February begins the season of sap. As the earth begins to feel a shift that can often go unnoticed in the still wintery landscape, below, deep in the land, a stirring in the roots begins. Rabbi Jill Hammer writes, “The sap in the trees begins to rise, and life runs through all the veins of the trees. The blood of the living creatures also begins to move faster as they awaken to seek food. Ice cracks and melts; water disperses over the land. Though there still may be a chill on the earth, it is an invigorating cold, one that inspires us to move.”
Rabbi Hammer reminds us that the release of winter will make way for the new growth of spring. Not yet, but it will, soon enough. And the transition is beginning.
Art Presence Art Center offers a glimpse of this greening in our February Guest Artist show. Aptly titled, “Wood & Waterfalls,” this new show will feature stunning functional art from the Siskiyou Woodcraft Guild. From fabulous furnishings and home decor to indoor “biologically active” sculptured rock waterfalls, this will be a show like none before. Come celebrate the timeless art of woodcraft and the beauty of nature.
Carol Branan and her fanciful lamps and home furnishings are the featured Member Artist of the Month. Checks, stripes, grapes, flowers, and vines all make appearances on her upcycled creations. Carol’s pieces wear her heart on their curiously-painted surfaces. A touch of Alice in Wonderland and MacKenzie-Childs, with daily functionality thrown in, this art deserves to be “checked” out!
Our monthly members show will focus on a 3D-feel and a nod toward the transition to springtime. Large, structured mosaics, winding paths, and blooms, and perhaps some hearts and vines, welcome the just-around-the-corner season. The exhibit opens February 3, at noon. Opening party for all shows is Saturday, February 4, from 1-3pm. Wine tasting TBA.
Art Presence is participating in the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce “Enhance the Romance” event from February 10-20. On Saturday, February 11, from 2-4pm, mosaic artist and gallery member, Suzan Hatch, offers a Mosaic Your Heart workshop for ages 5+. All materials furnished. $5 per person donation to Art Presence requested.
Our monthly third Thursday “Talk of the Town” presents A Conversation Exploring the Passion of Southern Oregon Women in Wine, on February 16 from 6-7:30pm in the Front Room of the gallery. Join Ashley Bradfield and special guests for a talk and tasting.
See you at the gallery!
Featured image: Wood home furnishings by Jens Sehm