"Embrace" Roger Hutchison's Artwork

Artwork is in acrylics on Canvas

by Roger Hutchison of Columbia, SC

"Embrace" c 2008 Roger Hutchison

I had the opportunity to meet Roger just recently. He absolutely loves doing art and is very passionate about working with his hands and found objects. He has a warm personality and you can tell not only does he love art but he really cares about people. Roger is a newcomer to the art scene yet he has made wonderful strides and taking Columbia by storm with his hand painted brightly colored canvases. Roger has quickly become one of the top selling artists in Columbia, SC. I will be interviewing Roger soon so you can all hear about his wonderful adventures in the Columbia art world and more about the man behind the art.

Happy new year!

January 10 2009 Concert with Dance

SC Philharmonic and VISTA Ballroom

In Concert Together,

January 10 , 2009

@ The Koger Center For The Arts.

For Tickets Please Call

Capitol Ticket Office: 803-251-2222

Preview of Interview with Barbie Mathis

Barbie Mathis is by far one of the top selling Columbia SC artists. She is also very well liked and respected in the art community. Everyone admires Barbie's work. She has a gentle understated way about her that draws people to her and her art. Her art is very detailed and often features beautifully rendered flowers. People have asked me if Barbie's art is done with colored pencil. I have specifically asked Barbie and this group are all watercolors. On occasion she does do landscapes in oil.

Recently; I had the opportunity to interview Barbie. Watch my blog this week as I will be posting it soon. Happy New Year!!!

Barbie Mathis: Enlightened Eloquence

Watercolor by Barbie Mathis "Enlightened Eloquence" c 2008.

MUSIC: Fallen Kings Headliners Jan 2, 2009

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=321967166

Fallen Kings to perform at Headliners Jan 2, 2009. Celebrate the return reunion of former band members from the 90's in an all new group with a new drummer. They have a great sound and they are as yet unsigned; but with this sound; they should land a contract soon... given the right support locally and the talent to network; these guys will be national headliners! Come out and show your support for our local musicians. They have created new songs and you can listen to them or buy the single at myspace. Click above link. Take a listen on http://www.myspace.com/ search Fallen Kings if the above link isn't live on your screen.
Request line at 93.5 FM Radio!

Painting by Barbie Mathis

"Three in a Row" a watercolor c2008 by Barbie Mathis

Amazing Art Sales in this Economy

Columbia, SC. Recently, two artists have proven economy doesn't matter when you have art that has mass appeal and a personality combined with talent, determination and faith. Barbie Mathis of Lexington, SC has single handedly sold 14 originals, had numerous consignments and sold several prints all in the past 4 weeks. These sales were all made at the Sand Hills Village Gallery in the former Bombay Company Store, in Columbia, SC. This has made Barbie the highest selling artist at Sandhills. Barbie's paintings are highly detailed flowers ranging from photo realistic roses to irises with a minimalist background. They are stunning and I think what captures people's attention is the crisp spring feel and everyone loves flowers. Barbie's work can be seen at SandHills Village Gallery.

Then there is Paintings by Roger; featuring the artwork of Roger Hutchison. He is currently having a show at Frame of Mind on Main St in Columbia SC. On his opening night ten pieces sold and I have heard several more have sold since then. Rogers work is bright, eye catching and takes you to a place of playful freedom. I can understand the appeal as I am also attracted to Roger's artwork. He does all his acrylics without brushes. He actually uses his hands to hand paint the canvases in bright colors with some geometric qualities. You can still see Rogers work at Frame of Mind until January 8, 2009.

What is so amazing about Barbie and Roger's sales is that prior to this month as a professional artist in Columbia SC for well over a decade; I had never heard of any artist in Columbia having this kind of sales and to hear of two in one month in a bad economy really makes me stand up take notice. My hat goes off to both of them. Congratulations Barbie and Congratulations Roger!!! Great job! Watch ARTSAILS1 Blog for interviews with Barbie Mathis and an interview with Roger Hutchison and more visuals of their work.

*

NOTE: Photo of Barbie Mathis Artist at Sandhills Village in the NE section of Columbia, SC. *

Arts Action Fund Newsletter

The Tapestry of Life by Jean Bourque
a fiberart mixed media assemblage

Are you an Art Lover? Are you an Advocate for the Arts?
Do you do whatever you can to show your support for the arts? Now is the time to take Action! Here is an Arts Action Fund newsletter. Recently US funding for the arts had been cut at the National level which has had a ripple effect in SC and locally in Columbia.

Artists, art lovers, art buyers, art museum attendees, museum staff, musicians, painters, poets, writers, dancers it has effected all of us.
Here is... the news with a ray of hope:

"Dear Jean;
As your voice on the national stage, the Americans for the Arts Action Fund advocates for the arts and arts education policies that affect all of us. Now, as a new administration prepares to take office, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to ensure that the arts prosper for generations to come.

Join the Arts Action Fund as an Arts Advocate, and make your voice heard. It’s free and easy!Our members made support of the arts an important part of this historic election—and that work is now coming to life in the presidential transition. In a recent interview on Meet the Press, President-elect Obama discussed his plans to make an impact through arts and culture at the White House, saying that he is "thinking about the diversity of our culture and inviting jazz musicians and classical musicians and poetry readings in the White House so that, once again, we appreciate this incredible tapestry that's America." We’ve made amazing strides, but our most important opportunities are still ahead of us. Now is the time to send the message that we expect the new administration to enact arts-friendly policies as part of their sweeping economic and education plans. Add your name to thousands of others who have gone on the record with their support, and play your part for the arts! As an Arts Advocate, you’ll receive:• Coaching, tips, and easy-to-use tools to effectively voice your support for arts issues;• The email edition of Arts Action News, which provides the most up-to-date information on shaping arts advocacy;• Special alerts when your participation can make a critical difference on an urgent vote;• Members-only reports like our just-released 2008 Election Impact on the Arts (click here to download), our biennial Candidate Arts Survey, and our Congressional Arts Report Card.

You will also be eligible to participate in and contribute to the members-only Arts Action Fund Political Action Committee (PAC), dedicated exclusively to electing pro-arts federal candidates. Just look at the results of this last election cycle to see the difference this support can make! By becoming an Advocate Member of Americans for the Arts, you can help nourish the creativity and innovation that makes our nation thrive. Become an Arts Advocate today!

Sincerely,

Robert Lynch
President & CEO
Arts Action Fund

Call for Performing Talent; New Venue Columbia SC

A new opportunity to showcase your talent...
on Main Street USA.... Columbia, SC

Fresh new business with a big city flavor....
Looking for local talent; musicians, singers, and spoken word artists...

Venue will be smoke free and well lit. Venue anticipates start up mid January.

Contact ARTSAILS1 for email sign up or to sign up contact info for your fave group or performer. More details to follow in January.

Do you want to be on Dancing with the Stars?

Columbia and Greenville...Here is your chance to learn some great moves and or watch some great moves....

Tango Dreams in the Vista ...

has a website now at www.tangodreams.net

Would you like a night in Buenos Aires

I know I would...

Coming to Greenville, SC in Feb.

Want to learn to Dance....Really Dance

Find out more at Tango Dreams

Pottery by Paul Moore at Hart Gallery

Hart Gallery of Fine Art

6729 Two Notch Rd. Columbia SC

***

Photograph: Pottery by Paul Moore. Photo by Jean Ehler.

