Art Matters: Fall 2019

Magazine of the Western Colorado Center for the Arts Volume 4, Issue 4 Fall 2019

First Fridays Presented by:

Michael Neste, MD

Our Mission: Family Health West is a Fruita-based, non-profit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, cost-effective, high-value health care which enhances the quality of life for our community.

300 W Ottley Ave • Fruita, CO 81521 (970) 858-3900 fhw.org SERVICES PROVIDED BY

FAMILY HEALTH WEST

Art Matters Director’s Letter About The Art Center Development News Announcements Exhibitions

The Only Way We're Going to Get Through This is Together Splicing Time Paul Pletka Loren Eakins Hidden in Plain Type WCWS Members' Show

Events Music in the Grapevines Summer Concert Series Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Time Travels Through the American West

Youth & Teen Education Teen Programs Youth Programs

Artability Art with a Heart

Art Hacks Letter It

Adult Education Workshops 2D Classes Ceramics How To Enroll

Extras On The Cover: Chris Troutman, Crossing Paths Art Matters Fall 2019 gjartcenter.org

4 5 6 7 8-9 10-11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19-21 22 23 24-25 26-29 30-33 34 35

Happy Summer!

I hope you’re enjoying your summer; here at The Art Center, we've been busy!

We’re installing new exhibitions and are in the middle of our summer adult art classes. We’re already getting ready for fall classes and workshops and the annual art and craft fair in November, and we’re already planning for next year's “Paint the Town” benefit. The work never stops, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

We love what we do!

Of course, Summer Art Camp is in full swing; the building has been teeming with young people. New this summer, we have an exciting collaboration with the Colorado Mesa University Fine Art program, offering week-long teen workshops.

Most of the workshops are taught by CMU Fine Arts professors in the CMU art building. We’re thrilled to be working with CMU and are looking forward to building more and more collaborative projects with them in the future.

You probably also know that we’ve formed a collaborative relationship with The Theatre Project, which recently became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. With the hard work by Dana and Joy, and The Theatre Project team, we’ve been able to offer productions like “Love Letters,” “Sylvia,” “GODSPELL,” and a one act play festival. In August, we will be presenting Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors.”

The Art Center Guild is also busy doing what they do – which is to say, A TON! The Guild never ceases to amaze me. I hesitate to try to list everything they do to help make The Art Center the amazing place that it is because I know I’m going to forget something. But just to mention a few things, they provide hors d’ouvres for our First Friday openings and the amazing food for the annual benefit. They volunteer to tend bar for First Fridays and other events like Comedy Night and our theatre productions. The Music in the Grapevines Concert Series is one hundred percent Guild planned and executed. During the annual holiday art and craft fair, they run the Not So Starving Artist sale, sell homemade baked goods, and prepare amazing food from the kitchen. The list goes on and on and on. And, on top of all their volunteer hours, all the money they raise directly benefits The Art Center’s exhibitions, educational programs, and capital improvements.

There’s so much more to tell you about, but there just isn’t room. The Art Center is a busy and exciting place.

On a sad note, I feel compelled to share my thoughts about the passing of our dear friend, Jac Kephart. Jac passed away a few weeks ago after a long illness. I know that I’m not alone in being heart-broken over the loss of Jac. In many ways, he was my mentor in learning an appreciation for the visual arts. Jac and I would spend hours sitting and talking about art, a topic about which he had boundless knowledge and wisdom. He would randomly stop by my office, pour a cup of coffee, and visit with me. And I would always drop everything when he did. He was a brilliant artist, a scholar of the arts, and a dear friend, not just to me, but to so many people. He was a true champion of the arts, and The Art Center.

Thank you, Jac … for everything. And so long, old friend.

Lee Borden, Executive Director 4 | WELCOME

Our Mission: The Art Center is a community arts organization dedicated to improving quality of life by promoting the enjoyment and understanding of the visual arts and related arts through studio art instruction, educational programs for children and adults, exhibitions, and the acquisition, care and display of a permanent art collection.

