Piney Woods Live April 2011

Priceless - Take One

Art... Music of the Soul

April 2011 The Art of the Written Word The Singing Waitress The Chef’s Wife Cheryl McClure The Stained Glass Project Self Portraits of Alzheimer’s Art in Artists’ Homes Longview’s ArtWalk

Artwork by Lisa Rachel Horlander

publishers’s

NOTE

I cannot remember a time when I was not fascinated by letters and words. At first, I only knew them as the wand that generated the magical stories that came from my mother as she read books to my brother and me, pointing to the pictures and the words as she said them. Her voice was alto and beautiful; behind her voice was fascination and love.

So, I wasn’t surprised when I recently rediscovered this old photograph taken of me as I held a magazine for the first time. From the look on my face, I can see the delight in discovering that this thing I could now actually hold held so many discoveries: maybe a new face, a flower, or even an ad for a Chevrolet printed in those early 1960’s muted blues and greens My fascination for the written word, for new ideas and new discoveries has never gone away. I spent my summers during elementary school anticipating getting a ride to the Carnegie Library every Saturday. I would check out as many books as the librarian would allow and hope they would last the entire week.

During my college days at the University of Texas at Tyler, I worked at the Book Barrel in Green Acres Shopping Center. I think I would have paid them to let me work there.

It was my dream job! I got to unpack, shelve and READ the new books that came in to the store. Then I got to recommend books to customers. We had nearly every magazine that was available because the owner also operated a magazine distribution center. I especially remember one art magazine that was so good that it lead me to discover my great love for art and architecture.

I got this dream job when I told Maggie, the bookstore’s owner, that every time I entered a bookstore or library, I would feel like I was about to lose my breath thinking about the process each writer had to go through to create each and every book in that store.

And how using just 26 letters of the alphabet can raise up the world or bring it tumbling down; can bring joy to some and terror to others. Because it is always the intent and the attitude of the writer and the reader that can dare to change one person or the world.

What power!

This month, we want to celebrate the written word by including a few poems and a work of prose. We will also endeavor to tell you more stories about some of our local artists: people who can bring together the analytical and the emotional world in their work using whatever artistic medium they choose. They help us learn through their interpretations of life while allowing us to also find our own meaning, thus learning more about ourselves.

There are also lots of art and music related events going on in East Texas. April holds many great springtime events to attend. Don’t forget Art Walk in Downtown Longview on April 7. Please stop by our office and meet our staff as well as some very fine artists from all over East Texas. And don’t forget the Azalea Trail and Art in the Park at the GoodmanLeGrand museum in Tyler.

So, let’s get springtime going with lots of fun art and music related events. Like us on Facebook to keep up with the “art scene” in East Texas. We will keep posting news and events there so you don’t have to miss anything!

Take a breather, relax and read all the wonderful poems, prose, editorial and news this issue of Piney Woods Live has to offer!

- Tracy Magness Krell, Publisher

Help us support the arts!

Support our Piney Woods Live advertisers.

My brother, Steve, and me in 1960.

Page 02 - April 2011

news High School Students Urged to Apply for the ArtsView Children’s Theatre Scholarship Program The ArtsView Children’s Theatre College Scholarship Program is established for students who live in the greater Longview area. The students must currently be in attendance of a high school program. The ArtsView Children’s Theatre Board of Directors administers the annual ArtsView Children’s Theatre College Scholarship. The purpose is to identify and honor high school students and to aid as many as possible.

Eligible students will be completing secondary school or have graduated from high school, or have received their G.E.D and are U.S. citizens. High School students must apply during their senior year. Experience at ArtsView is not required, however will add favorably to the scoring outcome.

Each scholarship recipient must either enter an accredited U.S. college the following fall semester as a full-time student and pursue a course of study leading to either an associate of arts or baccalaureate degree or enter an accredited technical school.

All ArtsView Children’s Theatre scholarship recipient(s) will be chosen from submitted scholarship applications. Any interested student should submit a completed application by April 15, 2011.

An impartial committee will select the recipient(s) by evaluating each eligible student’s application. Applications will include grades, letters of reference, and one page essay.

Applicants will be judged on: preparedness to begin college or technical school, evidence of prior scholastic achievement, evidence of community involvement, including theatre related experiences, and clearly-stated educational objectives and career goals.

Scholarship recipient(s) will be selected without regard to financial need. The ArtsView Children’s Theatre scholarship will be a one-time payment determined by the ArtsView Children’s Theatre Scholarship Committee.

Go to artsviewchildrenstheatre.com to download an application.

Art Gathering in Hawkins The Hawkins Area Art Association is hosting an event called “Arts in the Park” which will be held on May 7, 2011 from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm at the City Park in Hawkins, Texas.

The president of the association, Holly Holland, owner of The Renewal Factory, had the idea that local artists and artisians could come together to exhibit their wares, demonstrate their work, and share it with the Hawkins and surrounding communities. Now, one full year later, it is coming to fruition for the first annual art faire for the City of Hawkins.

The artists will display their work throughout the park area (located behind the CNB bank). Works include painting to pottery and much more! The pavilion will host local musicians playing a wide variety of music from jazz to country to rock starting around noon with preformances into the evening. Action Sound’s owner Kelly Barber is coordinating the line up of musicians.

Jennifer McCrary, Harmony Art teacher, has taken charge of the children’s area and will include a shoe decorating contest and other activities for the younger crowd. Local storyteller, Dru Woods, will have preformances from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm.

There will be plenty of tasty things to enjoy as local food vendors will be set up around the pavillion offering a variety of eats and treats.

Come out and see what the artists of the Hawkins area are doing. It should prove to be an event which will satisfy those young and old and everything in between!

For more information, visit hawkinsareaart.com. If you are an artist who would like to participate in the show, please visit the website or contact Holly Holland at 903-769-4626.

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contents Art is defined as a product of deliberately arranging elements in a way that appeals to the senses or emotions.

Piney Woods Live

About the cover:

is an expression of the community it serves.

A little about our cover artist, Lisa Rachel Horlander I was barely older than a baby when I first started ‘drawing’ and haven’t given up the thrilling addiction since.

I love nature and pull most of my inspiration from the beauty that fills my heart with excitement from what I see. I paint mainly these days, but still enjoy filling paper up with drawings.

I like to try and combine my love for drawing with my enjoyment for painting. I also love expressing feelings through color, and so my art tends to be bright and full of wonderful color despite the color of my original inspiration.

I am a mother of a great little boy, and happy wife. I teach art lessons from my home, I try to be part of every art event I can find, and happily paint up what other people desire.

The first tweet is a sweet little painting (pocket sized) based off my doodling and love for birds. It actually took several attempts to get it to feel finished. The words I put on last and was happy with it. It is 5in x 4in and painted with acrylic paint on canvas.

You can email me at wentawall4u@yahoo.com, and I am on Facebook as Lisarachel.

The Art of the Written Word - Poetry by James Brady & Karen White Anger’s Hold

A Romance Writer’s Demise

Texas Weather, One morning!

Anger, I sense your presence, out of my attic’s trunk, your bonds broken, you emerge.

Night and day her pen raced across the pages.

The plume tickling her nose.

She stopped but once to glance out at the stars That twinkled on the face of the lake.

Her words were her life.

Her words created life.

Her characters were created by her.

At last she stopped the urgent scribbling to reread the last page “The End” it said, as she fell dead in the ink.

The skies grew dark at 10 a.m.

The clouds began to roll.

Great thunderheads of purple and gray gave reason for to pray.

Then lightning flashed and Thunder roared, the wind began to wail.

And then to top things off The sun came out at 12.

Oft’ have I not missed you, oft’ have I feared your return, anger, leave now, never come back.

Anger, you smell of mothballs, alas, into my thoughts you creep, my back, I turn to you, leave me.

Anger, I sense your presence, God’s Spirit within, I beseech thee, grant me grace to slay this demon.

- Karen White

- Karen White

- James Brady (Brady’s Coffee House, Tyler) February 2011

How to reach us: Call the American Classifieds’ Longview Office at 903-758-6900 or 800-333-3082. info@pineywoodslive.com Fax 903-758-8181 506 N. 2nd St., Longview, TX 75601

ArtsView Children’s Theatre’s High School Scholarship Program......... 2 Art Gathering in Hawkins ................................................................... 2 About Our Cover Artist, Lisa Rachel Horlander .................................. 3 Poetry by James Brady and Karen White.............................................. 3 Cultural Enrichment and Economic Growth ........................................ 4 Student Art Show ................................................................................ 4 The Singing Waitress ........................................................................... 5 The Chef’s Wife - Food, The Accessible Art .......................................... 6 Artist Profiles ................................................................................. 8 - 9 Artist Cheryl McClure ....................................................................... 10 Theater Spotlight by Emmitte Hall .................................................... 11 Beyond Mere Thoughts by Karen Dean.............................................. 12 Best In Show - LMFA Short Exposure ................................................ 12 Stained Glass Project ........................................................................ 13 Hunting Prize Final Rounds............................................................... 13 The 2011 University of Texas at Tyler Senior Exhibit.......................... 14 The “B” Side of Music - It’s Your Thing by Randy Brown ................... 15 Poetry by Gregory Zeorlin and Charlotte Blair .................................. 16 Poetry by Charlotte Blair, Jordan Bowen, and Becky Whisenant........ 17 Self Portraits of Alzheimer’s .............................................................. 18 ArtWalk Longview............................................................................. 19 Homegrown by Larry Tucker ............................................................. 20 Art in Artists’ Homes .................................................................. 21 - 22 Iced Tea - The Sweetness of Journey & Place ..................................... 23

Publishers / Editors Tracy Magness Krell & Gary Krell Advertising Director Gary Krell Public Relations Randi Garcia Contributing Writers James Brady, Karen White, Tom Callens, Jan Statman, LaDawn Fletcher, Amanda Retallack, Emmitte Hall, Karen Dean, Randy Brown, Gregory Zeorlin, Charlotte Blair, Jordan Bowen, Becky Whisenant, Larry Tucker, Astha Tuladhar Graphic Artists Tracy Krell, Joni Guess, Mary Hernandez Sales: Donna Vincent, April Harlow, Shannon Dykes, Denise Reid, Randi Garcia, Kathy Hollan, Cookie Bias, Tom Callens

Sign up for our newsletter by going to our website: PineyWoodsLive.com © 2011 by Piney Woods Live. All rights reserved. This publication, its associated website and their content is copyright of Piney Woods Live. Any reproduction of part or all of the contents in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

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April 2011 - Page 03

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culture Cultural Enrichment and Economic Growth by Tom Callens It is no secret that the key to building local prosperity is a communitywide effort to support economic growth and civic involvement. Mention those concepts and things like the BBB or The Chamber of Commerce spring to mind, but a few people are working to make art and culture a driving force for growing communities, both culturally and economically.