Need Two or more Strong People for Jan-Mar 2009

I need two strong people willing to work some overnights and or super early morning (starting at 2, 3 or 4AM) in grocery stores assisting with changing out huge coffee displays including grinder and bulk coffee. Hours would depend on each store's management team.

Must be strong and able to lift heavy equipment that is tall. Must be in good health and have good back, knees and hands. Must be organized, good with paperwork and follow up, able to schedule with store managers, have a cell phone, be good with tools, have a computer, an email account and be able to travel throughout SC. This is a temporary job. Could be a couple that enjoys working together or two people that know each other and want to work as a team. Will also take applications from individuals that are interested and add you to crews or as a back up person.

Would be great for college students that have a light course load and are very fit, dependable and willing to work. Great job to pay off those holiday bills. Also good for someone that has been out of work or on a commission job and wants to earn some income while looking for their fulltime position or working part time elsewhere. This job will pay $10. an hour; part time temporary position; as needed; with less than 40 hours each week.

If you are interested and have a Drivers License, an insuranced car, citizenship and want to work temporarily; please contact Jeanee immediately at artsails1@gmail.com. Please provide your contact information and any experience you may have related to this type of work. If you have any grocery or reset merchandiser experience please send your resume as an attachment. Please send two business or academic references.

This is a temporary job. When the coffee sets are completed statewide we cannot guarantee a position with the company. We work in the finest chain of grocery stores around SC.
Thank you.

Call to Artists - A Singular Creation Website

A Singular Creation (ASC) 3rd Annual Art Competition; open to artists worldwide, working in any media, excluding video. Large cash prizes and publication awards - as well as promote all artists heavily on site. All artists' portfolios will remain on permanently. The competition will be juried by ASC founder, along with a small panel of ASC judges.
Guidelines:
The fee for entry is $25 for up to 15 images. The deadline for submission is February 28, 2009.
Winners will be notified by March 15, 2009. Exhibition will begin on March 16, 2009.
Prizes
We will be awarding Large Cash Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. The way it will work is somewhat unique. For every $25 entry, $15 will be set aside for prize money. That means for every 100 participants, we will award $1500 in cash. If we get 200 participants, we will award $3000 in cash. The breakdown of the prize money will be as follows:
1st Place: 50% of the total prize money
2nd Place: 33.33% of the total prize money
3rd Place: 16.67% of the total prize money
Publication Awards: Nine (9) artists will be awarded a display in the critically acclaimed periodical, New American Paintings.
How To Enter
Submit Payment You can make your payment by clicking one of the payment options on their website; Google or PayPal payments. You must register at their community forum; Here is the link to register. If you are already a registered member skip to the next step. If you are having trouble registering for any reason, email Joe Barrouk at singular@asingularcreation.com. He will create an account for you. After you have registered; email Joe Barrouk at singular@asingularcreation.com. In the email, provide Your full name; The username you chose during registration. They will set up your contest album for you. You will get a verification email letting you know that you have been added to the Art Contest - Your Name usergroup on A Singular Creation. Once you receive that email, you can then start uploading your images. Please allow up to 2 days, as this is a manual process. You are now ready to start uploading your images. We have created an album for you with your name that only you can access. Log into the gallery here and then follow the instructions below. Start by clicking the link that says: "UPLOAD FILE". (image 1 below) Next, select the correct album to place your image. Make sure that you select the 3rd Annual Competition album with your name. (image 2 below)
Then, browse your computer for files. (images 3 and 4 below) Finally, add the image details in the appropriate fields. Title and Medium are mandatory. Everything else is optional. Click "Upload File". (image 5 below) Click on the images below for a demo.

Start by clicking the link that says: "UPLOAD FILE".
Next, select the album that you want to place the image. Make sure that you select the 3rd Annual Competition album with your name. Then, browse your computer for files.
Select the image you want to upload. Finally, add the image details in the appropriate fields. Title and Medium are mandatory. Everything else is optional. Click "Upload File".
Note: At any time, you can view or edit your images. Follow this link and select the album with your name. If for any reason, you are having trouble uploading your images, please email Joe Barrouk at singular@asingularcreation.com for assistance.
Submission Guidelines
Participants can submit up to 15 images.
Images are not to exceed 1024KB in size or 2048 pixels width or height.
Images must be in jpg or tiff format.
Images must have the title and medium provided.
Terms and Conditions
Entries must be submitted by the original artist or photographer. You must be the sole owner of the copyright of the image you submit. Images must be appropriate for public display. Obscene, pornographic, disturbing or otherwise inappropriate photos will be removed from the contest without warning. A Singular Creation has sole discretion as to what constitutes inappropriate content. All participating artists retain full copyrights of their images. A Singular Creation will not profit by your images in any way. However, by submitting an image to this competition, you give us the right to display the image anywhere within the A Singular Creation domain or for promotional purposes and to resize, convert and recompress the photo for viewing convenience and/or faster loading.

New Photographic Print by Jean Bourque

FIVE POINTS AT NIGHT

by Jean Bourque c 2008

Prints now available * Assorted Sizes*

Framed and unframed Print can be seen at Hart Gallery Opening Thursday Dec. 11, 2008 from 5-8 pm. The gallery address is at 6729 Two Notch Rd. Columbia, SC. Email for driving directions. For purchasing information: contact the artist by email or by comment on the site here. Thanks.

Call for Artists for Dec. 19th

This just in; on my FaceBook email box today... this is verbatim...

Hi Jean,

Glenforest is having the Masters Singers again Dec 19 and were wondering if any artists would like to come again like last year. Sorry it's such short notice, but we have a lot of staff changeover since last year. If interested, call the school and ask for Linda (not Linda Branham; Linda from Clemson)

Thanks!

Susan

For further info I have added:

Susan Lee; Art Instructor at Glenforest School in West Columbia, SC. Master Singers is the Palmetto Master Singers and they do a great performance at the school as a fundraiser. The event is on a Friday evening. Click on the Glenforest link to get their phone number and further info either as to be a participating artist or to attend the Palmetto Mastersingers performance or to come out and purchase last minute art gifts in the lobby of the school that Friday evening.

Hear the Talent Dec. 3rd 7:30 PM Columbia SC

2008-2009 Southern Exposure New Music Series season

Wednesday, on December 3rd, at 7:30 p.m. in

USC's School of Music Recital Hall

Featuring Phillip Bush

Located at 813 Assembly Street 2nd Floor in Columbia, SC
- next to the Koger Center - Admission is free.

Southern Exposure is especially pleased to feature the remarkable talents of Phillip Bush, an internationally renowned pianist and much sought-after chamber musician who performs around the world, but calls Columbia home. Since making his critically acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut with the London Sinfonietta (replacing an ailing Peter Serkin on short notice).

Mr. Bush has performed with the Houston Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Bargemusic, as well as members of the Emerson, Guarneri, Tokyo, Orion, and St. Lawrence string quartets, among many others.

Columbia's Got Talent; Come hear it!

Columbia Has Got Talent- Come See!!

The longer I live in Columbia, the more I realize how many talented people we have here. We have a very large visual arts community. I probably know over 500 visual artists just in Columbia. By visual I mean artists that paint, draw, sculpt, blow glass, make beads, do photography, graphic arts and design, altered books, fiber artists, wearable arts such as fashion design, home arts such as bowl turning, wood working, assemblage, wall hangings and quilts. We also have a large clay community.