Board of Trustees

Art Center Staff

Lancer Livermont – President Jeremy R Franklin – 1st Vice President Ronya Anna – 2nd Vice President Chris Briardy – Treasurer Anita Pisciotte – Secretary Kay Ambrose Kirk Granum Jack Griggs Kari Henning Kendra McDaniel Dr. Michael Neste Mykan White Cathy Zippert

Lee Borden

Executive Director

Jennifer Clark

Director of Development

Matt Jones

Curator, Programs & Exhibitions

Rachel Egelston

Youth & Special Needs Education Director

Terry Shepherd

Artist-in-Residence, Ceramics Director

Keith Brewer

Membership & Gift Gallery Coordinator

Haley Van Camp

Design and Communications Manager

Art Center Hours

9am to 4pm Tuesday through Saturday Admission $3 (free to members and children under 12) There is no charge to visit the Gift Gallery

Tuesdays are free to everyone thanks to a generous sponsorship by Home Loan & Nationwide Insurance

Operational funding provided in part by

ABOUT US

|5

Development News On June 6, The Art Center hosted a special VIP appreciation event to thank major supporters of our annual benefit held on May 4. This special event featured nationally-recognized artist and former exhibitor Ron Hicks, who served as juror of the Contemporary Figure 2019 exhibition. This cocktail reception offered attendees the opportunity to meet Hicks and learn about his work and his selection process.

Photos by Ashtonn Means

Leave a Legacy – Give a Gift to the WCCA Endowment Foundation The Western Colorado Center for the Arts Endowment Foundation is a separate 501(c)3 whose sole purpose is to support The Art Center. Established in 1987, the Foundation now holds assets of over $700,000, thanks to gifts from grateful art lovers. In the past year, we provided over $35,000 in support to The Art Center. You can help us reach our goal to grow the foundation to $1 million by giving a gift in honor or memory of someone, or by including the Foundation in your estate planning. Gifts to the Foundation help The Art Center for years to come. Be a part of our future. Contact Jennifer Clark at jclark@gjartcenter.org or 970-243-7337 ext 9.

6 | DEVELOPMENT NEWS

Morphologizing

Terry Shepherd Exhibits in California “A term and concept inspired by morphological studies. Morphology comes from the Greek word for form, and as a modern mode of analysis, it refers to the study of shape, form, structure, and arrangement. The term is particularly useful for studying pottery because of the many complex structural relationships—both physical and cultural—that define pottery.

Morphologizing is morphology in action, a way of thinking,” according to Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center’s prospectus.

The Art Center’s Director of Ceramics, Terry Shepherd, made a splash at the Manhattan Beach Creative Arts Center’s Exhibition, “Morphologizing,” that ran from May 3rd to June 16th. Shepherd had three works represented in this invitational exhibition, where he showed alongside artist Jonathan Keep, Alec Lindsey, Karen Koblitz, and Dino Capaldi, and others.

Shepherd has over 48 years of experience in the field of ceramics and has mentored countless artists in mastering the craft. He has been instrumental in developing the arts culture on the Western Slope and has further enhanced techniques within Western Raku, originally established by his mentor and longtime friend, Paul Soldner. Terry Shepherd states, “I feel it’s important to carry on the legacy of works that had their start in the 50s and continue the process of exploration that leads to an innovation of the style. In this day and age, ceramic artists are not as interested in alternative, low fire techniques such as Raku and salt vaper. The emphasis on functionality has seemed to limit the public’s interest toward such works, yet they are still as relevant today as they once were.”

The Art Center acknowledges the accomplishments of its Director of Ceramics and Artist in Residence, Terry Shepherd, and is forever grateful for his dedication to art exploration and education.

ANNOUNCEMENTS | 7

The Only Way We’re This is Together:

8 | EXHIBITIONS

Going to Get Through Paintings and Prints by Erin Holscher Almazan Solo Exhibition by Erin Holscher Almazan August 2-31 First Friday Reception August 2, 7-9pm

"…I reflect on a malleable identity shaped not only by our own shifting environments, but also by nature, nurture, inheritance, and history."

Erin Holscher Almazan is an Associate Professor of printmaking and drawing at the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio. She received her BFA from Minnesota State University and her MFA in printmaking from Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. She has exhibited her work internationally and served as the artist in residence in Belgium at the Frans Masereel Centrum.

Holscher Almazan uses a direct process for her prints by applying gestural lines on mylar or copper. She is fond of both the block printing process and painting. Her printed works feature a reduced color palette with elegant feminine subject matters. The stylized floral motif, and figures are reminiscent of the works of Alphonse Mucha and seem to borrow elements from both the masters of the Art Nouveau and German Expressionist movements. Holscher Almazan’s work addresses the concepts of identity and environment. She states in her artist statement “…I reflect on a malleable identity shaped not only by our own shifting environments, but also by nature, nurture, inheritance, and history.” Her prints and paintings will be on display through the month of August in the North Gallery.