Tyler art consultant, Nora Schreiber, believes that economic growth, cultural education, and community involvement all work in tandem. Using her own time and resources, she works with these three tools to increase the prominence of Tyler‘s art community. She is currently a volunteer coordinator for Tyler’s Art in the Park event, April 16, and is growing in recognition for her many roles in the area art community. “I think it would be a shame for a city to have such a wealth of creative talent, and not have the opportunity to show it off,� Schreiber said.

While Schreiber has acted as a leader and taken the bull by the horns on this matter, she also believes in the importance of local business leaders and municipalities to maintain a nurturing attitude towards cultural and fine arts.

She pointed out that city officials in towns like Austin consistently encourage art education and evolvement. She also noted how the City of Longview has undergone an amazing transformation over the past few years.

Dietrich Johnson, Cultural Arts Liaison for the City of Longview, said he believes in playing a peripheral but active role in promoting artistic creativity and civic involvement. “We want to leave the artistic development to the artists,� Johnson said, “but we can do a lot to help by promoting events and encouraging groups within the art community to work together.�

Johnson explained that when a city like Longview expands it’s art and cultural base, it generates interest from both within and outside the community.

That sort of growth leads to a “multiplier effect� not only creating jobs, but also growing the tax base and consumer spending rates.

Johnson noted that cities with a thriving cultural and arts community provide a better quality of life for their citizens. Having the opportunity to go to the ballgame or a play on Saturday night provides people with a more enriching environment. “The key to the future is to work together,� Johnson said.

Take a moment to pause and envy Dietrich Johnson and Nora Schreiber, for they are fortunate to work towards a goal that enhances their lives, and their community.

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Page 04 - April 2011

news Student Art Show The 51st Annual Student Show opened March 26 at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts. Students from more than twenty area high schools were invited to participate in the exhibit. The works were judged by Raymond Daniel, former curator of the Art Museum of Southeast Texas in Beaumont, currently teaching at the University of North Texas. Awards were given in nine catagories. All student artwork will be displayed through April 30. The museum is located at 215 E. Tyler St. in Longview.

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music

Where Knowledge Saves You Money!

The Singing Waitress by Jan Statman If you loved watching the scene in the musical “Hello Dolly” where the singing waiters say Hello Dolly by breaking into glorious song, and if you would like to dine where you will hear the wait staff bring you beautiful music, you will probably think you need to climb aboard an airplane to travel to some huge city on the east or west coast. You may think about visiting such legendary places as Max’s at the Opera Café in San Francisco or traveling clear across the continent to Ellen’s Stardust Diner in New York City. The truth is that you do not need to travel to either coast because Longview has its very own singing waitress. Niki Whatley is the blonde girl with the big voice who will sing for you at Pat’s Diner in Longview. Whether it is breakfast time or lunchtime, all you need to do is ask.

Niki explains that the music came naturally to her. It was simply born into her heart. Her mother said her father had the most beautiful voice of anyone in their family. Sadly, he died when she was only six months old so that she never had the chance to hear her father sing. Even though she could not share her father’s songs, her life was always filled with music.

Her grandmother, Diane McDonald, along with her great-grandparents had a band which performed all over the Arklatex, from Atlanta, Texas to Nacogdoches, Louisiana. When she was hardly more than a baby, her great grandparents would sit her on the amp, and she would feel the music, attempting to sing and move with the sounds.

She loved to be with the band because, even as a young child, she understood how the sounds of their music would brighten people’s spirits when they played and sang.

At first, her grandmother would sing her songs with Niki. The two of them sang together until the little girl learned all the words and all the melodies. When she was only three years old, she had her first opportunity to sing on stage. “I remember it as though it was only yesterday,” she said. “It was at the Lynda Lay Baptist Church in Louisiana. My grandmother told me to stand up there and let the music flow out of me. I sang one of the old songs my grandmother had taught me. It was “Go tell it on the Mountain”.”

The people who heard her sing in the church that day all told her that her singing brought them happiness. They told her they loved her because she sang for them. Even at that early age it brought her joy to know that her music had somehow shared happiness with their lives.

She remembered how the band always wore brilliant, cheerful costumes in vibrant colors of rich oranges and yellows or purple and white. Although Niki enjoyed seeing the purple and white costumes, she described her favorite memories, which involved wearing bright red and white outfits with fringe and buckles. She had her own smaller version of the red and white costume with her very own small fringe and small buckles. As she grew a bit older, her great-grandparents would encourage her to sing with the band. The growing girl sang religious songs and children’s songs. Her grandmother would encourage her to allow the music to flow out of her heart. When she sang, it was always with the hope of bringing happiness to the people on the other side of the footlights, the welcoming smiles glowing in the audience.

Her love of music grew as she grew. Although she was young, she had years of performing experience, which helped her to become more confident in her abilities. Her songs expanded from simple children’s songs to more complex music, including patriotic songs, gospel songs and country western music. She counted among her favorites such songs as “Coal Miner’s Daughter” and “Daddy’s Hands.”

Her grandmother taught her the words and music to the old time Gospel song, “Beulah Land,” and told her that every time she sang that particular one she would always think of it as though the two of them were singing together. Niki makes it a point to sing “Beulah Land” as often as she can, and when she does she feels as though her grandmother’s spirit is standing right beside her, smiling and singing along with her. At those times, the music still flows out of her, whether she is singing at a restaurant or at a particular special occasion.

Her grandmother was a major influence in her life, encouraging her to understand that other people’s opinions could not and should not change her in any way, and that she always had to be who she was. Her grandmother persuaded her that her ability to sing came to her because she had been granted a God-given talent. She was the instrument and it was her responsibility to share her gift of song.

She has been fortunate to be able to share that gift of song with the people she meets.

She sings joyful songs at weddings and mournful songs at funerals. Her voice was heard at the Monster Truck Rally at the Longview Fairgrounds. She sings at Classic Car Shows in East Texas and at other occasions.

Nikki said, “I love people and it is my boundless joy that God gave me this talent and He allows me to be His instrument in bringing music into people’s hearts.”

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food The Chef’s Wife: Food, the Accessible Art by LaDawn Fletcher

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When I was a kid, I never tired of painting and drawing. It didn’t matter that my depictions were barely recognizable to anyone but me. I had a vision in my head of what would appear on that paper. I’d labor over my art projects, disappointed that I couldn’t make the viewer see what I saw. By junior high, when art was no longer a required subject, I gave up. I didn’t dare pick up the charcoal or the paintbrush. I sat back, watching others way more talented than I bring life to the images they saw in their own mind’s eye.

I considered that other than my frequent jaunts to museums, a life with an intimate relationship with art was beyond me. That is until I met my husband. While he can sing, and he can play instruments, it was his way with food that gave me an up close and personal opportunity to see art infused into every day activities.

For my husband, The Chef, food is the medium he chooses to express beauty to the world. I know, I know, it sounds presumptuous. But I’ve lived with this man for nine years, and whether he is whipping up something just for himself, or for a dinner party for 50, the same care and attention to detail is given.

The beauty of the meals he creates starts with the ingredients. He is baffled that I can’t “taste” how ingredients will interact with each other without actually putting it in my mouth. He can. Shortly after we married, he made me close my eyes and he placed a juicy, sweet pear slice with a smattering of St. Andres cheese in my mouth. It took me forever to open my eyes, they had rolled to the back of my head. He knew those two flavors would be magnificent together.

But it isn’t enough to make the food taste good, he also makes the food gorgeous. The colors of the

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greens and the meat pop on the plate. He presents the food in creative ways. Even if he eats alone, it has a purposefully, artfully arranged garnish. For a nanosecond, I sometimes consider that what he has placed before me is too pretty to eat…nahhhhh! Who am I kidding?

But what I like most about the idea of food as art is that I, an enthusiastic lover of art and artists, can somehow mimic the work being done by real artists, without diminishing the hard work that goes into it. In fact, in the case of food, I’m invited to do so by way of recipes.

Fabulous chefs and food scientists slave away developing wonderful dishes from all kinds of cuisine with the hope that I’ll try to recreate it at home.