Photograph "Five Points at Night" by Jean Bourque (prints available)

(Taken the night of Advertisers Bail Out)

I know there is the Gourd Art group, a design Group, a live drawing group and the Decorative Art group, not to mention at least 6 professional art associations with at least 50 members or more. I mean the sheer abundance of art here is amazing. This city should be known the world over for its art community. We have more artists here than anyone realizes I am sure of that! Now that I have really thought about this;I probably know closer to 1000 artists.

We have a great music diversity and range of talents; in Columbia at USC, at night spots and outdoor festivals with many bands, groups, soloists and performances all over the City. Just about any night during the week and of course weekends you can find live entertainment. We have poets that publicly preform every week like John Starino in at least 3 different venues that I know of. Go to Verseworks at the Art Bar or Open Mic at H20, Macs on Main, Jammin Java, and many more.

We have legendary musicians like Skipp Pearson performing weekly at Hunterer Gatherer playing the Sax every Thursday night. We have Jeff Liberty on harmonica and guitar singing the blues. That man can sing too. Both of them have been willing to work with new performers and help them get going. There's Danielle Howle playing guitar and singing. This is just to name a few. I mean Columbia has GOT talent. We have a huge artistic community here.

Theater: We have several great theaters such as Trustus is a great venue and sometimes they have alternative features and they are reasonably priced. We have three historic theaters as well as a huge Convention Center and so much more. The Workshop Theater, the Town Theater and much much more. Columbia's Visitors Bureau attracts visitors from all over the world.

Ballet: We have a world class ballet and several other ballet and dance companies. This town is bursting with Talent. You can find ballet and dance performances or take lessons any week in Columbia.

People say they don't know where to find out about what's going on; there should be someplace where all things could be posted. I agree. ARTSAILS1 is my volunteer effort to put out the info I know about. So if you have something for me to post; email me by clicking here at ARTSAILS1. If you applaud my effort; want to add this blog as a link to your site, have news to share or be added to the email list or make a purchase (art and photography is for sale) that would be wonderful as well.

Columbia has got Talent...in every area of the arts...think art, think Columbia!!!

History of Art Connections using the Internet

Okay; admittedly this is not a SC competition; but I can tell you; I was in an art show with Larry many years ago in Soho (NYC, USA) and I have the old 35mm camera pictures to prove it. This was when very few people were using the internet. We were kindred spirits as we pioneered our way through the web with our art. I even had a web site and it was at a time when that was unheard of among the local artists that I knew in SC. In fact, very few galleries outside of NY and Paris were on line at that time.

Larry and I have stayed friends and I was honored to be his very first featured artist when he opened his first gallery in the mid 90's called Period Gallery. He has since gone on to develop other galleries and this is one of them. Professor Larry Bradshaw had been with the University of Nebraska over 20 years as an Art professor. He literally knew and trained thousands of artists. Here I am with a Business Management degree and he asked me. So...indeed I was honored. In fact I still am.

So here is the latest competition:

Upstream People Gallery http://www.upstreampeoplegallery.com/
5607 Howard Street
Omaha, NE 68106-1257 U.S.A.

is pleased to announce the

“6th Annual Color: Bold/Subtle International
Juried Online Art Exhibiton”

February 1, 2009 - January 31, 2010
(12 month’s show and gallery representation for greater sales and exposure;
artists may exhibit and sale in other venues at the same time)
to apply send the following by Dec. 8, 2008 for early entry (postmark deadline)

•5 slides/CD (or jpegs/tiffs via email)
•List of works with: Name, Postal Address (& email),
Titles, Media, Sizes (HxWxD) & Prices
•Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope (if submitting via postal mail)
•$25 entry/jury/webmaster fee (add $2 using PayPal)

Cash Awards of Excellence, Special
Recognitions and Press Releases published worldwide
and sent to specially recognized artists’ newspaper(s).

NOTE: Several artists have had articles written in their newspaper(s).

Early entry notifications sent: December 15, 2008

Questions: shows@upstreampeoplegallery.com
Or you may download the prospectus at
http://www.upstreampeoplegallery.com/schedule/default.asp

Seven Oaks Art league Meets Tonite

DON'T FORGET!

SEVEN OAKS ART LEAGUE

NOVEMBER MEETING

WEDNESDAY

NOVEMBER 19TH

6:30 PM

Arts Commission Budget CUTS....FYI

Arts Commission Receives Mid-Year Budget Cut
The Arts Commission has received a 14.2 percent cut
to its FY2009 appropriation, totaling $508,548.
Because the agency began the year with a 2.7 percent reduction
from the previous year, the total reduction for FY2009
stands at 16.9 percent... read more >>

Art Reception Monday Nov. 17 at Trenholm Plaza

Trenholm Artists Holiday Market

Members of Trenholm Art Guild

Now offering

**

Limited Opportunity to view and purchase
original artwork by local TAG artists.
Mondays-Saturdays
November 17-December 23
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Opening Reception
Monday, November 17, 6-8 pm
Sip and Shop

**
Friday, November 28, 10 am - 6 pm
Friday, December 12, 10 am - 6 pm
**
Located in the former Oreck Vacuum Store at Trenholm Plaza
Forest Drive at Trenholm Plaza Home to Publix Supermarket

**
Special Sunday hours for last minute shopping -
Sunday, December 21, Noon - 4 pm.
**
See you there!

Membership Drive and Members Swap Art & Sale

Artists Round Table Art Swap and Sale Second Annual Holiday Event

2nd Annual Artists Round Table Christmas Sale, Social & Membership Drive

Join us for an evening of creative gift ideas, networking with artists & light refreshments at Columbia’s Ensor - Keenan House located at 801 Wildwood Avenue in the Eau Claire Community.

Thursday, December 4, 2008 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm

For more information about A.R.T. visitwww.theartistsroundtable.org

Artista Round Table Holiday Show Nov. 20th

Artists Round Table Members Exhibit
Vista Lights Thursday, November 20, 2008

1213 Lincoln Street 5:00pm - 10:00pm

The Members Exhibit will run Thursday through Sunday.
Friday: 12pm - 9pm & Saturday 12pm-9pm.

Please check our website www.theartistsroundtable.org

Phaup's Gallery of Fine Art Thur Dec11 from 5-8PM

Top Row: Oil Paintings by Jean Ehler and Denby Singley Gorman

Next row: Photography by Sandra Phaup;

and Midnight on the Saluda by Jean Bourque

One of Columbia's newest galleries is hosting their first Holiday Market Sale and having a Grand Opening to introduce "Phaup's Gallery of Fine Arts" to Columbia SC holiday shoppers, art buyers and party goers. It will be held from 5-8PM on Thursday Dec. 11th. It will be like an "After Hours" event; similar to those sponsored by the Chamber however this is sponsored by Sandra and Bud Phaup and hosted by the actual artists. We will have a lively spirited group featuring many new art works and little gifts as well as large. We are all a friendly bunch so come on by and have a good time. We look forward to seeing you that Thursday night Dec. 11, 2008 anytime.

If you cannot make it to the reception you can come to NE Columbia; drop in anytime the gallery will be open from 10-6 Mon thru Sat. We are within 2 blocks of the Columbia Mall; not far from I20; I26 and I77. It's easy to get to and well worth the trip. Many of the artists will be selling small works, photography, paintings, pottery as well as prints and greeting cards. We have modern, contemporary, and traditional paintings. The artists will be there and it would be a great time to meet them. Have you been wanting something special for that house with the empty walls? Do you have someone that is impossible to buy a gift for? Let us help you out.This season for our Holiday Market and Grand Opening reception we will have ornaments hand created by our artists as a fundraiser to benefit the gallery and to make it's official debut into the art world.

