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OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY: Autumn at the Art Cellar: New Exhibition in October

A walk in the woods or afternoon drive along the parkway is particularly exhilarating this time of year. For the artist this often brings artistic inspiration that comes alive on the canvas or through sculptural expression. The Art Cellar Gallery is highlighting the results of this inspiration in the Autumn Exhibition which runs through October 31st. The exhibition features many of the gallery’s artists and the rich color and warmth of the season fills the main floor gallery. Gallery Director Liz Brown, says “as sorry as we are to see summer coming to an end the autumn is my favorite time of year and this exhibition captures the color and feel of the season”. The Autumn Exhibition will be celebrated with an open house on Saturday October 8th from 3 to 5pm and everyone is invited to share in some seasonal refreshments, conversation and enjoy the exhibit.
Nancy Oppenheimer’s large scale oil on canvas of a North Carolina Black Bear mother and cub grab attention on the  feature wall. The painting titled “Peace” brings the bears up close and approachable as they nap surrounded by the color and crisp texture of autumn leaves. Oppenheimer is a SC artist whose work has been recognized in national competitions and is included in university, museum and private collections across the US. Many know her richly detailed paintings of bears that she has studied for many years and she is a long time advocate for the protection of these special animals through the country.
Another artist known for his realistic style is acclaimed painter David Birmingham who can transport viewers to the less traveled roads and the vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  His oil on canvas works show long range views from paths or roads in our area or invite a stroll along a rivers edge. This English born, life long artist, has traveled and studied extensively and though he has work in all mediums and styles it is the oil that landscapes that are his signature.  David Birmingham’s paintings are classic realism, rich with details capturing delicate shifts in shadow and light. Birmingham’s art shows his passion and artistic mastery as he captures the landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Pathways, country roads, and shaded lanes, lead viewers into his paintings and welcome exploration of serene scenes, allowing the imagination to move beyond the next curve or past the next grove of trees. The Autumn Exhibition features three of Birmingham’s large scale canvas and several other midsize works as well.
The exhibit also highlights the most recent work of painters Trey Finney from SC, NC artists Richard Oversmith, Margaret Salisbury, Scott Boyle and Robert Ray. Non representational paintings by artist Tim Turner, metal sculpture by Bill Brown, clay sculpture by Pam Brewer, and blown glass trout by Ken Carder, each add variety and dimension to the exhibition. Also featured in the exhibit, are new works of glass sculpture, birds and thistles by acclaimed artist Richard Jolley, richly colored vessels by Tommie Rush and new vibrantly colored “Dwellings” sculptures by Scott Summerfield. Works in clay by several NC potters round out the main floor exhibition.
The Art Cellar Gallery has been a highly respected arts destination for over twenty four years and is know for the high level of artists represented and the diversity of work represented. Gallery Owner Pam McKay strives to bring a exciting blend of art and artist and the work on display changes constantly throughout the year. The gallery space is open and welcoming and is spread through three levels of exhibition space. Located on Hwy.184 in Banner Elk the gallery is open Monday through Saturdays 10am to 5pm year round, visit on line at artcellaronline.com or call 828-898-5175 for more information.
A small glimpse of the Autumn Exhibition, showing artists Bill Brown, Nancy Oppenheimer, Richard Oversmith, Trey Finney, Tim Turner and Robert Ray.
A small glimpse of the Autumn Exhibition, showing artists Bill Brown, Nancy Oppenheimer, Richard Oversmith, Trey Finney, Tim Turner and Robert Ray.
Autumn Journey, David Birmingham oil on canvas
Autumn Journey, David Birmingham oil on canvas