The Arts
An Artist Shaped by Life and Experience: Poané By John Shivers
H
indsight is an interesting phenomenon. Thanks to the failsafe perspective it provides, it’s easy to chart the experiences of an artist named Poané, who’s been shaped by all that he’s encountered. Now he’s found his niche and his element alongside Sanderstown Road in Franklin, North Carolina. Look for the new sign – Poané Art Gallery – that proclaims his presence. His name is simply Poané, pronounced like Monet’, another artist of another century and some renown besides. Growing up in New Jersey and New York, as a teenager Poané first discovered he could create images with pen and pencil and brush. But life sometimes includes detours. It was in the midst of varied and sundried experiences in places like New York and Atlanta, where he was a celebrity photographer such as Emmy awards, Trumpet awards, red carpet, concerts and many more, that his artistic presence was shaped and honed with over-the-top creativity and magical inspiration. He’s come full-circle, all the better for the path that brought him to this juncture. Customer feedback has convinced him that he’s where he’s supposed to be, doing what he’s supposed to do. It was portraiture that brought him back to his original creative roots, and his commissioned images of such notables as Charlie Daniels established him. He’s also a master at recreating the works of Old Masters, most particularly those of Michelangelo Caravaggio. Many of his faithful following have discovered, if you can name it, Poané can paint it! He’s always available for custom commissions. Several years ago he substituted wood for traditional canvas, and the result has been phenomenal. His wood art has developed a definite following, especially his dog portraits that make you believe you’ll feel real fur when you run your hands over the image. Another item that has emerged from his creative imagination is a line of charcuterie boards that you simply have to see to appreciate. If he’s not in the gallery, check the nearby Cowee Mountain Clay studio, and be prepared to be wowed there as well. Jennifer, his significant other, complements the Poané gallery offerings with her line of all natural soy and palm wax hand-poured candles. Poané Art Gallery is located at 52 Sanderstown Road in Franklin, open seven days a week. Poané is available by phone at 678-508-3421. His email address is poanepoanepoane@gmail.com. Check him out on Instagram at poane@artofpoane and on Facebook at Art of Poane.
46 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - August 2022