My heartfelt thanks to our founders; Sandra and Bud. It has been very generous of the Phaup's to support the artists in this way. The Phaup's truly have the Holiday Spirit; not just this year; but every year. Thank you Sandra and Bud!

Yours truly;

Jean Bourque

http://www.jeanbourque.com/

The Charleston Arts Coalition

This information was found on FACEBOOK...

The Charleston Arts Coalition; their slogan is:

create. sustain. unite.

The CAC is a newly established Charleston based arts group, working for a broad public understanding of, and appreciation for, the positive impact the arts play in enriching cultural, economic, and intellectual life in our community. The CAC provides a network of arts information and resources, which connects all sectors of the community life, and is accessible to the general public. The CAC promotes and helps to create avenues to foster a dynamic arts enviroment by: broadening public access, appreciation, participation, and education in the arts and culture of the area. Mission Statement: The Charleston Arts Coalition aspires to unite, enhance, and sustain the greater Charleston Arts Community.
Website:
http://www.charlestonartscoalition.com
Location:
Charleston, SC

Frida Kahlo fans shop at Belladonna's

One of my favorite paintings of all time is the one I did called "Frida Excitement". It is a 3 ft x 2ft framed art piece with a surrealistic flair. In the oil painting besides a picture of Frida, I incorporated things that were important to the artist. She loved small animals and was known to have numerous chihuahuas and one is represented in the painting along with a jukebox and a Central American plant native to Mexico.

It is now on display and for sale at Belladonna's on Pendelton St. just below Cornell Arms. If you get a chance to see it; please stop by. "Frida Excitement" will only be there until Dec. 15th. This painting had previously shown at Noonah's on Gervais.


ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Jean Bourque is a visual artist and writer residing in Columbia SC. She is a member of Trenholm Art Guild, Back Porch Painters and American Writers and Artists Institute. She has previously been published in Carolina Arts and AveNews.

Jean has started a new blog in addition to artsails1. This will allow her to write about health, nutrition, healing, aging, longevity, supplements, experiences as a consumer, various products; going green, teaching art to the elderly and dementia sufferer and other interesting tidbits of life.
She currently is attending various online and evening courses studying herbs, going green, artistic brain fuel, nutritional supports, sound, crystal, energy and aroma therapy, holistic healing, and will become a certified natural health consultant upon completion.

Look for her newest blog at: http://alove4health.blogspot.com/

Wishing you all great health, healing energy, peace and love!

Artsy Happenings In Columbia SC Nov & Dec 08

HOLIDAY SEASON ART EVENTS

So much is happening in the art community this fall it's hard to keep up with it all even for the ARTSAILS1 Blog.

The painting here is loaded with holiday colors and even a touch of snow for the complete effect. "Healing" is a mixed media texturized painting on a 20x16 canvas; featuring, burgundy, gold, and green. I was on a second story loft painting with a great friend at her Mountain home in front of floor to ceiling windows with a breathtaking panorama view overlooking the NC mountains. "Healing" by Jean Bourque c 2008 for purchase inquiries click here.

The Trenholm Art Guild will host a Holiday Art Market from Nov. 17 to Dec. 23, 2008. The Opening reception will be Monday evening Nov. 17th 6-8 PM at 18 Trenholm Plaza Columbia. (in the former Oreck store). The gallery hours will be 10-6 Mon thru Sat. We will have a special Sunday opening on Sunday Dec. 21st from noon to six pm. Come on out and show your support for our Art League and our artists. TAG is Columbia's longest running art league the Trenholm Artists Guild. We meet once a month ; our next meeting is Nov. 10th.

The Back Porch Painters Gallery will be open on a daily basis throughout the months of Nv and Dec. They will be hosting a special holiday event with refreshments and new art for your holiday gift giving. If you are a member of Back Porch Painters Art Studio; we have our next meeting on Thursday Nov. 6th. This will be one of the most important meetings of the year; we will discuss the Holiday plans and gallery coverage. Please check back with ARTSAILS1 blog for details of upcoming events with the Gallery at BPP on Two Notch Rd. just down from Columbia Mall near "Fine's Philly Cheese Steak" restaurant. Yours truly is one of the artists in this showcase.

Columbia Museum of Art Holiday Sale Nov 14

It is a busy season for artists without a doubt. We can all take a break; well except for those working this market; and go to the Art Museum Friday Nov. 14 for the Museum Shop Artisans’ Fair and Sale from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Add excitement and art to the holiday season with unusual one of a kind gifts that inspire creativity and make our homes and lives more interesting. The Art Museum will provide Free gift wrapping.

Artists showing and selling their creations are John Benton, Clay Burnette, Anne Cimballa, Melissa Crook, Karen Dickey, Mary Anne Ehasz, Steve Harrell, Patty Hatch, Jennifer Hill, Toni Kelly, Alicia Leeke, Erin-Margaret Moize, Paul Moore, Bohumila Owensby, David Russell, Cindy Saad, Sabine Snykers.

There is no admission fee for the Holiday Market; however refreshments will be available and regular admission applies for entry in Museum galleries. For details phone 803.343.2159

Buried Here within the Mound Fri Oct 24

On October 24rd, 6:30-9 PM the Arts Institute will present Buried Here Within the Mound, an interdisciplinary event that will focus on the craft of Catawba potters (including the work of Catawba potter Monty “Hawk” Branham) and the music and poetry of world acclaimed Native-American poet, Joy Harjo. Joy Harjo will read her poetry and Monty Branham will give a brief presentation on his exhibited pottery. The evening will include a light reception and is free and open to the public. Featuring Poetry and Pottery at the Columbia Museum of Art.

Interview with International Artist - Rachel Parker

International Artist Rachel Parker

We are very happy to showcase the talents of Rachel Parker international artist. Rachel is one of South Carolina's best selling artists.

Artsails 1 asks Rachel; please tell us about your art career and the type of art you do.

I paint mostly watercolors, although I'll occasionally dabble with acrylics and oils. Watercolor is my passion though. I was very excited to see Dean Mitchell, a talented watercolor artist, featured on the front of American Art Collector this month!

We at Artsails1 have noticed you often paint cats; tell us what inspires you about cats?

I just love capturing the living essence of things on paper. I also love to paint people and other animals. I think it's the eyes, or the unique expressions of each subject that intrigues me. When the subject comes alive on the paper, then I know I've met my goal for that work.

Did you major in art in college and if so where did you attend. If not; who have you studied with?

I've never studied formally. I did a two day workshop with Tom Lynch once. Most of my art education has come from lots and lots of reading art books and experimenting.

Charleston White Horse by Rachel Parker

Are there any artists that you would say played a major role either in mentoring you or in inspiring and shaping your career?

The most influential artist for me was probably my mother, Gretchen Parker. Without her example, I don't think I would have ever realized I could paint. I used to watch her paint when I was very young, and tag along to art lessons.

How have you handled the marketing of your art; getting in shows, selling art, creating a web presence?
I haven't done a lot of things outside of the web. I suppose I'm too lazy to frame everything, haul it to a show, only to have one thing sold after all that investment. The internet is an amazing venue for my work. I've met people all over the world through my art. I even met a lady online through an art connection and we ended up going on two trips together to Costa Rica and Italy. She lives in Switzerland. I sell my art mostly on EBay and recently I've discovered Etsy, which is a wonderful community of likeminded creatives who are very passionate about their work. It's been invigorating for me to try new places on the internet and discover the fresh visions of new communities.