EXHIBITIONS | 9

10 | EXHIBITIONS

Splicing Time:

Drawing and Narrative Solo Exhibition by Chris Troutman September 6 – 28 First Friday Reception September 6, 7-9pm

"A painting requires a little mystery, some vagueness, and some fantasy." ~ Edgar Degas Step into the world of Chris Troutman in the exhibition “Splicing Time: Drawing and Narrative.” After receiving his undergraduate degree from Bradley University in 2003, Troutman and his wife moved to Japan and founded a conversational English School in Kagoshima City. His time spent there plays a significant role in his artwork today, and he continues to travel to Japan annually. Troutman received his MFA in drawing and painting from California State University.

He currently works as an Assistant Professor of art at Lamar University.

His artwork explores concepts of human figures in urban landscapes.

His works often include unusual and creative points of perspective.

The scenes consist of multiple panels fused together as a conglomerate of happenings. This storyteller style has multiple levels of readability and creates organization throughout the work. Troutman’s influences include Edgar Degas and Edward Hopper, and he uses graphic novels and comic books as a primary source of inspiration in his exploration of the drawing medium.

EXHIBITIONS | 11

Paul Pletka: Indigenous Peoples Work from The Art Center’s Permanent Collection August 2 – September 7 First Friday Reception August 2, 7-9pm Sponsored by Shelter Insurance, Charles Wallis Agency, LLC The Art Center is pleased to have on display works from its permanent collection by nationally recognized contemporary artist Paul Pletka. Pletka is revered for a neo-surrealist style that is evident in his paintings and lithography.

Pletka has exhibited artworks in Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and numerous other states across the U.S. Many of Pletka’s works feature Native American figures with exaggerated features and highly detailed pictorial elements.

His attention to detail is guided by his years of dedicated research into the history of Native American tribal groups.

® 12 | EXHIBITIONS

Loren Eakins

Solo Exhibition by emerging artist Loren Eakins September 6 - 28 First Friday Reception September 6, 7-9pm Loren Eakins is an emerging artist with Eakins keeps detailed sketchbooks his BFA from the Rocky Mountain recording his experiences and travels.

College of Art and Design and his He expresses his appreciation for the biology degree from Colorado Mesa beauty of nature through his portrayal University. When he isn’t in Grand of atmosphere using light, color, and Junction, Eakins energy.

Eakins spends his time prefers to paint "Through accuracy, from life in a plein as a Northern Pacific Ground a delicate touch, and air style, and he is an Fish Observer invited artist in the an ever-deepening 2019 Monuments on the Bering Sea conducting understanding I seek and Canyons Plein scientific testing Air Invitational this to explore the world Fall. Fast changing aboard a fishing vessel.

Eakins conditions that surrounds us." lighting uses his education and moving bodies in science and grace Eakins with a fine art to produce illustrations in few precious minutes to record each graphite and watercolor. Some of his passing moment. Eakins states that illustration work involves documenting “through accuracy, a delicate touch, and new species. Many of Eakins' graphite an ever-deepening understanding I seek works are detailed studies of marine life to explore the world that surrounds us.” or skeletal structures. His watercolor works balance his dualistic nature with gestural brush strokes and expressive use of color.

EXHIBITIONS | 13

d sors an s e f o r design p c g i n h i r p u a r at ld of g tion fe e i i f b i e h h x t pe nals in o i A grou s s e f g pro 1 -9pm workin – August 3 August 2, 7 n t2 Augus ay Receptio rid First F

nes hew Jo ~ Matt

14 | EXHIBITIONS

WCWS Members' Show September 6 – 28 First Friday Reception September 6, 7-9pm The WCWS was founded in 1989 with only 14 members; now with over 125 members it has become a strong artistic force in the Western Colorado arts community. Awards will be given to the works chosen by this year’s juror, Kathleen Lanzoni.

About the Juror Kathleen Lanzoni is an award-winning artist with a passion for watercolor.

Lanzoni paints in a realistic painterly style, bringing the effect of changing light and color that describes the atmosphere, context, and shape of the scene to the paper. She lives in Boulder, CO, and was formally trained at the Art Institute of Boston and Massachusetts College of Art.

