As always, this event is free and open to everyone, and refreshments will be provided by Gaines Group Architects.
September 4th from 5:00-7:00 PM
Series Name: BFE: Best Friend Energy – Featuring Your Local Paws
Medium: Linocut Block Prints
Artist Statement: “This collection, titled “BFE: Best Friend Energy” features block prints of local adoptable pets. These future “best friends” are currently at Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA awaiting adoption. Each print originates from carefully carved linoleum blocks. The intention in each carving matches my intention in helping them find their new best friend. I chose each subject carefully, choosing those with a little more difficulty in getting adopted such as those with longer stays, elderly pets, and pets with disabilities, in hopes of increasing their chances to get adopted. I focused on capturing the character of each of them through their spirited poses and facial expressions. I believe that no matter what, they are each deserving of a loving home and a new best friend.”
Artist Bio: Throughout my life I’ve always had a strong bond with animals and my family had household pets my entire childhood. I loved having so many pets growing up and it would feel like something was missing if I visited friends and family that did not have pets. My significant other and I have two cats, and a dog, two of which are from the RHSPCA, and I can’t imagine our world without them. They bring so much joy and happiness to our home.
In addition to my love of animals, I grew up with a love for art. I attended many art camps as a child and took many art classes. My specialty has been in 3D art, specifically pottery. The ability to sculpt and shape a material into something entirely different has always fascinated me. I found pottery to be the most instinctive form of art for me to express my creations until recently. When I was in high school, I took a 2D art class where I first learned how to carve lino prints. I added that skill to my repertoire and only decided to delve deeper within the last year. This past year I began feeling encumbered by pottery and started looking for other forms of art to express myself. That’s when I rediscovered linocuts. I saw it as the perfect combination of 3D and 2D art. You take a 3D linoleum block and carve away at it to reveal something new. The result is this deep, gestural form in a block. This block then gets printed and translated into 2D. Seeing the final block print reveal its 2D form is such a magical feeling.
When it was time to choose my art show theme, it was clear to me that the only thing that could make that 2D reveal even more magical was to put it toward a good cause. That’s where my love for animals and art came together to make this show. All proceeds from this art show will go to the RHSPCA. So please come show your support and feel the Best Friend Energy!
*Special Note: Staff from RHSPCA will be present here at the Depot for our First Friday opening to answer any questions and provide more information about their services and any future “best friends!”
*Accessibility Note: This building was previously restored from a fire. The elevator shaft is currently not functioning and there is an absence of ramps in the space. Because the show is on the 2nd floor, this may pose an issue for those who have mobility challenges. We are aware of this need and we apologize greatly if this changes your ability to attend.
This event is free and open to everyone. Snacks and refreshments will be served and we look forward to seeing you there!
Each month we host a new artist in our building’s 2nd floor gallery at the Chesapeake Western Depot at 141 W. Bruce St. (second floor entrance is on Chesapeake). Artwork will remain on exhibit through the month. Come view the show anytime and get a tour of the Depot!