What websites do you have your art on, now? Etsy, EBay, Rachels Studio, cafepress.com

What advice would you give to our readers on selling art on the Internet?

It can definitely pay off if you invest time and energy into it and you have something people WANT to buy. That's the trick, having something people want to buy. The other part is doing a lot of social networking, keeping new things on your site, and marketing through your blog. The more energy I put into my work, whether it is painting, social networking on the web, or blogging, the more I sell. Another important tool I've found is to have a Yahoo group for my collectors to join. Every time I create a new painting, have a new painting, or just want to share progress on a painting, I post it to my group. Anyone can join by going to http://www.rachelsstudio.com/ and click on Join my group.

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you, your art, your web presence, or your techniques that you would like to share?

I really think the Internet is the wave of the future for artists like me. The potential of the web is unlimited! It's also a great way to meet interesting people. I also met a wonderful artist in China and helped him get on eBay. He was able to buy a car after he doubled his income selling his art online! Rachel that is a great story.

Do you have another career in addition to being an artist?

I work as a school social worker. My art and my social work mutually subsidize each other!

Rachel is there anything else you would like people to know about you?

I also recently got engaged and will get married June 21, 2009. We are going to China for our honeymoon and I can't wait!

Congratulations, I am sure a honeymoon in China will be very inspiring; we can't wait to see the results!

In summary; Rachel Parker is a very talented artist and Internet entrepreneur; we hope that you will enjoy looking at her websites and if you would like any further information on Rachel Parker's artwork you may contact her directly via email at: R1achel@yahoo.com NOTE: That's a one after the r on Rachel's email. All paintings on this page were created by Rachel Parker; please contact her directly if you are interested in purchasing a print or original of her work. Thank you.

Editor: Artsails1 writer: Jean Bourque

Art Fun Fest with Belladonna's this Sat. 10/25

BELLADONNA’S JUBILEE A FUN FALL FAMILY FESTIVAL

REFLEXOLOGY, TAROT READINGS, REIKI SESSIONS, TUNING FORK SESSIONS, HANDMADE JEWELRY, ESSENTIAL OILS, VOICE REMAPPING, GIFTS FOR THE UPCOMING HOLIDAY SEASON, REFRESHMENTS, PRIZES, CANDY, TRICK OR TREATING, BOBBING FOR APPLES, FACE PAINTING, PIN THE NOSE ON THE PUMPKIN, PINATA FUN AND MUCH MORE!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25TH FROM 10AM TO 4PM
AT THE UNITARIAN CHURCH IN SHANDON
ADMISSION IS $6, CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE!!!
BRING TWO CANNED GOODS FOR HARVEST HOPE FOOD BANK AND RECEIVE $1 OFF ADMISSION! COSTUMES STRONGLY ENCOURAGED!

John Tudor will be performing magic throughout the day from 1pm-3pm on a roaming basis. Pets Inc. will be there hosting a pet costume contest from 3-4pm, and doing microchip registration for $25 which is an $85 value, and a GREAT deal.Tarot readers will be Saundra Saundra, Jessica Peach, Brian Barr and Ryan Kern. Palm Reader is Raman.William and Marilu Pena doing energies of enlightenment.Paige Peters will be joining us for healing using tuning forks. Robin Adell will offer Reiki services. Chimene Green will be there doing reflexology.
Voice Remapping and Essential Oils with Toni Van Gils. Rebecca Jacobson will be there educating people about the groups she offers for women's healing. Teri Teed is a local artist and photographer, and she will be showing her work at the festival. Christine Adair will be featuring her handmade jewelry. Hans will be there with wooden wands, bowls, and other magical offerings. Lori Baker will be there with AveNews.
CALL JEN AT BELLADONNAS 765-0450 FOR MORE DETAILS!

Call to Artists from the Mail bag

Dear Artist,

In September 2008, Light the Way with Music and Art, a volunteer fund-raising effort to benefit Columbia’s Homeless Transition Center, began its artistic series with a piano recital by Marina Lomazov. The series is co-sponsored by The Midlands Interfaith Homeless Action Council (MIHAC) and will continue through May.

In March 2009, HoFP will join with MIHAC to sponsor a Light the Way Art Benefit, and this is where we hope you will want to be involved. A group of Columbia artists are being invited to display one or two pieces of their work for sale at House of Frames & Painting, 2828 Devine Street on the evening of Thursday, March 5, from 6:00-9:00. Each artist will retain 50% of sales. The other 50% will go to MIHAC to support the Knight Foundation $5 million challenge grant for the Center. We are looking for small to moderate size work. Space in the gallery is limited and we plan to have 50 to 75 artists participating. Pieces should be lively, saleable, and priced between $150-$1000. Buyers will take their purchases that evening. Any unsold work will need to be picked up the next day. (Arrangements may be made if you are unable to attend the event, etc.)

To date artists participating in the Art Benefit are Laura Spong, David Yaghjian, Ellen Yaghjian, Heidi Darr-Hope, Candy Waites and Regina Moody. We invite you to add your name to this growing list by indicating your interest to either of the two emails listed below. Please respond by November 21 with your wish to accept or decline. We will be back in touch with a full list of participants and a form regarding your work(s) offered for sale.
With sincere thanks,
David & Ellen Yaghjian dyaghjian@sc.rr.com
Regina Moody rbmoody@sc.rr.com

The Love of Palm Trees

Like many of you; I love palm trees and palmetto trees. There are so many varieties and they are my favorite photographic subject. Nature has provided us with such beauty to be thankful for everyday.

Photo by Jean Bourque

Eyelash Cabaret Ilona Royce Smithkin in SC 10/21

A can't miss performance at the Eyelash Cabaret will be performed by Ilona Royce Smithkin
Tuesday evening Oct 21st at The Black Creek Arts Council 116 College St. Hartsville SC, home of Coker College. The show starts at 7 PM. There is a small cover charge.

Have you Made an Art Book? Get it Published

Hol Art Books is seeking submissions. We're looking for great writing on visual art from venturesome authors, editors and readers alike. Submit a project book or join a publishing team today. At Hol, publishing is a collaborative process. You submit a project, select your publishing team, and prepare your book for publication. When your book passes review, Hol prints it, markets it, and gets it onto the shelves. And with a percentage of sales, everyone -- you, your team, and Hol -- gets paid as the book sells. Find out more here, we'd love to work with you.

Call for Artists; Nov 1 Art Show; Columbia SC

Spring Valley Presbyterian Church will have their annual bazaar on Saturday, November 1, 2008, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. The church is located at 125 Sparkleberry Lane . Artists are invited to participate in the art show and sale. no advance fee; pay just 15% of Sales. Delivery time: Friday, Oct. 31, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm. Art must be framed or canvas wrapped. SVPC reserves the right to reject any works of art that it finds unsuitable for display.
QUANTITY: Artists may submit up to 5 pieces.
TITLES: Each art piece should be labeled with the following information: Title, Artist, & Sale Price.
ART SALES: Artist's share of sales will be paid the week following the Bazaar.