Kathleen Lanzoni will also be offering a one-day workshop on Friday, September 6, from 9am to 4pm at the First Presbyterian Church 3940 27 ½ Road, Grand Junction. For more information or to register, call Dani Tupper, 970-874-308 or visit the WCWS website.

EXHIBITIONS | 15

Two Rivers Winery | 2087 Broadway, 81507 Ticket Price $15 per person, all ages Tuesday, July 16 7:00 pm – The Scones Tuesday, August 20 7:00 pm – Bryan Savage Tuesday, September 10 7:00 PM – Soul Habit Relax in the shadows of the Colorado National Monument.

Wine is available by the glass or bottle. Please, no other adult beverages permitted.

All proceeds benefit The Art Center (Western Colorado Center for the Arts) For more information call (970)243-7337 ext.2 or email sjroberts1@earthlink.net CONCERTS ARE PROUDLY SPONSORED BY ANB BANK

Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Friday, September 13, 5:30-7pm Free and open to the public Each year during Hispanic Heritage Month, Americans celebrate the contributions that the Latino community has made to our country. The celebration runs from Sep. 15 to Oct. 15. We are pleased to co-host the annual kick-off celebration again this year with the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce and Hispanic Affairs Project. This is a free event for the community, featuring music and performances, the presentation of the Hispanic Advancement Award, and an exhibit featuring local artist, Paul Cruz.

16 | EVENTS

EVENTS | 17

Summer Teen Workshops 2019 Monday – Friday, 12:30-4:30pm Tuition: $55 member / $67 non-member per week, per student Need-based scholarships available All materials provided Don’t forget to bring a snack, a lunch, and a water bottle!

July 15-19: Sculpture The Art Center Pavia Justinian Ages 13-15

Discover how to create 3-dimensional form. Explore using different materials to create a sculptural piece.

July 22-25: Screen Printing Colorado Mesa University Fine Arts Building, Rm 302 Eli Hall Ages 13-18 $50 member / $62 non-member

Introduce concepts and techniques of screen printing within graphic design and illustration. Become familiar with industry tools, equipment and processes.

July 22-26: Digital Painting Colorado Mesa University Fine Arts Building, Rm 308 Brook Safken Ages 13-18

An introduction to the tools, methods, and concepts used to create digital paintings in Adobe Photoshop. No prior program experience required.

Students will need a sketchbook and drawing materials.

July 29-Aug 2: Cartoon Art, Manga, and Comic Books Colorado Mesa University Fine Arts Building, Rm 302 Ages 13-17 Rebecca Woods

Bring your characters and ideas to life by learning about the basics of cartooning and storytelling through sequential pictures.

18 | TEEN

Summer Art Camp Ages 5-13 9am-4pm, early drop-off at 8:30am with art games!

Tuition per day per child: $22 member / $27 non-member All materials provided Don’t forget to bring a snack, a lunch, and a water bottle!

Week 7, July 15-19: Art-estra Students will explore a variety of visual art materials as they create their own instruments and learn to play them. Students will create a ceramic mosaic and a batik. Visiting guest artist will be Rachel Davis from Opera Performance Society.

Week 8, July 22-26: STEAM and Functional Art Discover why educators put Art in STEM. Projects will include Jackson Pollock “egg drop,” newspaper shoe challenge, morphing drawing, erupting paint, rainbow paper, and more. Students will create functional clay pieces and learn to weave and sew. Visiting guest artist will be Robbie Breaux, ceramic artist.

Week 9, July 29-Aug 2: Art from Around the World and from History Students will discover art making from different regions. Projects will include gyotaku, Sumi-e, Kabuki masks and God’s eyes. African mud and sugar skulls, as well as India folk art, Guatemalan worry dolls, Kente cloth, and more will be included.

Week 10, Aug 5-9: Hemberger Sustainable Architecture; working with LEGOS® Imagine a building that uses very little energy, generates what power it needs, and fits in with its surroundings, then imagine how this building helps the people that live, work, or play in it. Students will bring this building to the drawing board and then construct it out of various materials. Students will learn techniques in drawing and creating perspective while using colored pencils and markers. Visiting guest artist will be Ed Madaris, master carpenter.

Generously sponsored by

YOUTH | 19

After School Program: ART FOR KIDS Rachel Egelston and guest artist Tuition per session: $55 member / $70 non-member Welcome to the wonderful world of art! Afterschool series is geared toward any child who loves to draw, paint, and use a variety of material. Join in the fun! All materials provided.

