The Gallery at Flat Rock presents The BIG Little Show, an exhibition of affordable artwork limited to a maximum size of 12 by 12 inches and priced under $250. The show, on display through Sunday, December 31, will feature work by more than 20 artists in a variety of media.
Overland Path. Dale McEntire, artist
Wildlife artist Jen Starwalt says the small scale required by this show was a challenge for her medium of soft pastel. “Unlike paintbrushes and pencils which can give incredibly precise marks,” she says, “pastels are thick, chunky and the consistency of buttery sidewalk chalk. I love pastels because they are vibrant and expressive, but getting my details into small paintings is a real challenge.” Starwalt typically creates paintings as large as 5 feet across, but for The BIG Little Show, her paintings are 6 by 6 inches. “It has been a really fun challenge of trying to bring out details and capture the soul of the wildlife I paint in this smaller form,” she says.
Small-scale work can also present a challenge for artists with a specific style, like Alec Hall, who identifies as a realist. “As such,” he says, “I enjoy creating artwork that is fairly detailed. When working small, some of the finer details can be difficult to paint and still keep the animal looking natural. Thus, I looked for ways to imply detail without overworking the surface of my pastel paintings.”
The Gallery at Flat Rock is located in Flat Rock Square at 2702-A Greenville Highway, Flat Rock. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 12–4 p.m., or by appointment. To learn more, visit GalleryFlatRock.com or call the gallery at 828.698.7000.