For more information: Dianne Meadow (803) 788-1781 or
Email dmeadow@earthlink.net

SCAD Atlanta seeks fulltime Faculty

SCAD - Atlanta seeks candidates for a full-time faculty position in arts administration. Qualified candidates should have the terminal degree or its equivalent in arts administration or a related field. TO APPLY: Please mail cover letter, curriculum vitae, samples of own and student's work (if applicable), and an unofficial copy of the transcript showing your highest degree to: scadfaculty@scad.edu Only complete packages will be considered. Although a deadline has not yet been established, interested applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Ingrid Carson Art Class in Irmo SC

Oil Painting and Mixed Media Classes Offered in my home studio
207 Savannah Branch Trail, Irmo

Oil Painting:

Tuesday evening from 6-8, Oct 14, 21, and 28

Thursday Morning from 9:30 - 11:30, Oct. 9, 16, 23, & 30
Thursday Afternoon from 1:30 - 3:30, Oct. 9, 16, 23, & 30

One make-up date: Oct. 29th

Mixed Media Class

Friday Morning from 9:30 - 11:30, October 10, 17, 24, & 31.

Ingrid Carson
snoops@mindspring.com
(803) 749-9501

Rachel Parker Online Watercolor Class

Rachel Parker is offering a painting course entitled "How to Paint Your Pet inWatercolor - Anyone Can Do It! "The course will include:-Video Instructional Demonstrations-Email Critiques (You email Rachel a picture of your painting, and she'll give you helpful tips)-Written instructions in a blog format-Suggestions about where to go on the Internet to learn more about painting.

The course will be $50. You will also need art supplies. Rachel will giveyou a list of what you'll need when you start. As soon as 4 or more people sign up, we'll begin!

See her work at www.rachelsstudio.com

Dale Chihuly Abstract Glass Sculpture: Seaforms

Columbia Museum of Art Shows
Exhibition of Premier Glass Artist Dale Chihuly
Exhibition marks first of its kind in South Carolina

Columbia, SC – The Columbia Museum of Art brings the exhibition Dale Chihuly: Seaforms to South Carolina this fall. Opening on September 5 and running through November 30, Dale Chihuly: Seaforms includes approximately 35 glassworks and preliminary sketches from his Seaform series – colorful, undulating shell-like forms within forms, inspired by the artist’s love of the sea. Chihuly is widely recognized as the world's premier glass artist and has been the subject of many books, critical essays and PBS specials.
Chihuly’s Seaforms are reminiscent of sea creatures and shells, yet they are unpredictable abstract configurations with a transparency and colorful luminosity. Families of Seaforms are large vessels with smaller and smaller shapes nestled within them. The accompanying sketches give insight into the artist’s creative process, and are beautiful artworks on their own. Chihuly’s Seaforms were created over a 14-year period during the 1980s and ’90s.

Seattle glass artist Dale Chihuly revolutionized the Studio Glass movement by expanding its original notion of the solitary artist working in a studio, to the idea of collaborative teams with a division of labor within the creative process. His achievements as a powerhouse of innovation have influenced the world of contemporary craft, and his art has delighted people around the world.

Lake Murray Country Art Poster Competition

Calling all artists and graphic designers! The Taste of Lake Murray Planning Committee and Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board are seeking submissions for their first ever “Poster Artwork Contest” for the March 26, 2009 Taste of Lake Murray .
For an application contact amy@lakemurraycountry.com

Sun. Oct 5 Art Show with Ilona at the Back Porch

Art Show Sunday Oct. 5th

2-5:30 PM

Back Porch Painters Studio

at 6729 Two Notch Rd. Columbia, SC

is Proud to Present

The Internationally Known Artist... ILONA

Ilona Royce-Smithken

See and buy beautifully inspired art

The Back Porch Painters originally started meeting over 15 years ago on the back porch of Sandra Phaup's lakefront home; where Ilona came from NYC twice a year to teach us all how to paint with oils in impressionistic style on canvas. Over the years artists have come and gone and in the past few years Sandra had been wanting a place for the group to show their art and to share Ilona's vibrant personality and entertainment with more of the community than just our little group. (and the group at Dianne's on Devine, more about that later)

In 2007; this dream to show the work and introduce Ilona to more of the community became a reality when we had our first ever Art Show and reception at the Back Porch Studio. Naturally the Gallery and Studio adapted the name the Back Porch Painters. In addition to the painters several potters and sculptors began to rent the space to use their potters wheel and to work with clay. We quickly decided to adapt the name of the Gallery to be called the "Back Porch Studios".

Come out and meet one of the most interesting and entertaining people Columbia has ever known and see some great art too. BTW: for those that don't know; Ilona is the ETV Star of "Painting with Ilona" which aired as recently as a few years ago in the greater Columbia area. It had a run throughout the 70's and a little bit in the 80's. It may be available through the ETV archives if you want to learn more.

Keeping the paint flowing...
yours Jean Bourque
http://www.jeanbourque.com/

Palmetto Master Singers Perform Tonight Oct 3

Columbia SC... Saluda Shoals Park
On Friday, October 3, at 6:30 pm join us for The Palmetto Mastersingers in Concert
Bring a picnic and join us for an evening performance with South Carolina's Musical Ambassadors singing American classics, beach music and favorites from the "Rat Pack."
Presented by the Saluda Shoals Foundation and Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission in partnership with the Irmo Chamber of Commerce, Nickelodeon, Musician & Songwriters, Guild of South Carolina and 701 Center for Contemporary Art.
Normal Park Admission Applies!

Skate and Create Art Exhibition at 80808 Tonight

SKATE AND CREATE Second Annual Art Exhibition
Greetings! Please join us for the Second Annual SKATE and CREATE exhibition at Gallery 80808/Vista Studios, 808 Lady Street in the arts and cultural district known as the Vista!

OPENING RECEPTION: Friday, October 3 from 5 - 11
ADDITIONAL HOUSE: Saturday, October 4 from 11 - 7 and Sunday, October 5 from 1 - 5.
The exhibit is curated by Bluetile Skateshop and hosted by Gallery 80808/Vista Studio artist Susan Lenz. Proceeds from the sales will go to POUR IT NOW, a 501c3 organization advocating for skateboard parks throughout South Carolina.

Oct 11 and 12 San Francisco Painting Weekend

Michele Cassou Workshop Update
A Painting Weekend Workshop With Michele Cassou!
Saturday and Sunday Oct 11and 12! In San Francisco at the beautiful CCE Studio, 300 Chenery Street.Sat 10:00am - 6:00pm Sun 10:00am - 6:00pm
Enjoy the flow of your creativity by playing with lively colors!
Break creative blocks and free yourself!
Invent, risk and surprise yourself by watching what is unique in you come through!
To register call Barbara at: (415)333-9515 or email her at: thepaintingstudio@sbcglobal.net
CCE Studio, San Francisco. Saturday and Sunday Oct 11and 12. Both days go from 10am to 6pm. Fee : $350 Includes all materials included. Non residential.

website: www.michelecassou.com email: cassouart@aol.com phone: 415.459.4829

Tell them ARTSAILS1 BLOG told you about it
----------------------------------------

Saluda Shoals Unearthed Art in Nature Oct 2-5

Saluda Shoals "unearth days" Oct 2-5 Columbia SC -
Where nature and art co-exist

"unearth"
"Thursday (10/2) Food, Art & Business Market 5:00 p.m.
Presented in partnership with the Irmo Chamber of Commerce, this will feature unique businesses, delicious food" and beautiful art for sale by local artists. Contact Melody Powers at the CofC749-9355.