Wednesdays Ages 5-8 Session 1: Aug 21 & 28, Sept 11 & 18: Drawing techniques, batik bandana, clay treasure box Session 2: Sept 25, Oct 4, Oct 16: Art from around the world, Gyotaku (fish printing), African mud painting, Swedish color drawing, pottery from Mexico

Fridays Ages 8-12 Session 1: August 23 & 30, Sept 13 & 20: Larger than life clay sculptures, fantasy still life, drawing real animals

Session 2: Sept 27-Oct 18: Art meets Science (clay), Japanese Suminagashi, painting on canvas

School’s Out Day Camp Ages 5-13 8:30am-4pm Sept 16 & 17, Oct 14-16 Tuition per day per child: $22 member / $27 non-member All materials provided Experience an entire day of in-depth art exploration! Projects range from drawing, painting, sculpture, process art, and more, through hands-on learning. Each day has open-ended creative exploration with art instruction.

Children enjoy learning, exploring, observing, and creating in an inclusive and inspiring environment. Students are asked to bring a lunch, snack, and water bottle. All materials provided.

Sept 16: Play with color – edible color wheel, acrylic paint pouring, Jackson

Pollock

Sept 17: Discover the art side of LEGOS, how to draw with depth, watercolor

Oct 14: Different STEAM-related projects Oct 15: “Project Runway” challenge – students will create a wearable piece of clothing item from what they find in their mystery bag.

Oct 16: Get ready for the Halloween season; celebrate the release of “Addams Family” movie with arts and crafts 20 | YOUTH

Home School Art Program Ages 5-13 Rachel Egelston Thursdays, 1-2:30pm, Aug 22 – Oct 17, skipping Sept 5 $105 member / $155 non-member All materials provided; need-based scholarships available This class is a perfect way to pique your child’s creative interest. Art allows children to express their ideas and concepts visually and leads to a balance in their development. Children are encouraged to engage in both traditional and non-traditional art projects in a variety of media and techniques while exploring their diverse roots and experiences through art. Areas covered are clay, painting, printmaking, drawing, and sculpture. Some of the feature projects this session are clay selfies, arpilleras paperclip felting, and guilded pinch pots. Projects will vary from other sessions to accommodate returning students. All materials provided.

All youth classes address the Colorado Model Content Standard for visual arts. Content standards used in class will be provided upon request. Students and parents are assured of a unique classroom and project experience whether it be in fall, holiday, winter, spring, or summer sessions.

Classes are taught by art teachers and teaching artists.

YOUTH | 21

Artability - Art with a Heart

Thursdays 4-5pm Aug 13, 27; Sept 10, 24; Oct 8, 22 $4 per student, per day All materials provided; need-based scholarships available Sponsored in part by the Rocky Mountain Health Foundation This series of classes is designed for individuals with mental and/or physical limitations. Classes provide hands-on experiences in a supportive, encouraging, and motivating environment. Students will explore and learn about different art mediums and craft mediums. This includes everything from drawing, painting, clay, printmaking, mosaic, plaster, and sculpture. Students will come away with a positive attitude due to our non-judgmental environment and philosophy.

22 | ARTABILITY

Create custom hand lettering for your project using traditional sig n painting techniques!

Step One: Pick an object to letter.

Step Two: Measure the space intended for lettering. Design and draw your letters to fit in the space.

Step Three: Perforate the outline of the pattern (The example shows two separate patterns that need to be painted in stages)

Step Four: Place the pattern on the surface.

Take a cotton bag and fill with powdered chalk and pad the surface lightly.

Step Five: Remove the pattern and blow off excess chalk.

Step Six: Paint the first layer using a selfleveling paint. The first layer should be completely dry before adding additional layers.

ART HACKS | 23

Paint Sketching Ned Axthelm Saturday & Sunday, July 27-28, 10am-4pm $280 member / $315 non-member Supply list available Improve brush handling, color mixing, and simplification of details by executing quick sketches in your chosen paint medium. This focused, intentional practice will free you from artistic inhibitions and open new possibilities for your art-making. Take your painting to the next level through discussion, demonstration, and hands-on exercises. Artists working at any level will benefit from the personal instruction and multiple paint sketching sessions each day in this workshop. Some painting experience is recommended.

