Morocco Vacation. Laura Frisbie, artist
This December, Asheville Gallery of Art invites visitors to reflect on joy in its newest exhibition, Happiness Is…, on view Monday, December 1, through Wednesday, December 31. The show brings together a vibrant array of works expressing delight, nostalgia and the magic of everyday moments, from luminous landscapes to richly layered abstracts. An opening reception will take place on Friday, December 5, from 5–8 p.m. at the gallery.
Pastelist Kathleen Stern brings summer’s radiance into the winter exhibition with her abstract piece Summer Blooms. “When the theme Happiness Is… was announced last July, the gardens of Montford were flourishing,” Stern says. “Sunlight streamed through clumps of bright gold, coral and magenta daylilies, casting turquoise and violet shadows. My painting captures one of those sun-drenched days. With winter approaching, it’s cheering to remember the glorious colors of summer. Every season has its own beauty, but summer has the edge on dazzling color.”
Pancakes. Annie Gustely, artist
Marion Vidal’s piece for the exhibition, Eggnog, draws inspiration from sensory memories tied to childhood and family traditions. The work is part of her new series Comfort Food. “My hope is that my paintings will bring back these memories of growing up and simpler times,” she says. “This was a special treat for us and whenever I smell eggnog, it triggers vivid childhood memories of sitting around the dinner table with my parents and family at Christmas. The sudden smell as you walk past a shop or a painting that features a family treasured dish; what better way to celebrate happiness than with some comfort food that will remind you of these precious memories.”
Vidal’s creative process draws heavily on objects with character and history. “I love to use organic, traditional and/or retro kitchen utensils as much as possible in my Comfort Food series as they usually have a story to tell,” she says. “I find that shadows in the background can add vibrancy and a whole other dimension to the subject. My painting is in the style of the Old Masters using professional quality materials, plus I give myself permission to explore newer techniques as I continue to evolve and enjoy making art.”
Asheville Gallery of Art is located at 82 Patton Avenue in Asheville, across from Pritchard Park. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. To learn more, call 828.251.5796, visit AshevilleGallery-of-Art.com or follow the gallery’s Facebook page.