The art world equivalent is paint by numbers and karaoke contests. Sure, there are some breakout performances, but overwhelmingly it is a poor, poor, substitute.

But that isn’t necessarily the case with cooking. Even if I don’t rustle up a free-range chicken, and the finest churned European butter like the chef who created it used, what I do create is often a thing of beauty. The aromas that waft through the house are the equivalent of the musicians in the symphony tuning their instruments before the first movement begins.

As I plate the food, I can’t help but think, “What would The Chef husband do?” So I take a little time to arrange a little parsley, or put it in the pretty bowl. I’m not a natural born food talent, but I’m definitely an artist in training.

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April 2011 - Page 07

artists artist profiles

Carol Pace

Mike Acoustic

Carol Pace is a working artist with years of experience. She is from Hot Springs, Arkansas but has lived in Texas over 40 years. Carol works mainly in watercolors but also works in other mediums as well. You will see that she enjoys many subjects and a variety of color to create her loose style.

Pet Portraits are among her best known works.

Carol has won many awards as well as being named one of the Top 100 Artists in America in La Jolla, California, placing 2nd in this prestigious exhibit. Carol works at her studio daily and welcomes those who come. www.therwm.com/BCP or contact her at 903-926-6250 Mike Acoustic, named Michael Gonzalez, is a solo artist who was born in Kingsville, Texas. He began his singing career at age 16 holding various stage names in many cities. His vocal adaptability comes by performing a wide range of musical styles such as folk, blues, pop, country, jazz and rock. In the 90’s, he joined an acoustic duo with fellow Texan, Michael Kusheba, now in Florida with the band “Like Shine.” The duo also formed several trios, and four piece bands.

He currently performs in many live music venues and resides in Tyler, Texas.

Article submissions: Articles are accepted and reviewed by a panel.

Photos may accompany articles. Space, relevance, writing and appropriateness play a huge part in the decision making process. Individual artists are more likely to have fewer than 100 words plus a photo published. Deadlines are the 5th of the month prior to publication.

Randy Martin Ever since I saw the movie “Twister”, kinetic art has taken me over. My name is Randy Martin and I am mesmerized by balance and movement. I’m not the only one; there seems to be a surge of artists working in this art form pioneered many years ago by artists like Alexander Calder. A few of the many things I make are table top and landscape sculptures. Sometimes fish are my preferred theme, because no matter how weird you make them, there will always be something on the bottom of the ocean that looks just like it.

My wife, Sherri, and I are owners of The Flying Fish Gallery in Ben Wheeler.

Page 08 - April 2011

https://www.facebook.com/MikeAcousticMusic mikeacoustic@live.com 903-539-1550

Ruth Drayer I grew up in Washington, DC, have lived throughout the southwest and in India. I am new to Tyler.

My background is in sculpture, and I have come to painting out of my love for color. Color, texture and design are what I’m painting. Each brushstroke is as important to me as notes are to a composer.

I choose acrylics because they allow me to paint layers over layers which builds the piece up and gives a multi-dimensional appearance. The ideas come from my intuition; a piece is completed when the harmony and rhythm please me. This piece is titled Dance of The Divine. www.ruthdrayer.com

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artists Don Bristow Don Bristow synthesizes advances in imaging technology with his passion for photography and mathematics to create large scale mathematical renderings that enhance business environments and inspire creative thinking. The renderings are called Chaotica, a name derived from the Chaos Theory, the field of mathematics that shows random chaotic events to be structured patterned happenings. Chaotica is a union of two things. First is Don’s search for Strange Attractors in solutions to differential, recurrence and even random equations that have surprising and beautiful outcomes. He then captures those outcomes as extremely high-resolution digital image files. Second is AluminArte, the innovative medium from Image Wizards which is unmatched by any other medium for color brilliance and finish.

Finished pieces are typically 48” x 48” and can be viewed by appointment in the artist’s Bullard home. Chaotica has been exhibited at the Arlington Museum of Art, Fort Worth Community Arts Center, Mary Tomas Studio Gallery in Dallas and Gallery Main Street in Tyler.

Please visit www.lightrayphotoimagery.com for more information.

Mileah Hall “Creating works of art, fine art or decorative art is my passion. My beginnings in art go back to when I was ten years old taking private art lessons. Currently, I am a fine art graduate student at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA. Through my artwork, I hope that I will be able to share the beauty of God’s world with you in a way that will bring you comfort when you are down, remind you of the joys you have experienced in your life and encourage you to develop your talents as well.”

Chelsea King STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Seventeen year old junior from Pine Tree High School, Chelsea King, says, “Theatre makes you into a whole new person. It pushes you to step outside of your comfort zone and can bring out characteristics that you never knew you had inside.” From the time she was an elementary student attending Letourneau drama camp, Chelsea has developed a passion for the stage. From Junior High One Act to high school productions, Chelsea has enjoyed the times that have taken her on a creative journey that included going to state as part of the OAP cast of “A View From the Bridge” her freshman year. Theatre has given her the opportunity to try new challenges such as auditioning for a lead musical role and getting the part. Her Precision Drill Team training has enabled her to contribute her skills as choreographer to productions. She looks forward to whatever lies ahead for her on stage.

CeCe Bode I have been drawn to clay and stones for thirty years. I create mosaic art using raw stoneware clay. In making my tiles I have developed glaze formulas of rich jewel tones, swirls and textures as well as vibrant and striking colors which sets my work apart from others. I love to incorporate found objects and polished stones in my work as well. Cher has a large collection of my mosaic crosses. I am affiliated with the following galleries: P’s Gallery, Flying Fish Gallery, Bishop Street Gallery, Gallery Main Street. and Authenticity Gallery 903.806.4003 cecebode@cablelynx.com flickr.com/photos/cecebode

MileahHall.com

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April 2011 - Page 09

art Artist Cheryl McClure by Amanda Retallack

Schedule of Events April 2 Masque Ball April 2 - 3 Fairy Tales April 9 (9pm to Midnight) Bacchanalia Feast with the Dream Harem April 9 - 10 Age of Discovery April 16 - 17 Highland Fling April 23 - 24 Knights and Chivalry April 24 Special Observance of Easter Sunday

Jed Marum

Brigit Drake Hammer Dulcimer

Byron T Bear

Nun Comedy Show

Colonel Walter Butler’s Dragoons

Pirate Magician Captain Thom Bedlam

Dream Haven Belly Dancers

Artisans, Comedians, Pirates 21852 CR 2178 • Troup, TX www.fourwindsfaire.com

Page 10 - April 2011

Artist Cheryl McClure takes a slow Sunday drive through the winding hills surrounding her Overton home. As she makes her way past tall trees, small creek beds and fields that seem to go for miles, Cheryl sees beautiful textures, patterns and, ultimately, paintings.

Where a farmer sees his livelihood in rural East Texas, Cheryl sees inspiration for her next piece of artwork.

“My work isn’t a recreation of just one scene,” she said. “It’s my interpretation of the culmination of land and landscapes around me.”

As Cheryl began describing the history of her progress as an artist, it was clear that the process of wandering back through years of artistic expression proved to be an interesting exercise.

The mediums, methods and styles have shifted as she has shifted through a life that has been measured and influenced by, among other things, art.

With no formal training in her background — save her years in elementary school when all little girls and boys picked up paintbrushes in art class — Cheryl grew artistically through reading, workshops and observations. Her greatest learning experience came from her ten years as a volunteer at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts.

“That was an extraordinary education for me,” Cheryl recalled. “I gave a lot as a volunteer, but I got a lot out of it, as well. So many artists with so many styles … you can’t put a price on that kind of education.”

Looking back through her years of work, it would be hard for her to point at just one period of her decades-long career that she would mark as her “favorite.” Yet looking at a rich layered watercolor landscape finished months prior, Cheryl would smile, recalling the moment in time that piece meant the world to her.

“An artist’s favorite piece is usually the one they’re working on right now,” she said. “My work has changed throughout the years, but not so much that it’s not recognizable as my own.

I’ve dabbled in different mediums, enjoyed different textures, but I always stay true to my art and what I know I’m good at and enjoy.”

Though Cheryl is very much a social butterfly and involved in the East Texas art scene, she and husband Curry prefer the quiet life outside of the big city. They live in a ranch house near Overton/New London that once belonged to Curry’s parents.

“This old place was built before there was ever even a Texas,” Cheryl said of her home. “We lived in Longview for 41 years and had been coming here to visit relatives all our married life.

We inherited it from Curry’s parents. It’s like part of the family.”

What Cheryl loves most about her rustic home perched on 200 acres, besides the privacy, is her three-room garage apartmentturned-studio. In a way, it compliments her craft.

“There are lots of windows in this 900-square-foot of space, which is perfect for painting for two reasons: It lets in lots of light, and I get to see nature wherever I turn,” she said.

“We have animals — cows, deer, coyotes, and industrious beavers at the creek — but we also have beautiful land as far as the eyes can see.”

“As a matter of fact,” she added with a knowing smile, “Johnson Creek runs right outside my door.”

That creek, she said, was her muse for the very painting that could win her the coveted Hunting Art Prize.

Cheryl is on the short list of finalists for the prestigious Hunting Art Prize. She is one of 113 finalists chosen for the honor.

“I’ve entered in the past with no call backs, so I was pretty shocked when I got an e-mail congratulating me as being a finalist,” she said. “It feels great to be in the running!”

More than 1,500 submissions were narrowed down to include Cheryl’s work. One winner will take home the $50,000 prize April 30 in Houston.