Sculpting Imaginary Characters Ruth Wilson Saturday & Sunday, August 17-18, and Saturday, August 24 9am-4pm $240 member / $275 non-member 2-day workshop plus 1-day painting finished character Supply list available This fun workshop is dedicated to freedom of exploration, and exaggeration, doing away with right and wrong design. You will be creating a character even you have never seen before; therefore it is right as it is. Ruth will show slides of some of her characters and share their stories as brief examples of makebelieve. She will share tips and examples of different sculpting techniques as needed. Please join the adventure and create your own "New Best Friend" for the fun of it.

Portraits in Charcoal Chris Troutman Sunday, September 8, 9am-1pm $125 member / $160 non-member Supply list available Registration deadline: August 15 This half-day portrait workshop will focus on basic use of drawing materials, charcoal and charcoal pencil, as well as methods for drawing accurately, such as measuring and observing basic anatomy. The workshop will introduce the drawing materials during a demonstration, which will show how to sequence the use of charcoal and measuring, as well as the final goals of the drawing by reinforcing helpful vocabulary. Following the demonstration, problemsolving and further application of demo topics will be reviewed through oneon-one interaction, culminating with a brief group critique.

24 | WORKSHOPS

Ruth Wilson

WORKSHOPS | 25

Painting 1

Introduction to Painting and Materials Lily Cain Wednesdays 6:15-8:15pm, August 14 – October 9 $123 member / $148 non-member Supply list available This class is an introduction to the dynamics of painting and color theory through gouache. Do you find watercolors intimidating because of their delicacy? Do you love acrylics but they dry too fast? Meet gouache, your new best friend.

Gouache is water-based and, like watercolor, uses water to become translucent but can be opaque like acrylic, and is very forgiving. Each week we will build a still life with different textures and colors that challenge our sense of depth and dimension. All levels welcome.

Painting 2 will be offered in the spring!

Lily Cain 26 | CLASSES

Professional Practice:

How to Get into Galleries Lily Cain Wednesdays 4-6pm, August 14 - October 9 $123 member / $148 non-member Supply list available This class introduces practical skills for entry into a professional career in the gallery world. Whether you are a professional artist to someone who makes work as a hobby, this class begins to lay the foundation on how to structure yourself in the arts across multiple platforms. We will start with how to develop a professional portfolio that includes: how to make a consistent body of work, how to digitally document, artist statement, artist biography, web presence and more! All levels welcome.

Color Theory

Lily Cain Fridays 1-4pm, August 16 – October 11 $123 member / $148 non-member Supply list available Using color is challenging; even the most professional and learned artist can find color mixing difficult at times. This class prepares any artist at any level with an introduction to color theory. Each week we will be taking a color scheme (skin tones, neutrals, tints and shades etc.) and analyzing / recreating their color content with different techniques. Discussions will include color relativity, color philosophy, color psychology, Josef Albers, Albert Munsell, color field painting, and more. All levels welcome.

Fundamentals of Drawing Rebecca Woods Thursdays 6-9pm, August 15 – October 10 $123 member / $148 non-member Supply list available Do you feel like you can't even draw a stick figure, or do you find yourself capable but in need of a good refresher on the fundamentals? Come learn the basics of structural drawing, form modeling and composition through the study of still life objects, plein air drawing, and light figurative drawing from a model.

The class is designed to give you a clear process of looking and drawing that can be used both for simple objects and more complicated subjects. Different mediums and methods of drawing as well as the extended applications of drawing skills are explored. All levels welcome!

CLASSES | 27

Adventures in Mixed Media Gayle Gerson Mondays 1-4pm, August 12 – October 14, skipping September 2 $143 member / $183 non-member Supply list available Gayle Gerson is teaching a workshop-like class to give artists of all skill levels practice in working with experimental painting and collaging techniques to create beautiful compositions, both representational and abstract. Students will be able to devote plenty of time to each of 4 or 5 art works, creating a pleasing image that releases the sparkle of the artist’s personality. During the beginning of each class, Gayle will present a “mini-workshop” to build compositional skills and strengthen the “creative habit.” Art journaling and drawing sessions will also be part of this dynamic class.

