Even though it’s Texas, the winter doldrums still strike. Nature is mostly brown and/or dead. The eyes ache for color and the mind seeks inspiration. I have the solution! Go to the New Beginnings art exhibit in Lewisville, Texas.
The Visual Art League of Lewisville just celebrated the opening reception for New Beginnings on Saturday, January 8th at the Grand Theater. The excitement of seeing fresh new art on display rejuvenates the senses.
I have three art pieces on display.
Title: Life Anew
Artist’s Statement: From this hatching egg springs life anew, joy, forgiveness and energy. Energy because it takes effort to pursue goals and ambitions. Forgiveness because no one is perfect among us. Joy because it makes life richer and more fulfilling.
I intentionally left one paper blank. What word would you choose?
Behind the scenes details: I purchased the unusual handmade red paper in Mexico a few years ago. I’m glad I was able to put it to use.
Title: Anticipation
Artist’s Statement: There’s a sense of anticipation and joy when opening a brand-new box of crayons (or paints, stains, clay, etc). Creativity is waiting at the doorstep of your mind, waiting to be unfurled upon the world in the form of a new art piece.
Behind the scenes details: I learned a lot by observing the work of photographers and stylists from my previous life. The stylists would painstakingly arrange every object in a set. I thought of them as I carefully rotated each crayon and pulled each row so it was pulled out evenly. And it paid off. Read on for details.
My art made the “Judge’s Notables” selection!
Title: Become
Artist’s Statement: Sometimes when I return home at the end of the day, I find myself saying these simple words, “Lord, help me become…”
The sentence is half finished because I don’t know my next journey. I think many of us experience similar feelings of doubt, uncertainty or even discouragement.
The words are written on a weathered piece of metal that is shaped like a tombstone among “flowers.” Unlike a traditional tombstone, however, the words imply the future.
The ribbon is draped so that it reaches up to the butterfly. The butterfly is symbolic for what one is to “become.”
Behind the scenes details: I used an old resistor from Tore’s dad, a machine embroidered butterfly from my collection and the vertical piece of metal is used to hang a curtain rod. The wood base is cut from my tree.
I think the most enjoyable part was seeing my little assemblage art on display under an acrylic case. It was a bonus to see someone taking a moment to look at it!
Hope to see you at the Lewisville Grand!
Exhibit Dates: January 8 – Feb 5, 2022
Location: Grand Theater in Lewisville, Texas
Want to become more involved? Become a member of the VAL! All skill levels of artists are welcome! For more information visit the Visual Art League of Lewisville. Tell them Denise sent you!
Don’t live nearby? Google “Visual Art League” in your area. You may be surprised to learn there are groups everywhere.
Is there an art piece among my work that you must have? All are for sale and they’d be the perfect addition to your home.
big bertha's adventures 
Love this and love that art piece!
Thank you! It all came together by the skin of my teeth! Deadlines come fast. 🙂