“The particular piece I entered this year is one that I just finished working on in October 2010,” she said. “That time of the year is so very green and alive over here at the ranch, and I was moved to paint my interpretation of the fall.”

With Johnson Creek as her starting point, Cheryl began painting an acrylic wonderland dominated by soft shades of blues, greens and oranges. For two months she worked to make this piece something to be proud of. But an entry into one of the most prestigious art contests in Texas? An afterthought.

“I paint with an open mind and allow myself to do whatever the painting wants me to do,” she said.

“Painting without any real result in mind is freeing from preconceptions of what it will turn out to be. If I started out with a goal in mind, I wouldn’t feel like I was being successful.”

She plans to attend the Houston gala in hopes that her “Green Day, Johnson Creek” will take home the big prize.

“I already know what I’ll do with my winnings — I’ll extend my studio!” she exclaimed. “I don’t know of any artist who has enough room … we need all the space we can.”

Cheryl is one artist who leads a very colorful life. She has been showing her work in local, regional and international exhibits since 1989, and has graced the cover of several award-winning poetry books, as well as the second edition of “The New Creative Artist”

by Nita Leland. Her work can currently be seen at Longview’s P’s Gallery, or, if you’re traveling to distant galleries in the near future, you can see Cheryl’s pieces hanging from the walls at Gallery Mack in Seattle, WA; Harrington Brown Gallery in Memphis, TN; or Jackson Street Gallery in Ridgewood, MS. She is also scheduled to teach her very first workshop, Abstract: The Process, from June 21-24 at the Artist’s Showplace Gallery in Dallas.

“This is my very first class to teach, and I’m very excited about the opportunity,” Cheryl said. “It will allow me to demonstrate the processes I go through in painting, but most importantly, I will help new artists find their own process.”

While she’s not too confident that this first teaching role will lead her down the path of mentoring aspiring artists, one thing’s for sure: She’ll never put her paintbrushes down.

“Artists never retire; I will never retire,” she said. “Wherever I go, whatever I’m doing colors what my art becomes.

It’s hard to do anything else but think about my next piece – it consumes me.”

For more information, visit www.cherylmcclure.com

PineyWoodsLive.com

theater Theater Spotlight by Emmitte Hall Theater is alive and well in East Texas. From Broadway productions by professional traveling theater groups to outstanding performances by community theater and local high schools and colleges, the great plays of our times can be experienced in our own backyard.

Theater Spotlight will highlight local playwrights, actors, plays and theater groups from around East Texas. Each issue of Piney Woods Live will provide details about upcoming productions and auditions, so stay tuned so you don’t miss a minute.

Educational Theater Local high schools and area colleges with theater departments offer a glimpse of future talent to come with exciting one act plays, light theater and musicals. Tyler Junior College has one of the best drama programs in the region producing comedies, musicals and dramatic theater. The quality of many of these productions should not limit audience members to simply family members, friends and students vying for an “A” in their English classes.

Professional Theater The Cowan Center in Tyler and the S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center in Longview present traveling professional theater groups with such timeless musicals as Cats, Mama Mia, Fiddler on the Roof, and Oklahoma. The Texas Shakespeare Festival in Kilgore is in their 25th season of presenting what many describe as the finest Shakespeare festival in the region. Professional actors, directors, set designers and theater professionals from around the country come to Kilgore each summer to present Shakespeare, Molière, Rostand, Wilde, Shaw, Williams and others as well as children’s theater and musicals. This summer they will present Shakespeare’s Hamlet and the hilarious Taming of the Shrew as well as the musical Earnest in Love and the classic comedy TheBeaux’ Stratagem. Check out http://www.texasshakespeare.com for dates, times and tickets.

Saturday, May 7, 2011 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Located at Hawkins City Park Hwys. 14 & 80, Behind CNB Bank

Community Theater “There are an estimated seven thousand community theatres in towns across the United States,” says Julie Crawford, executive director of the American Association of Community Theatres. Longview, Quitman, Palestine, Athens, Jasper, Texarkana, Rusk, Mineola, Winnsboro and many other surrounding communities offer a wide range of plays starring enthusiastic, local talent presenting great plays at a reasonable price. So instead of sitting in the dark, eating overpriced popcorn to see Hollywood’s latest formulaic flavor of the week, check out live theater where anything can happen and usually does. Upcoming productions from theaters around East Texas include Driving Miss Daisy, The Giver, 1776, Cheaper by the Dozen, Come Blow Your Horn and Chorus Line.

Email us at: hawkinsareaartassociation@gmail.com For application information, visit us on the web at: hawkinsareaart.com

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April 2011 - Page 11

writing & news Beyond Mere Thoughts By Karen Dean When I meet someone new and tell them I have three published books that I wrote and illustrated, immediately the door swings wide open for conversation. It amazes me to hear the heart’s cry of so many who carry a story deep inside. Some have no concept what to do with their ideas or who to talk to. When I briefly explain my journey into publishing, their pent up desire and frustration comes pouring out because they know I understand. They are often too fearful to share this information with others, because their fragile dreams might get crushed to bits.

These stories, which are as diverse as the people I encounter, range from adorable toddler tales to adventures, mysteries, dramas, romance, poetry, educational, inspirational, memoirs, and more. Some have just a slight idea of what they might write about but never took it beyond that initial thought. Others have a full-blown concept they’ve developed over the years, but tucked it away in a drawer because they had no clue what to do. Then there are the few whose stories are currently and fluently evolving.

My advice to most of them is to do something with their mere thoughts. The ideas must be coming to them for a reason. Maybe someone else needs to read what they’ve written. If they just sit on it, then there’s no hope in ending up with a book.

My first publisher sat on my Let’s Go… travel series for three years without publishing one book. After overwhelming frustration and discouragement, my husband and I took over and self-published the first book in about six months.

As a result of taking action, one step at a time, I’ve sold almost 5000 copies of Let’s Go to Mackinac Island.

What about you? Are your ideas trapped? Find something to inspire you. Go to the library or bookstore, and read other books in your genre. Read books about writing.

Next month I’ll be more specific on resources to guide you along your way.

Jimmy Salmon Wins Best of Show in LMFA Photo Contest Jimmy Salmon won Best of Show for his still life photographs in the Longview Museum of Fine Arts Short Exposure contest and exhibition in March.

Salmon describes his work, based on 17th century Dutch still life paintings, as follows: “The Dutch in this era made beautiful use of light and composition. By trying to duplicate the old Dutch feel in these photographs, I am able to study the old masters and hopefully learn to use their soft but focused lighting and composition in a similar manner.

The backgrounds in these photographs were hand painted, duplicating colors commonly used at the time.”

Second place winner was Paul Greenberg, and third place winner was John Bridges. Forty-eight local and regional photographers participated in the show which was juried by Prince Varughese Thomas, an artist and associate professor of art at Lamar University in Beaumont, TX. Short Exposure is an annual event for the museum, and photographers should expect a call for entries to be issued in January of 2012.

Visit Karen’s website to view her fine art watercolor and oil painting gallery: www.KarenDeanArtist.com

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Page 12

A comic concoction based on a dinner party where four snazzily-dressed couples gather at the home of Charles and Myra Brock to celebrate the 10th wedding anniversary of their hosts. But Charles is lying upstairs with a bullet hole in his ear lobe and Myra is nowhere to be seen! We are pitched headlong into high-voltage hilarity as the couple’s friends try frantically to protect their host (who is Deputy Mayor of New York) and themselves by hiding the evening’s events from the outside world.

May 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 7:30 pm (Except May 21 - 2:00 pm)

903-882-3234 www.rosepath.net

A farcical play by Neil Simon

Spinning

Main Street Theatre 227 Main Street • Sulphur Springs

PineyWoodsLive.com

news The Stained Glass Project Light came streaming into the east windows making it difficult for Pastor Jeff Borgwardt of First Lutheran Church of Longview, Texas to see his sermon notes on Sunday mornings. Also having difficulty was Lou Bass, Music Director, who had to move his music around to accommodate for the glare and brightness. Congregation members were also experiencing difficulties with the brightness during service times. Something had to be done to control the incoming light in the five year old sanctuary. Something effective had to be done that would enhance worship and be visually pleasing in the space.

Progress toward solving the lighting problems was suggested by designing and installing stained glass windows that would support Christian themes and be aesthetically pleasing. After a survey of the talent among the church members, a group who had experience in stained glass crafting was gathered to build the new windows. Sonia Stephens of Crafters Glass Garden Inc. of Longview was commissioned to help design the windows with members of the group and she was asked to help provide the supplies.

In March 2010, the stained glass window making group started by building the first three windows over the alter area, calling this Phase I. This set of windows was completed by Easter. Work to install these windows came to a disappointing halt when framing difficulties arose. While the group continued to work on the Phase II set of windows, wood frames that matched the sanctuary interior were made. The initial success was a great encouragement for the group who ultimately made thirteen windows for the space.

To defray the cost of the window framing, glass crosses made from the shards of the glass used in making the windows were sold as Christmas ornaments. Group member Susan Kay Smith noticed that the shard crosses were showing up at the Sunday morning services being worn by church members. “It was as though many of our church family wanted to participate in our stained glass window project too,” said Smith. The windows were built in Smith’s barn where the group worked in both cold weather and hot summer time heat. The installation of the thirteen windows has greatly helped with lighting problems in the sanctuary space. Each window contains a cross with one different Christian symbol that expresses sacred themes meaningful for worship.