"Friday (10/3) The Palmetto Mastersingers Concert 6:30 p.m.
Bring a picnic and join us for an evening performance with SC’s Musical Ambassadors singing American classics, beach music and favorites from the “Rat Pack”. "

"Saturday (10/4) The Sound of Music 6:00 p.m.
People of all ages will enjoy singing along with local musicians as they perform our most favorite
childhood songs. When the sun goes down, gather around for the showing of the sing-a-long version of The Sound of Music. Coordinated in partnership with Nickelodeon & The Musician & Songwriters Guild of SC. "

"Sunday (10/5) A Day of Art at Saluda Shoals Park 1 :00 p.m.
A day showcasing art demonstrations, poetry, music, dance, and outdoor sculpture. Highlights include artist barbie Mathis painting along the river, as well as Michel McNinch and many others. The day concludes with a concert by the Lake Murray Symphony. "

This event is presented by the Saluda Shoals Foundation and Irmo Chapin Recreation
Commission in partnership with the Irmo Chamber of Commerce, Nickelodeon, Musician & Songwriters \ Guild of South Carolina and 701 Center for Contemporary Art."

"unearth Summary

Contact - Saluda Shoals Foundation Executive Directordpatton@icrc.net803.213.2035"

Art Reception & Sale Featuring Ilona

Back Porch Studio on Two Notch Rd. in Columbia SC will be honoring the former ETV star of "Painting with Ilona" Sunday Oct. 5, from 1:30-5:30. A fine selection of art works done by Ilona and her students. Oil paintings in the impressionistic style; fine photography from Sandra Phaup; great giclees, prints and original realistic landscapes by Jean Ehler; mixed media collage and abstracts by Jean Bourque and great sculptures and pottery by Kevin Smith and Paul Moore. Many other artists will be included as well.

Coming Soon Art Classes with Ilona

Ilona will be returning to Columbia SC soon. (and to other SC destinations) Ilona Royce Smithken former tv star of "Painting with Ilona" will be hosted by Sandra and Bud Phaup of Forest Acres in Columbia SC. Sandra is the founder of the Back Porch Painters Gallery and Potter's Studios.

Painting with Oils in an Impressionistic Style classes will run Mon -Fri Sep 29-Oct 3 and Oct 6 to Oct 10 Mon-Fri. Both weeks the classes will be from 10 AM to 1:30 PM with a quick lunch break.

Ilona currently resides in NYC and summers in Provincetown, MA. During the fall and winter Ilona travels throughout the Southeast teaching her famous style from Columbia SC to Louisville KY.

More info to follow...

Email; Juried Art Competition in Knoxville, TN

Dear friends and artists,

I wanted to let you know about the upcoming Arts & Culture Alliance National Juried Exhibition of 2008. The deadline for entries to be postmarked is Saturday, September 27, 2008. The selected art will be exhibited at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from December 15, 2008 - January 14, 2009, with an awards ceremony and reception scheduled for "First Friday", January 2, 2009.

This year's juror is Angela Usrey, Owner and Director of Tanner Hill Gallery in Chattanooga. Prizes include $1,400 in cash awards as well as future exhibition opportunities.

A prospectus and application are available on our Web site at http://www.knoxalliance.com/news/news.html#Juried. Please let me know if you have any questions. Feel free to pass this along to any interested parties.
Kind regards,
Suzanne
----------------------------
Arts & Culture Alliance
PO Box 2506
Knoxville, TN 37901
(865) 523-7543(865) 523-7312 fax

Artists for 701 Center for Contemporary Art Meeting

ARTISTS FOR 701 CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART
Calling All Visual Artists

Join Laura Spong, Jeff Donovan, David and Ellen Yaghjian and Mary Glickerson for an artists' event in support of Columbia's new 701 Center for Contemporary Art. The event will take place Sunday, September 21, from 3:00 - 6:00 PM at Laura Spong's on Pinemont Dr, Columbia, S.C. The event will be catered by Southern Way. Several 701 CCA board members will be at the event to talk about the center.

About 701 CCA: 701 will open to the public mid-October with a Grand Gala opening on October 16 and the public opening of the inaugural exhibition, Textile Tales, on October 17. The center has already welcomed its first artist in residence at the renovated 701 Whaley Street in Olympia, Columbia's historic textile mill village. 701 CCA's first resident, Beth Melton of Rock Hill, moved in September 1 and is working on a textile-based installation. Melton is part of the center's inaugural year that focuses on art and residencies that engage the legacy and materials of the textile industry, mill villages and mill workers. She will be in 701 CCA's inaugural exhibition, along with South Carolina's artists Ellen Kochansky, Phil Moody and Scotty Peek.
This information was provided by Mary Gilkerson. For further info contact her 803.799.1368.
www.marygilkerson.com
mary@marygilkerson.com

Movie Reveiw: Babylon A. D.

Babylon was a fast moving action packed adventure story featuring several newcomers to the large screen and Vin Diesel as the main character along with Muchelle Yeoh. As with many action adventure movies; we have a "paid killer". This one however; played quite convincingly has decided to reform and has agreed to deliver a "package" from a convent in the hills of Asia to NYC.

The package turns out to be a "nun" and her (previously abandoned) adopted daughter. The girl is the package said to be carrying a rare virus. She is amazingly understated as both an intellect and a striking beauty. Although she flirts with the leading man; he is having none of it. All he wants to do is his job. In the end he realizes it is a suicide mission. Even so; the ending turns out to be quite surprising and cleverly crafted.

Using my standard rating guide:

Did it make me laugh? Yes, I laughed some; although its not a comedy
Did it make me cry? Yes, it had a few tender moments.
Did it keep me awake? YES and that is a miracle because I was very tired!

A movie worth seeing; but leave the kids at home....it is a little rough around the edges as are most movies in this genre. One thing I am not real clear on is why the movie was named Babylon A D ? The title total doesn't make sense to me in regards to the movie; so for that I am going to deduct a half point and rate it 2.5 points on a scale of three.

This movie is currently playing in several theaters throughout Columbia, SC

Alicia Leeke's Reception Date Changed to Sept 12th

CHARLESTON ARTIST GUILD GALLERY
“COASTAL INSPIRATIONS” EXHIBIT

featuring work by South Carolina artist

ALICIA LEEKE

Due to the Storm Warnings in Charleston Alicia's show which I posted last week and was scheduled for this evening has now been changed to Sept 12th. The exhibition will be marked with an opening preview reception from 5-8 p.m. The exhibit will continue until September 30.

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and is located at 6 North Atlantic Wharf, off East Bay Street and across from a convenient parking garage. You may contact Alicia about her paintings by calling (803) 429-5456, 888-429-5456, via email at leekeka@hotmail.com or by visiting her website at www.alicialeeke.com.

TAG features Howard Hunt as Guest Speaker 9/8

Like I mentioned last week; art season is about to begin. I say that with a grin as you know most of the art leagues do not meet during the summer months. Trenholm Art League aka: TAG will have their first meeting of the year in Columbia SC at 7PM Monday evening. Howard Hunt a gifted artist that paints nature's scenes on canvas as well as having an eye to capture beautiful images in photography will be the guest speaker.

Howard Hunt was very instrumental in the Artist's Round Table last year and helped secure art shows at various venues for many of our members through connections he has in the real estate business. Finding local business owners willing to allow art shows of the ART Group really makes Howard not only a gifted artist but truly a gifted entrepreneur and marketing guru. His presentation should be very informative and interesting.

I wish I could make it there; but I will be out of town on business. So ...go in my place and have a good time. Don't forget to tell Howard you read about him on my blog.

unearthed at Saluda Shoals in October

Discover Saluda Shoals Park

Be inspired by nature's bounty at the shores of the Saluda River in Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia SC. Featured artists include award winning artists: Barbie Mathis best known for her beautifully detailed rose renderings in watercolor and Alicia Leeke: best known for her lovely impressionistic street scenes with her unusual perspective; taking the audience to Paris. She also creates beautiful hand painted batiks used in her scarves and ties in silk and they must be seen and felt to appreciate how wonderful they are. Alicia was one of the founding members and former president of The Artists Round Table in Columbia, SC.