Open Studio for Mixed Media Gayle Gerson Wednesdays 9-12pm, August 14 – October 9 $143 member / $183 non-member Supply list available Join Gayle Gerson in the Red Door Studio for three hours of moodling and puttering in mixed media projects. This class is designed for the experienced student and artist who would like to spend some time in an environment of camaraderie and inspiration. Please bring your own projects and supplies for mixed media and collage. Ideas and creativity will be shared with generosity and abandon by all. Gayle will provide coaching, some demos, and lively conversation on the latest trends in the world of mixed media art. Participants should be prepared to work, laugh, and provide feedback to their fellow artists.

28 | CLASSES

We got it going on, on Wednesdays Lectures, Tutorials, Workshops – Oh My! 1st Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm Free and open to the public Come get your creative juices flowing! On the 1st Wednesday of every month, CMU Alumni of Art and Design will host the night’s activities. Whether it's lectures, tutorials, or instructional workshops, there is always something new.

CMU Night is held from 6:30 to 8:30pm and is free to the public. Visit The Art Center's Facebook page to find out what's happening each month.

Drop-in Figure Drawing 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of every month, 6-9pm $10 member / $15 non-member If you’re a CMU student, flash your CMU ID and receive an instant discount!

On the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of the month, The Art Center offers drop-in figure drawing sessions from 6 to 9pm. Come relax and unwind while you draw without the pressure or obligation of the classroom. We currently have 4 models on rotation offering both themed and nude figure drawing sessions. Visit Art Center Figure Drawing on meetup.com to view each week's theme and any other updates.

CLASSES | 29

Fundamentals in Clay Beginner/Intermediate $223 member / $263 non-member All sessions of Fundamentals include Raku, a fun and quick firing technique.

30 | CERAMICS

Robbie Breaux Mondays 6:30-9:30pm, August 12– October 14, skipping September 2 Tuesdays 1-4pm, August 13 – October 8 This course is for both beginner and intermediate students. Beginners focus on simple forms (bowls and mugs with handles), glazes, and glazing techniques.

Intermediate students receive instruction on techniques they want to hone, such as lidded vessels, plates, or stacked forms. Throughout the session, students are introduced to different surface designs to enhance one’s work. Instruction will be tailored towards the students' interests!

Instructor email: chuckrobbiebreaux@gmail.com

Gary Andrews Tuesdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 13 – October 8 Escape into the world of clay. Students learn the basics of hand-building, then dive into the skills needed to throw fundamental forms which have been used through the ages. At times Gary will provide pre-thrown pots for students to practice glazing. Come relax and tap into your right brain.

Bob Jappe Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 15 – October 10 Give your wheel-throwing skills another perspective. This course offers students of varying abilities the opportunity to explore and improve their command of the clay medium. The class will focus largely on specific vessels students would like to create during the session with instruction designed to broaden their range of clay techniques, problem-solving, and best practices. Sharing of design ideas, texture enhancement, and glazing techniques will be robust throughout the session.

Command the fundamentals, learn new techniques, and begin to develop your individual style as a potter.

Terry Shepherd Thursdays 1-4pm, August 15 – October 10 This course is for entry level beginners and intermediate students with some previous experience in throwing and hand-building. Students will focus on the fundamentals of technique in throwing forms and explore hand-building skills and surface design including decorative slip techniques and a wide variety of surface design approaches. Instruction in glaze application and material properties of glaze elements and firing process will be studied. Basic vessel forms for mugs, bowls, pitchers, oil bottles, and other forms will be studied in detail. Instruction is tuned to the individual to help students develop confidence in exploring the boundless and curious potential of clay and ceramic process in their pursuit of creative expression! Students will make work for a Raku firing scheduled for the 8th week of class. Students will engage in constructive critique and challenge themselves in order to improve their skill level. Notebook and basic pottery tool kit are required.

Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org

CERAMICS | 31

Intermediate Ceramics

Terry Shepherd Wednesdays 9:30am-12:30pm, August 14 – October 9 $223 member / $263 non-member Take this course if you are confident when it comes to wedging and centering, can throw a 6-8� cylinder using 2-3lbs. of clay, and have experience with basic hand tools and slab rollers. Techniques like altered throwing are introduced. Come with an open mind, ready to engage in constructive critique and explore and develop a more in-depth approach to ceramics.

Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org

Terry Shepherd 32 | CERAMICS

Advanced Ceramics

Terry Shepherd Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm, August 14 – October 9 $223 member / $263 non-member Take this course if you meet the requirements for intermediate ceramics, have confidence when it comes to throwing a 10-14" cylinder using 5-10lbs. of clay, and have a desire and willingness to acquire a deeper understanding of the material properties of different clays (such as cone 10 stoneware and porcelain) and glazes, as well as alternative firing processes. Students engage in constructive critique and challenge themselves in order to improve their skill level.