A special service to dedicate the windows was done on March 20, 2011, with special music and explanations of the meaning of the symbols in the windows. The members of First Lutheran Church invite others to come and visit and see their new stained glass windows. The church’s address is 3901 Bill Owens Parkway, Longview, Texas. The church’s telephone number is (903) 295-7423.

Artists Move to Final Round of Hunting Art Prize Hunting PLC has announced that 113 Texas artists have been selected to move on to the final round of judging in the 2011 Hunting Art Prize.

Among the finalists are Piney Woods artists Anup Bhnadari of Longview and Cheryl McClure of Overton.

These artists now enter the second phase of the two-tiered jury process for the Prize. The panel of jurors will reconvene in April to determine the winner.

The $50,000 Hunting Art Prize is historically the most generous annual award in North America for painting and drawing. The recipient will be announced at the April 30, 2011 gala at the Friedkin Corporate Campus, Gulf States Toyota, in Houston.

Downtown Market and Brown Bag Lunch Unite in Heritage Plaza The Spring Brown Bag lunch concert series and Downtown Market resumed Friday, March 25 and runs each Friday through May 6, 2011 with the exception of Good Friday. Both of the events are held at Heritage Plaza at the corner of Green and Methvin Street in downtown Longview.

This marks the second year for Downtown Market. This event comes from the Main Street Promotion Committee. The job of the Promotion Committee is to promote downtown as the center of commerce, culture, and community life for residents and visitors alike. The idea is to add to the current event helping make Downtown – The Place To Be. Select vendors offering local products, fresh fruits and vegetables, jewelry and an array of arts and crafts will give our guests in downtown a chance to make purchases from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm.

The Brown Bag concert series will feature entertainment on the plaza from 12 noon until 1:00 pm. Relax and listen, bring a friend, a lawn chair and enjoy an entertaining Friday lunch in the plaza showcasing quality entertainment. The Friday Lunch Concert Series features something for every musical taste. Lunch is available for purchase from Texas Best Smokehouse.

The Brown Bag lunch concert series and the Downtown Market promotes the community by attracting people to downtown while inviting those who work downtown to remain for lunch programs.

Gold Leaf Gallery cordially invites you to a

Special Opening Night exhibiting the fabulous & fine work of glass artist Cassie Edmonds Friday, April 8, 2011 • 5:00-8:00 pm

Exhibiting April 8th - May 8th 4518 S. Broadway French Quarter Shopping Center, Tyler

903-597-2645 GoldLeafGallery.com

PineyWoodsLive.com

April 2011 - Page 13

music April is National Guitar Month!

ALL GUITARS & AMPs ON SALE!

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS!

3532 S. Broadway Ave. TYLER 903-561-8828 www.mundtmusictyler.com

Come in and register for our FREE GUITAR GIVEAWAY!

Musicians Bulletin Board Experienced Drummer 903-806-3636

Ask for Bobby. Contemp., Rock, Blues, and Ctry.

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Richard Denson. Bass Harmony/Lead Vocals.

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Senior Exhibition 2011, common-oddity Eight art students will be featured in the University of Texas at Tyler, Department of Art and Art History Senior Exhibition, common-oddity. These eight artists include: Emily McKinley, collage; Jordan Crabill, mixed media; Estevan Guerra, painting; Simon Saleh, sculpture; Donnie Weaver, painting; Kourtney Hughes, sculpture; Suzie Shewmake, collage; and Alicia Conway, sculpture.

In addition to working toward the senior exhibition, which is the capstone of their undergraduate career, this prestigious group of students has had their work exhibited in numerous juried exhibitions.

Some of the students are also looking into graduate programs to continue their education upon graduation from The University of Texas at Tyler in the spring.

Common-oddity will be on display at the Meadows Gallery on the University of Texas at Tyler campus from April 11 – April 22. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. The students will present their work in the form of a gallery talk on Tuesday, April 12 and Wednesday, April 13 at 12:30 pm in the Meadows Gallery. An opening gallery reception will be held on Thursday, April 15 from 7-9 pm. This event is open to the public and food and entertainment will be provided; business attire is requested.

For more information, contact Ray Sikes at (903) 566-7237 or rsikes@uttyler.edu.

Looking for Band. Just moved to town from Florida. Looking for Ctry. Band. 13 yrs. exp.

Call Justin Brown.

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What people are saying on Facebook “Hey Piney Woods Live Magazine... We got so many positive comments on the great photos of the band. We have really enjoyed the pictures and comments. Great job. Thanks again. James Martin” - The Hard 2 Git Bluegrass Band

Page 14 - April 2011

(From left to right, top: Alicia Conway, Donnie Weaver, Emily McKinley, Estevan Guerra; bottom: Jordan Crabill, Kourtney Hughes, Simon Saleh, Suzie Shewmake)

PineyWoodsLive.com

music The “B” Side of

by Randy Brown “It’s Your Thing!”

“It’s your thing Do what you wanna do I can’t tell you Who to sock it to” “It’s Your Thing” – Written and performed by the Isley Brothers

Music

This month’s lyric quote and column theme comes from the Isley Brothers’ late 60’s release, “It’s Your Thing. “ This was pretty much an alien concept in the 50’s and early 60’s, when the country’s mantra was “conform, conform, conform”. While the counter-culture movement was well underway, it had yet to permeate into the “radio” culture of middle-America. This was an interesting song at an interesting time, as the spirit of the 60s social revolution was finding its way even into top 40 radio. It embodied the spirit of doing things your own way. Well, isn’t that a coincidence; because that is exactly what we are going to be talking about this month.

The music business is like any other; focus counts. What I mean by that is that you need to specialize to some degree in order to separate yourself from the pack, narrow your view or pick a niche market; however you want to say it. I am going to be talking about music, because that is what I know, but this applies to all art equally, I think.

Unless you are the new Michelangelo, I seriously doubt that you excel in every aspect of your art. You might be a great player but not a singer or a writer but not a player; I think you get my drift. The same goes for bands. You might be great at covers, but have no really compelling originals; again I think you see where I’m headed, don’t you? You need to determine your strengths, weaknesses and goals, then decide how to proceed; create a niche.

The ideal niche is what you like AND what you are good at. If you do great klezmer style covers of Led Zeppelin tunes and you are passionate about them, then that could be your niche. Not a particularly broad-based niche, I admit, but certainly one that you can become well known for in the “huge” klezmer-Zep market, playing bar mitzvahs for baby boomer grandparents. Whatever you do, you have to stand out. For example, you might say that my niche is acoustic songs about ideas, philosophy and science. Narrow, yes, but since that is what I enjoy, it is easy for me to wrap my mind around how to proceed, where to and where not to book shows and which songs to record or perform. I can promise you that tiny bit of knowledge is responsible for my becoming an overnight hundred-aire in the business.

A very important point to make about your niche is that you need to “be” your niche. What I mean by that is to embrace it with everything you have. Dress like it, act like it, smell like it, breathe like it; I mean LIVE IT to the hilt. Exude your niche.

That means that your niche can’t be some random thing you thought up, it has to be you. It really needs to be the distillation of every aspect of your personality, focused and intensified like a laser. Do it well enough and pretty soon others will start imitating you. When that happens, it means you were successful. After all, as they say; “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”

While I’m at it, never ever apologize or make excuses for your niche, not ever, no matter what. After all, if it is the real you then why should you ever be ashamed of that? Now, I am not naïve enough to believe that is not sometimes difficult.

For example, imagine you are playing a gig and someone who has no clue who you are or what you do comes and asks you to play “Silver Wings,” for example. Now there is nothing wrong with “Silver Wings,” I personally played it every night for an untold number of years, but it is no longer a part of my niche. So, when this happens, do you apologize for not playing the song they asked for? NEVER!! Pick something out of your repertoire that you think comes as close to their request as possible, and play it. Don’t make excuses, simply do it with grace and style. If the patrons don’t understand art, then it is time they were educated.

So to sum it all up, figure out what makes you unique then build and focus on those aspects of your art. Make all your judgments about what to play, who to play for and how to conduct yourself based on that focus and BINGO, you have created your niche. I can’t tell you who to sock it to, but never forget, it’s your thing!

By the way, if you have comments, suggestions or criticisms about this or any of my columns, feel free to send them to me: randy@brownrandy.com If you ever simply get curious about what the heck this rambling old man does then go to www.reverbation.com/brownrandy. Listen to a few songs, and let me know what you think. This article and all the past B-Sides are archived at my website www.brownrandy.com .

See you next issue.

Randy Brown is a small business owner and singer/songwriter living in East Texas and has been involved with many sides of the music business over the years, from being a sideman, a sound man, touring songwriter, operating a venue, and a recording studio owner/engineer.

PineyWoodsLive.com

April 2011 - Page 15

poetry Hear Me When I could call you we’d talk about the weather.

In the spring we talked about the blooms to come.

In my yard, dogwoods bloom, Bradford pear trees, too.

And look at those tender green leaves I must describe in detail to you.

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But now I call you in silence and talk without a phone.

Night or day it doesn’t matter I know you hear me.

Gregory Zeorlin 03/13/2011 (Sunday) 8:30am

Swell A cold rain is falling wooden furniture will swell and split cushions absorb and stain that old stereo will never play again all those books will fall apart.

There’s no turning back now a cold rain is falling on all the things of yours we tossed if you were alive you’d be so cross you would have died.

All those things from your home piled in a massive rusting bin your worldly things all those dreams soon hauled away just like you in a few more days.

Gregory Zeorlin 3/8/11 6:14am

Continue “She looks good,” they tell me.

