10.10.2007
Artober features best of local talent
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Penny Overcash took Best in Show. |
With everything from traditional landscapes to a sketch of Mariah Carey, Mooresville’s Artober features an eclectic display of works.
At the opening Saturday night, guests mingled, sipped wine and listened to the tunes of “The Coffeehouse Gang,” a local band, as they admired the works of the 200 guild members. Several purchased paintings, as well.
Artist Cheri Simmons won honorable mention at the show.
“It’s the first award I’ve ever won,” Simmons said with a grin. Her winning piece, an oil painting entitled “Rock Valley Road,” was one of the works that had already sold.
“It’s exciting to sell a piece,” she added. “It makes you feel validated as an artist to know someone else loves your creation as much as you do.”
Pat McGuire, organizer for Artober, was surprised at the wonderful turnout for the event’s opening night.
“I’m just thrilled to death,” she said. “This is the biggest show we’ve ever mounted and it’s a very successful show.”
All forms of art — including oil, ceramic and pencil — were accepted for the contest portion of the show.
The overall Best in Show award went to Penny Overcash, who had only been a member of the Guild for a month. Her ceramic “Styled Clematis #3” was one of four of her submitted pieces for Artober.
“My inspiration came from Haekel, who has beautiful microscopic books on plants,” she said. “I love nature because of its imagery and patterning.”
One of the founding members of the guild, Leonard Ham, was also on hand for the show.
“In 1958, our first meeting was at the First National Bank across the street,” he said of the Guild’s beginnings. “I marvel at what it’s become, from our pioneer effort to over 200 members.”
Ham is one of three remaining members who are still living.
“I wish the original members of the Guild could see it now,” he said, looking around at the building full art and art lovers.
Ham thought about it, and then changed his mind. “Well, actually, I guess they are looking down on us tonight,” he said, nodding.
WANT TO GO?
The Artober exhibit will be on display until Oct. 27 at the Mooresville Artist Guild, 103 W. Center Ave. Call 704-663-6661 for more information.