Instructor email: tshepherd@gjartcenter.org

All Levels Hand-building

Nina Williams Mondays 1-4pm, August 12 – October 14, skipping September 2 $223 member / $263 non-member Not all beautiful ceramic work is thrown on a wheel! Students will join together slabs of clay, forming exquisite pieces using a variety of techniques and surface patterns. This course will focus primarily on decorative and ornamental work.

In addition to slab-building, there will also be coiling and extrusion projects throughout the class.

Sculpting in Clay

Ron Cloyd Fridays 9:30am-12:30pm, August 16 – October 11 $223 member / $263 non-member Whether you are a novice or seasoned clay artist, this course is one that will help you transform your visions into finished fired forms. With a focus toward whimsy and humor, Ron’s sculpture class will consist of demos and discussions about project inspiration (“where did you come up with that idea?”), use of tools, clay manipulation, firing, and finishing. You will be able to work through instructorguided projects, or immediately begin sculpting from your own ideas. Some tools are available, but students are encouraged to bring their own as well.

Instructor email: roncloyd@gmail.com

Included in every ceramics tuition is one, 25-lb. bag of clay and 3000 cu. in. of glaze firing (firing fee after 3000 cu. in. is 2 cents/cu. in.)

CERAMICS | 33

The Nitty Gritty Fall registration opens Tuesday, July 16 Students must register three days before the start of a class to secure a spot.

Registration: Registration can be

completed online at gjartcenter.org, over the phone, or in person at The Art Center. For phone registration, call 970-243-7337, x. 2. To register in person, stop by during gallery hours, Tuesday-Saturday 9am-4pm.

Payment: Payment can be made by

American Express, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, check, or cash. Class space will not be reserved without full payment. Please be aware that classes require a minimum number of students and are subject to cancellation. The best way to ensure that the class you are interested in does not get canceled is to register early, and don’t forget to urge a friend to sign up!

Cancellation Policy: To cancel a class or workshop registration, notify The Art Center at least 14 days before the start of the class or workshop. If given the required 14-day notice, The Art Center will issue class credit in full or will refund your payment minus the registration fee ($15 for adults and $5 for children). No refunds or class credit will be issued for cancellations

made within 14 days of the start of the class or workshop. If you register for a class or workshop within the 14-day period, you will receive no refund or class credit for cancellation.

Sorry, no refunds or class credits for no-shows. This registration policy helps instructors plan and prepare for upcoming classes, ensuring you receive ample notice if a class has insufficient registration.

Art Supplies: Supply lists for each

class are available on our website.

Unless otherwise specified, the student is responsible for purchasing art supplies. Some supplies are available at The Art Center Gift Gallery.

Tuition for ceramics classes includes one, 25-lb. bag of clay and 3000 cu. in. of glaze firing (firing fee after 3000 cu. in. is 2 cents/cu. in.) Ceramics students will need a pottery tool kit, not covered by tuition and available from The Art Center Gift Gallery for $20.99 plus tax.

Need-based scholarships are available.

Visit our website’s scholarships page for more information!

We love early registration!

34 | HOW TO ENROLL

A Word from the Wise The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance. ~ Aristotle

The Art Critic ILLUSTRATED BY MATT JONES

TYPOGRAPHY & DIGITAL COLOR BY HALEY VAN CAMP

I DON’T GET IT. IT ’S JUST DIRT.

I CALL THIS NEW PIECE, THE MEANING OF LIFE

NO, GOOD SIR, IT ’S ART!

?

Conceptual art often receives mixed feelings within the art community. The best interpretation for conceptual work often involves a philosophical reading of the visual elements. The execution of the work is not always preformed with traditional techniques, making them hard to categorize and therefore obscure.

The best analysis of such works is to think of them as philosophical questions rather than a visual storytelling. In this way the question become the focus of such works and the visual elements just a tool in the expressive process.

EXTRAS | 35

1803 Nor th 7th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 tel 970 - 243 - 7337 fax 970 - 243 - 2482 w w w. g j a r t c e n t e r . o r g

Volume 4, Issue 4 Fall 2019 NON PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PA I D GRAND JCT, CO PERMIT 162