“She looks dead” is what I want to reply but instead I nod my head mumbling senseless words to move on with getting over.

I do not dwell on her features of the before and after like someone trying to critique I focus on memories of the before.

Imagine her wide open smile, eyebrows raised high, hands extended inviting a hug followed by a kiss from those she loves.

This I will miss and a poem cannot preserve what is forever gone.

But this poem will slowly erode the coffin holding her after.

Eventually, I will imagine her waiting at some door inviting me in to some place we all prepare for.

903-663-4254

Page 16 - April 2011

My Emotions A franna what ma lala frinna ca biggle lo maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa wo balala hu blu blu ko

And her arms will comfort me just as my arms will eventually comfort others as she showed me so we may love every day until the end.

Brain...non existent.

Voice not working.

Unsure of words supposed to use.

Words can’t come out properly.

Noises only way to express: franannawana wa ba ba ba

Gregory Zeorlin 3/11/11 (Around midnight)

Charlotte Blair

PineyWoodsLive.com

poetry The Thundertorm TA lone figure stands in a field.

Arms out-stretched to the rain that falls with her tears.

She smiles.

The tears increase.

Her eyes close and slowly she begins to spin round and around.

Water is thrown in all directions.

Wheat colored hair sticks to her face.

Lightening rockets across the sky followed by an almighty crash.

She slips as it vibrates through her body.

As she falls backwards into the orange mud lightening flashes closer.

Her small hands reach towards it as if it would pull her back up.

Mud sprays upwards, falling back down on her clean body.

She stays down, staring into the black clouds.

Her tears cease flowing as she eagerly watches, waiting to see the white lightening.

Charlotte Blair

roar of god The day is deranged, the sunlight rails against me and the Victorian brood balk with painted pleasantry but the dregs descend on the damp, trashed night they curse and they howl and like dogs, they fight.

Wind stirs waves in the puddled brine, rain soaks the centuries the color of wine.

An old man, ruined, hears a jet and nods, “Ah,” he says, “the roar of God.” Jordan Bowen

Prairie Painting It is a golden summer afternoon And the setting sun is at its most benevolent moment.

On a journey across the prairie We pass a block behind a stark white building As cars and people gather for church.

Across the vacant lot I see four or five Assorted lanky men, clad in denim and cotton, Leaning in various poses of male waiting Against the back of the clapboard two-story building.

I hear the splick of tobacco hit the dust at their feet.

Children are grouped behind an invisible line at the side, Bouncing, running, interacting with the urgency Of impending decorum.

The timeless continuity of the people Ripples through the openness toward me.

The innocence of the children shimmers in the air Between them and me like heat waves I can see and feel on my skin.

Their excited cries of play and laughter float Over to my ears.

Faint organ music draws everything into order.

Like organized notes on the staff evoking a melody, These images and sounds evoke a resonance in me.

My heart is stirred by this tableau, and, in this moment, Everything stops.

The car I ride in moves on, taking my body with it; But this place in time becomes more than a moment.

It imprints on the fiber of my being like a Dutch painting, With images so potent they hold you Without apology or explanation.

It holds a place in me still and I go back there at will And step into it and Sigh.

Becky Whisenant

SAFE HAVEN EQUINE RESCUE 2nd Annual

MAY CELEBRATION Celebrating 11 Years of Horse Rescues

SATURDAY • MAY 7 • 9AM-6PM There will be LIVE MUSIC all day, vendors & clinics, food & more to come.

For information on Vendor spaces or Sponsorship, please call

903-762-1432

or email us at: safehavenrescue@etex.net

PineyWoodsLive.com

It is unique to find a city such as Longview, that has such a vibrant arts community – a ballet, opera, symphony orchestra, symphonic band, art museum, historical museum, and a children’s theatre group! With such widespread support and dreams for the future, the arts in Longview continue to flourish and it is by working together to promote our creative resources that will enhance the arts community for everyone.

Visit us online at

www.artslongview.org for a complete Calendar of Events!

Presents

4th Annual Arrfff-Fest, now called

SATURDAY APRIL 30, 2011 10AM – 4PM Critter Parade 10am – 12pm • Certified Therapy Ferrets • Booths & Auction • Adopt-a-Pet All Day A-Pet, SPCA and Winnsboro Animal Shelter will have adoptable pets at Main and Broadway

• Face Painting • Pet Picasso Art • Tricks & Costume Contest • Pet Art & Pet Photo Contest www.WinnsboroCenterForTheArts.com 200 Market St. • Winnsboro, TX 75494

903-342-0686

April 2011 - Page 17

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Page 18 - April 2011

Despite advancements in medical technology, Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease is sadly no stranger to most American families. The American Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association estimates that 5.4 million people suffer from it in this country alone.

It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for up to 80 percent of known cases.

No one seems to know the fundamental causes of the disease, only that it destroys the brainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to send and receive signals normally.

In the average person, this leads to confusion and often an inability to effectively communicate using written or spoken words.

But William Utermohlen proved to be a different case. He did not use conventional language to express himself during his battle with Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Instead, he used a series of self portraits.

Born in Philadelphia in 1933, Utermohlen made a career out of the study and practice of art. He graduated from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in 1957, the first step in his notable career.

The postwar years of the 1950s brought about a revolution in American art. Abstract expressionism was the newest trend, fueled by artists who fled the European continent during Hitlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oppressive occupation in the previous decade.

Utermohlen studied under Walter Stuempfig at The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. Stuempfig was held as one of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most notable realist painters. Apparently, his greatness was not wasted on Utermohlen, who went on to study at Oxfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prestigious Ruskin School of Art for the two years following his graduation. He married an art historian, and lived in London most of his professional life.

Utermohlen was officially diagnosed with Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease at 61 years of age, but it was suspected that he had been suffering some years before then. The self portraits he produced, between the mid 90s and his death in 2007, became a point of interest to the medical community.

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quickly disables the right posterior of the brain, the area that recreates previously seen images, effectively short circuiting basic memory.

However, the parietal lobe is a part of the brain

that integrates sensory input, and is affected very late in Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s progression. The parietal lobe is stimulated by visual input, like color, and can provide an alternate route for a patient to recall information from past experiences. In other words, it can store information in a place untouched by Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and is often stimulated through creating and viewing visual art.

Utermohlenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art provides a slim window into his mind during a slow moving battle with a devastating disease, but it is important to remember art is often difficult to interpret. Some of his pieces convey a sense of entrapment, or loneliness. His later pieces seem to show that the effects of the disease prevented him from producing an accurate self portrait. At least that is what one might believe at first glance. Keep in mind that Utermohlen could have exercised expressionism, painting how he viewed himself.

Again, it is difficult to know why an artist suffering from this type of dementia would create what he did. It could have been limited motor skills, the way he viewed himself as the disease progressed, or the way he thought others might perceive him.

People trained to illustrate comics are taught to wear whatever expression they are attempting to draw. In Utermohlenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, his art provides us with an alternate method of understanding his plight than more common forms of communication. At any rate, there is no doubt that creating art improved his quality of life and the lives of the people his art has touched.

PineyWoodsLive.com

news ArtWalk Longview Slated for April 7th ArtWalk Longview has over a dozen participating spaces scheduled for Thursday, April 7, from 5 - 8 pm and for the first time ArtWalk will host a film screening of three short documentaries, Heal Our World, starting at 8pm at the Gregg County Historical Museum. In honor of Earth Day, this ArtWalk turns green! We ask all venues to consider recycling during the event.

Stroll the streets of Longview starting at Piney Woods Live/ American Classifieds. They will have live music by Lorretta Callens and will exhibit works of at least fifteen artists. They are located at 506 N. 2nd Street.

Then travel to Leilawoods Florist and see Celi Bothwell Hester’s work. The Longview Museum of Fine Arts will have the Student Art Show up. Studio 204 and Christina Massey Photography on Fredonia will exhibit her work and that of Danny Guire.

Continue on past the Judge J. T. Smith Sculpture Garden, Osaka Japanese Sushi Bar, and the Arc Coffee Shop which will exhibit Seslea Mobbs.

Gallery 100 will be exhibiting the works of twentyone local artists working in the following media: watercolor, oil painting, acrylic, ceramic, photography, and glasswork, according to owner Shannon Gilliland.

Their artists are Patsy Irons, Don Auderer, Anup Bhandari, Gertrude Bisese, Michael Bishop, Jane Minick Cannon, Christine Chandler, Peggy Sue Coston, Tammie Dubose, Phyllis Haase, Reba Hubbard, Jim Hyatt, Varya Ignatchenko, Tim Lee, Karen Lowrey, James McLemore, Jeff Rushing, Sandra Spann, Jan Statman, David Thomas and Barbara Walls.

DTE/Zowies will host musician Patrick James.

George Preston’s Antiques will be showing pastel artist Jeannie Davis.

The band 36 Black will be playing on Center St. near TCC PHOTO | GALLERY, who will be exhibiting

Heal Our World with Blue Earth Alliance Photographers John Trotter, Tammy Cromer-Campbell, Benjamin Drummond and Sara Joy Steele.

Downtown Flooring Gallery on the corner of Methvin and High will be showing stone sculpture

by Stacy DeSlatte. While you are on Methvin Street, stop in at The Yoga Place to view photographer Jamie Maldonado’s work, Design 903, Forbes & Butler Visual Communications will feature artist Cece Bode.

P’s Gallery will have a new exhibit, the band Rambellwood, and artists booths outside.