Also painting will be Michelle McNinch. She has been an art teacher in the Adult Division of Midlands Technical College and has taught many local artist to paint. In addition, Michelle also teaches teenagers the fine arts on a full time basis in the greater Chapin area. Michelle was one of the founding members of the Crooked Creek Art league and one of its first presidents. A gifted artist with many top awards for her paintings; she works in oils and water media and always in a very photo-realistic way.

Artsails1 will post more info about the event and the artists that will be doing demos that day in future editions of this blog...so stay tuned.

Alicia Leeke Art Reception in Charleston this Week

ART OPENING in CHARLESTON, SC

Paintings by Alicia Leeke

copyright belongs to the artist

The Charleston Artist Guild Gallery in Charleston, SC, will present the exhibit, Coastal Inspirations, featuring works by South Carolina artist, Alicia Leeke. The exhibition will be marked with an opening preview reception from 5-8 p.m. held Friday September 5. The exhibit will continue until September 30. Using the term she coined for a new era of art, called “Fabaism,” Leeke offers her personal interpretations of Charleston and transforms familiar scenes into modern-day masterpieces. This new body of work focuses on the impact color and abstraction has on landscape painting. The artists' love of the coast extends back into early childhood where family vacations were spent exploring the woods, dunes and tides of South Carolina’s coast. Called a Contemporary Master, her creativity is inspired by the French Salon painters and how they captured history, social conscience and architecture by painting the people and environments surrounding them.

Complementing each painting is a robust combination of dry brush painting techniques to create texture. She manipulates acrylics to capture the thick rich texture of oils and mixes a palette full of rich reds, vibrant oranges, shocking blues and sharp white accents.

Her gentle distortions of linear perspective are a fundamental element to the overall design of her creations and are a necessary ingredient in the composition of her pieces. In fact, they create such a positive visual response that many viewers want to step inside each painting.

The gallery is open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and is located at 6 North Atlantic Wharf, off East Bay Street and across from a convenient parking garage. You may contact Alicia about her paintings by calling (803) 429-5456, 888-429-5456, via email at leekeka@hotmail.com or by visiting her website at http://www.alicialeeke.com/.

It's Art Season and I will be Painting!!!

Hi;

I know I didn't write much this summer and that's okay. Columbia's art scene pretty much dries up for the summer. Fall is almost here now and I hope all ya'll that wanted to enter the SC State Fair Juried Fine Art Show have remembered to do so on line.

A long weekend is upon us and I will be painting. One of my Charlotte NC friends has bought a new home and needs more art. I will be painting in Chroma Interactive Acrylics. These have a longer dry time; making it possible to paint wet on wet which is typically an oil painting thing. I love oil painting but it has very toxic chemicals and the paint takes forever to dry. Not so good for an artist that likes to work multiple paintings at times. I can't tell you how many smeared paintings I had in oil.

With Fall; comes beautiful colors...the colors burst onto the leaves before they fall. The pumpkins, squash and cantaloupes adding new colors to our landscapes. The air smells different and hurricane season is upon us. School has started and after this weekend; vacations will end until we get closer to Thanksgiving.

I'll paint my geometric painting outside without rulers; without lines; without tape and just go freely into the blinding light and follow it where ever the brush takes me. This piece will be filled with feeling and that is what my friend in Charlotte makes me think about. We have been friends for nearly 20 years and visited each other in various states and kept in touch. Feelings... someone that has feelings; that cares and loves geometric art. So to my friend in Charlotte...this is your weekend. I dedicate it to you. I will have to follow up with a visit of course and I can't wait to see the new house; custom built for you; my friend.

Have a GREAT Labor Day Weekend...ya'll.

yours truly;

Jean Bourque

August 29 "if" Art Gallery Opening (Email Bag)

if ART
presents at
Gallery 80808/Vista Studios
808 Lady St., Columbia, S.C.

THE LINE ACCORDING TO
Roland Albert – Mary Gilkerson – Sjaak Korsten
& Kees Salentijn

August 29 – September 9, 2008

Artists’ Reception: Friday, August 29, 2008, 5 – 10 p.m.
Opening Hours:
Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.
Weekdays, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and by appointment

For more information, contact Wim Roefs at if ART:
(803) 238-2351/255-0068 – wroefs@sc.rr.com

For its August – September exhibition, if ART presents at Gallery 80808/Vista Studios The Line According to Roland Albert, Mary Gilkerson, Sjaak Korsten & Kees Salentijn. German artist Albert will present mixed media, mostly wood-based sculptures, and Columbia’s Gilkerson, a new series of monotypes. Dutch painter Salentijn will show paintings, mixed media works on paper, painted ceramic plates, lithographs and silkscreens. Korsten, another Dutch artist, will show mixed media works on paper. Korsten has recently joined if ART Gallery, and the upcoming exhibition will be his first in the United States.
Albert (b. 1944) is a widely respected painter and sculptor in Germany. He is part of the artists’ exchange between Columbia and its German sister city of Kaiserslautern. Albert studied with the famous Greek-American sculptor Kosta Alex in Paris in 1964. In 1970, he graduated from the prestigious Munich Academy of Fine Arts. Albert’s work overall fits European post-World War II contemporary traditions. He shares Joseph Beuys’ love for rough and unfinished materials. Like Art Informel artists such as Spaniard Antoni Tapies and fellow German Emil Schumacher, Albert considers not just forms and shapes important but also the tactile and physical quality of his materials. Gilkerson (b. 1958) has recently completed monotypes for her Three River series based on Columbia’s Congaree, Saluda and Broad rivers. The sometimes strongly abstracted works are based on photos and drawings Gilkerson made earlier this year during walks along the riverbanks. Gilkerson for many years has been prominent on the art scene of the South Carolina Midlands as an artist, critic and curator. She teaches art at Columbia College in her hometown of Columbia. Gilkerson holds BFA, MA and MFA degrees from the University of South Carolina.
Korsten (b. 1957) is widely known and respected in the Netherlands. Not unlike Albert, he works in established post-World War II European modern and contemporary traditions. His work is related to Art Informel artists such as Tapies, Jaap Wagemaker, Wols, Jean Fautrier and Manalo Millares. Much of the focus in their work and that of Korsten is on materials and surface. While Korsten’s work is heavily abstracted, he typically includes representative elements. Korsten’s work has been shown at major European fairs, including TEFAF Maastricht, PAN Amsterdam and the Cologne Art Fair.
Salentijn (b. 1947) is among The Netherlands’ most prominent painters. The initial inspiration leading to his mature style came from post-war American art and from Spanish painters such as Tapies, Antonio Saura, and later Millares. Salentijn developed a personal style that combined the expressionist, painterly swath with smaller but equally expressionist marks that are quick and slightly nervous but sure. Combining vigorous painting with often-childlike imagery, Salentijn’s work eventually placed him in the Northern European, post-war CoBrA tradition of strongly expressionist, abstracted art that containes representational elements. Salentijn’s increased use of figuration in the 1990s confirmed this link. His work is in several European museums. In addition to the 1982 Chicago Art Fair, his work has been represented at major European art fairs, including Art Fair Basel, TEFAF Maastricht, Kunstmesse Cologne and KunstRAI Amsterdam. =