The Gregg County Historical Museum and Interstate Battery will be holding Longview ArtWalk’s first film screening with Heal Our World’s short documentaries at 8pm. GCHM will show 3 short films by 3 renowned photographers regarding the environment just in time for Earth Day. A panel discussion via Skype with the photographers will follow the screening.

Jennifer Bowes, Operations Coordinator, Interstate All Battery Center, a sponsor of ArtWalk, explained, “Batteries are one of the greenest products around: they aren’t fossil fuels, many are rechargeable, and the ones that aren’t are almost 100% recyclable. As a company, we have been GREEN since the day we started. We were GREEN before GREEN was cool. Prior to the Art Walk, we will be promoting the event in our stores by handing out maps and information to each of our customers.

We will also hold a drawing: Anyone that comes into our store can enter to win a $100 Visa gift card that must go towards the purchase of a piece of art from one of the Art Walk artists. The winner will be notified via email the day before the event. At the event, we will have a table set up in the Heal Our World Video

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Screening Room with food and refreshments. We will be handing out coupons and pamphlets with some recycling education and tips.”

Randi Garcia of Piney Woods Live said, ”Piney Woods LIVE Magazine is pleased to be a part of the Longview Artwalk featuring our Piney Woods Artists from all over. We will have a community mosaic project with the help of glass artist, Cassie Edmonds, along with artists, photographers, sculptors, music and more.”

Please visit our website at artwalklongview.com.

While on the website, download the current map that will be available before April 7.

Businesses wanting to participate should contact Tammy Cromer-Campbell or Renee Hawkins at the Longview Museum of Art. Artists that want to exhibit should go to our web-site and follow the guidelines. You can also follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/artwalklongview.

ArtWalk Longview is a cooperative event among the businesses in Longview that believe in the promotion of art for the benefit of the Longview Community. ArtWalk Longview occurs four times a year -- the first Thursdays of April, July and October and the first Friday in December. The next ArtWalk will be July 7th, 2011.

Tammy Cromer-Campbell TCC PHOTO | GALLERY & PRODUCTIONS 207 N. Center St. | Longview, TX 75601 903.236.4686 | tammy@tccphoto.com

Mayfair Invitational Fine Arts Exhibit May 20-21, 2011 Cultural Arts Center Mount Vernon, Texas Sponsored by the Franklin County Arts Alliance Friday, May 20, 1-6pm: Artist and Sponsor Reception Saturday, May 21, 10am-7pm: Public Exhibition

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April 2011 - Page 19

music Live Music 2nd Saturdays x Bill White - April 9, 2011 x The Gentlemen - May 14, 2011

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Page 20 - April 2011

Home Grown I love words. I relish in the creation of thought through words. I love that words can inform, educate, sadden, delight, inspire and even anger.

Words can build, they can erupt, they can tear down.

I have an envious respect for the poet, the prophet, the novelist and sometimes the occasional columnist. My favorite instructors throughout my continuing daily education in life have been English teachers. My degree is in English, although you would never know it by the way I can massacre a sentence with my backwoods inspired accent.

The ones who really amaze me are songwriters, word crafters with sound. I have been a sportswriter, obituary reporter, police blogger, political hack and magazine article contributor, but I sure canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t write a song.

In my travels and wanderings, I have met some incredible people who can do more with a short song than I could do with a novel of thousands of meaningless concoctions of words. One such talent is Ovid Stevens, who lives off the FM between Hainesville and Crow in the pines of Wood County.

I have known Ovid since his name was Larry. When I was an eighth-grade quarterback at Fred Florence Junior High, my favorite rock group was Paul Revere and the Raiders. They had a hit song called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just Like Me.â&#x20AC;? A local rock band called Theze Few absolutely nailed it at the Twilight Times Skating Rink dances on Saturday nights. That band later became regional phenom Southwest F.O.B. and had a hit with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Smell of Incenseâ&#x20AC;? that would go as high as number two on Billboard only to have the misfortune of the number one song being Harper Valley PTA for what seemed like forever.

Southwest F.O.B. would eventually become top selling duo England Dan and John Ford Coley. England Dan, who was really Dan from Iraan (Texas), became country music star Dan Seals.

All those words in the previous two paragraphs have led to this profound truth. Ovid was the lead guitar player in those groups until Dan went to the country side of life.

After years of traveling the world playing, singing, producing and writing, Ovid decided Los Angeles was not where he wanted to be, so he claimed his homestead back in the Piney Woods of East Texas. And that is where he is today, creating new music and using his words to convey thoughts and passions to the soul.

What inspires the wordsmith to produce lyrics? For many, it is a natural talent. Others simply work hard writing each day.

For Ovid Stevens, it all started for him at the age of eight. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I started taking piano lessons when I was eight and got my first Slivertone Acoustic guitar when I was 12,â&#x20AC;?

Stevens noted. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I met a friend of my dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about that time named David Tate. He taught me a few chords and I was hooked.â&#x20AC;?

Stevensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; honored career has seen him travel from skating rinks and national guard armories to large auditoriums and stadiums. His walls are adorned with many awards and honors such as the Gold Record he got for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Re-

by Larry Tucker ally Love to See You Tonightâ&#x20AC;? when he was with England Dan and John Ford Coley.

These days finds Stevens at his Relax Tracks studio in the country putting the finishing touches on a new CD with all original compositions. Songs written for the project include â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just Say Yes,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Leave Me Now,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Outta Daâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Blue,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tropical Island (State of Mind),â&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mr. Brown.â&#x20AC;?

The music relates a wise and mature form of songs that will make you rock, sing, and of all things, think.

Stevens joined a bevy of East Texas talent on stage last spring to honor the memory of Hank Riddle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I did â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hey Sam,â&#x20AC;? and the crowd really seemed to get into it. They were clapping and hollering like they did,â&#x20AC;? Stevens said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love what I do.â&#x20AC;?

Other songwriters from the area such as Scott Walker (Mineola), Randy Brown (Mineola), Bob Campbell (Kilgore), and the homespun brilliance of Debbie Porter (Pittsburg) give us music from different walks and experiences in life.

But each one speaks to your soul.

Stevens still has a lot left in the creative tank to turn out more fun and thought-provoking songs that can move your soul.

I have first-hand knowledge of other ways words come alive. My 12-year old granddaughter, Lauren, is profoundly deaf, but she can paint you pictures drawing words with her fingers, her hands, and her expressions.

One of the hardest things in life to do sometimes is to find the right words to write or say. Have you ever tried to write a eulogy? How did you propose? What words did you come up with when your little girl just lost her puppy?

Use your words carefully and thoughtfully. Experience using words in a variety of ways. Start writing a journal, read more, give a speech.

Be thankful for words. And if you can use words to write a song, please do it!

Keep Texas music in your heart and Texas blues in your soul!

Larry Tucker grew up in southeast Dallas and spent weekends and summers at the homes of grandparents in Wood County. He is a graduate of East Texas State University, a former country music radio air personality and producer, newspaper editor, and is currently the athletic director, history teacher and basketball/baseball coach at a small East Texas school district. Tucker has been a music journalist and free lance writer for over 30 years. He lives at Lake Fork with his wife, Lorna.

PineyWoodsLive.com

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Art influences our mind consciously or unconsciously in such a way that it’s bound to create an urge to come “alive” and take action sooner, later, or much later. Art inspires art and it is a continuous process, almost like an epidemic.

What inspires some of the artists of East Texas? How do they enjoy art in their homes? Their artwork adorns the homes of many people near and far. How do they display their own art in their homes? We’ve visited homes of Paul Anderson, Don Auderer, Barbara, Astha Tuladhar & Anup Bhandari.

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Don’s camera recently captured rare moments in a migrating crane’s life.

When we visited, we got to see his fresh prints. He travels frequently to pursue his passion. He has displayed his work on neutral colored walls with beautiful lighting. His choice of frame for his photographs compliments the subject in his photography. The beauty that reflects from his photography seems surreal. It makes one aware of the beauty the eye might pass unnoticed.

Don has a wonderful collection of wildlife photography books and magazines on his living room table. The versatility of each room in his home makes one feel like they are on a journey when in fact one has just walked into another room! Visit Shannon’s Beading Basket to see more of Don’s photographs or email him at don@auderer.org

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Paul Anderson paints his fantasies on canvas. He almost exclusively uses oil paints. His unique choice of color demands an overall striking, compelling observation and then one discovers the details. There is great joy emanating from his canvas surface that makes one think of just how much Paul enjoys painting. He has decorated his living area with his paintings, so they add harmony to his everyday life and creative process. Visit P’s Gallery to view Paul’s artwork. paul-anderson.artistwebsites.com (Art is available for purchase.)

612 E. Hawkins Pkwy.

Longview

903-663-0587

Continues on page 22.

PineyWoodsLive.com

April 2011 - Page 21

news Information for Advertisers

Art in Artists’ Homes Continues

Our Mission Statement

Locally owned, Piney Woods LIVE is a magazine for art lovers in the Piney Woods of East Texas. Art is defined as a product of deliberately arranging elements in a way that appeals to the senses or emotions. Piney Woods LIVE features articles about and for local artists with the objective of appealing to individuals with an interest in fine art, fine dining, and fine performances. Copies of Piney Woods LIVE are strategically placed where affluent, educated East Texans who want the best out of living can enjoy them.

Live is more than an expression of the artist community it serves; it gives discerning readers a blend of in-depth art news, reviews, views on the business of art, as well as information on the artists themselves.

Content Artists may submit up 100 words plus a photo. Art events or venues may submit 300 or so words. All submissions must be in electronic format. Interested freelance writers or photographers should contact randi@pineywoodslive.com with ideas. Piney Woods Live reserves the right to refuse any content not suitable.

Distribution

Piney Woods Live is a free publication with subscriptions available. It is distributed in twelve East Texas counties, most heavily in Smith, Gregg, Wood, Harrison, Upshur, Camp, and Franklin counties. An electronic edition is available online at www.pineywoodslive.com. Our subscribers by mail may be anywhere. Our distribution includes friendly saturation in downtown businesses in our coverage area plus museums, wineries, theatres, coffee shops, art galleries, chambers and select businesses and offices to maximize our ability to reach our target audience. We use paid contractors, volunteer footwork, non-profits, chambers, subscribers, advertisers and friends. Contact us at info@pineywoodslive.com to be added as a distribution point or to be a distributor in your area.

Water color & animals are Barbara’s favorite. This world traveler senior artist’s home is a deer sanctuary with a tree and a swimming pool. With her creative mind and skilled fingertips, Barbara creates one-of-a-kind jewelry custom designed for selected events. In her living room, she has souvenirs from all over the world: Japanese calligraphy, Indian wood carved panels, Nepalese rugs, African masks and much more. Memories of good times reflect from them as she casts a glance at them every day. One can experience moments preserved from her youth just by spending some time there over a hot cup of tea and hearty conversation. Visit Shannon’s Beading Basket/ Gallery 100 to see more of her artwork.

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Page 22 - April 2011

As an artist couple, we fill our home with art. The subject matter varies from Asian, religious, western art, patriotic art, abstract, impressionistic, mixed media works and photography as well. To be surrounded by art in our daily lives adds flavor to our lives. When we replace old ones with new artwork, it adds new drama to each room. It is pure joy when we hang a new piece of art in our house. We rearrange them often to find the best spot for each piece. It is true that we get attached to some paintings. We welcome visitors at our home to view our work. Please send us an email at anupastha@yahoo.com. Visit P’s Gallery to see the current showing of Astha and Anup Bhandari.

As Paul Anderson says,”Buy art because you like it, because it moves you and because it will enhance your life!”

PineyWoodsLive.com

prose Iced Tea - The Sweetness of Journey and Place by Becky Whisenant The highways of Texas are ribbons on a package, unraveling, spilling out places and experiences more valuable

haps, “We’ll eat breakfast soon, honey.”

I would fall back asleep as she handed Daddy a trav-

my dad took us; I am shaped by all the currents and eddies where I have waded. Thus, the double blessing: The joy of

than any purchased gift. The enduring treasure is not the

elers’ check out of the glove compartment. Credit cards

the journey and the passion of a place. In school, the teacher

actual destination to which the road leads but what each

were rare in those days. One summer we were about five

told us that a noun was a person, place or thing. How inad-

road leads through. It is about what is on the way -- homes

hours from home and Daddy told Mom to get a travelers’

equate is that four letter word, “noun”, to define all that can

in the falling dusk with creamy light filtered out a kitchen

check for the gas. She said, “I don’t have them. I thought

be contained in a place.

window framing a photograph entitled “Woman Over

you did.”

Sink”. It is old men with leathery elbows sticking out pickup windows accompanied by a dog balanced on the tool box.

Daddy checked his wallet, “No, I laid them on the kitchen table and told you to get them.”

On that long journey through Texas, the most anticipated part, for me, was not reaching the border. It was that moment when we topped a rise in the highway, slowed to a

One should never tarry long where there is an absence of

“I didn’t hear you. I didn’t get them.”

stop, and there, twinkling in the distance before us, sprawled

large canines traveling in vehicles with humans.

“Well, I guess they’re still on the table.”

the lights of Abilene. I had found the heart of Texas there

We did not turn around. We were already on the

on that hill where you could see for miles and feel all the

In 1965, when I was eight years old, my father invested his hard-earned middle class money, not in a

other side of Waco. It was a lesson for me in life’s priori-

warmth this wonderful place had to offer. The night sky was

savings bond or stocks, but in our lives by taking us away

ties. I believe my dad now when he says, “Always keep

velvet there, the stars numerous, and the grass nourishing.

from our small East Texas town for one week each summer

emergency cash somewhere on your person.” A hundred

The lowing of a cow echoed back generations to longhorns

on that magical word, “vacation”. We did not go to Disney

dollar bill went a long way when a clean Travel Lodge

and cowboys. We all breathed that same sweet, timeless air.

World or boating on the lake. No, we saw America and we

motel room was $12 for a family and 23-cents-a-gallon

began with Texas. He changed our lives that year.

was expensive gas. The first year we made the Canadian

children of my own, when I see those lights of Abilene and

For the first time I met people who talked like the

Journeying even now, as a woman with grown

border in 1967, the adults marveled at the price of gas. My

smell the sweetness of that place, I am that child again. I feel

ones on TV – not like us. Being a sheltered native Texan,

dad joked with our traveling companions that 52-cents-a-

the beating of the heart of this state, and I carry it with me on

this was my first encounter with non-southerners, non-Tex-

gallon was ridiculous. Nobody he knew would pay that

every road I travel down. No matter how wonderful the trip

ans. It was puzzling to my young mind that such “strang-

kind of money for gas! Well, we knew no one in Canada

to parts unknown, some of the most beautiful words in the

ers” found our speech amusing. I found their language

and we did not refill until we were back on Montana soil

English language are heard upon entering a restaurant this

harsh and sharp. My worst suspicions were confirmed

and headed south.

side of the Texas border and are always accompanied by a

when I discovered they had never heard of Dr Pepper, had

Cruising West Texas in the middle of a summer night

no idea how to make a good hamburger, and did not know

on an endless road embedded itself in my youthful bones

iced tea was automatically served sweet.

and joints to the marrow. We would stop on the edge of

As soon as I was out of school each summer, we

the caprock and get out to stretch our legs on the deserted

would leave after church on a Sunday night for distant

road. Daddy would get out his thermos and I would

places. I found it impossible to concentrate on Daddy’s

listen to grasshopper legs scratching out a welcome. The

sermon that evening. The last thing he did before we pulled

wind would rustle the bluestem and switch grass on the

out was tuck a full thermos of hot coffee behind the seat of

roadside. It called to me, “You cannot imagine what’s out

his pickup. This was important since nothing was open on

there! We’ll be here when you return.” More soothing than

Sundays or after hours except the occasional truck stop. It

Brahm’s was this lullaby to me. The pavement was warm,

was a lonely departure through those sleeping towns, but

my mom and dad’s voices warmer, and the ticking truck

I savored every moment, resenting the hours lost to sleep.

engine hot.

We were sneaking away to a secret land like Peter Pan

Somehow, the sight of bloody Asian bodies on

while the rest of the world slept. Until then it seemed only

the nightly news and dazed soldiers on the TV was made

people with leisure time and money traveled for fun. But

more real to me because Vietnam did not seem so far away

we took Dinah Shore seriously when she told us to “See

once you had crossed Texas and attained the border. But

the world today in a Chevrolet”, only my dad drove a Ford.

at the same time, those awful images were not as rending

This nocturnal exodus allowed us to escape the

because of the security of this state, this country, and the

blistering daylight hours of Texas summer heat in a non-air

freedom under God that I had viewed with my own eyes,

conditioned truck, while making the most of our precious

thanks to my dad. All that Texas history and geography I

time. Just to make Texline, near the New Mexico border,

had memorized for a test snapped together like Ezekiel’s

took 16 hours, and Daddy had to be back in the pulpit

dry bones in the Bible, full of life and breath, staring at me.

the Sunday after next. Many times have I heard my dad

The reality of my position in the world shifted into focus

hurry us along our route saying, “Come on, we’ve got to

on those trips. There was a real, physical world beyond the

make time!” Years later, my husband observed, “Only God

books I had read.

makes time.”

At a truck stop, maybe a Husky or Union 76, I would

There is power in a place. Each locus has its own texture. To stand in one place is to feel the history of that

smile, “Y’all want some iced tea?”

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lift my sleepy head off my mom’s shoulder, smell the gaso-

place. One steps into the stream of events flowing through

line and diesel, feel the chilly night air and hear the pump

that place and feels it surely as creek water around one’s

Tuesday–Thursday 10–6 • Friday–Saturday 10–7

dinging as we refilled. I would mumble, “Where are we??”.

ankles. I am molded by all the streams of the past that

My mom would answer, “Abilene”, or “Sweetwater”. Or per-

have flowed over and around me in those places where

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April 2011 - Page 23

Art Walk Thursday, April 7th â&#x20AC;˘ 5-8pm Stop by 506 N. 2nd St. in Longview while we celebrate the artists and musicians of the Piney Woods of East Texas!

Community Mosaic Project!

Join us in creating mosaic art for our Piney Woods LIVE outdoor sign featuring Glass Artist Cassie Edmonds!

Meet some of the artists that have been featured in Piney Woods LIVE from all over East Texas!

Clark Langley Sonia Semone Carol Morgan Pace Robert Langham

A Bh d i Anup Bhandari

LIVE MUSIC! Rocking Loretta Callens

Jan Statman

A h T l dh Astha Tuladhar

Meet these artists: Candace Williams, Paul Anderson, Lisa Rachel Horlander, Cassie Edmonds, and Casey Koehler!

Candace Williams

Page 24 - April 2011

Alicia Conway

Lisa Rachel Horlander

Paul Anderson

Casey Koehler

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