Welcome Autumn—Like a sundial between seasons, there is something about autumn that resonates deep down within our hearts. A kaleidoscopic sphere of color emerges, crisp air tingles our cheeks, and the rustling of leaves reminds me we are all just dancing in the wind. Since ancient times, October has been viewed as the veil between living and dying, a time of rest and pulling inward. Jack Kerouac says it so well, “Swinging on delicate hinges the autumn leaf almost off the stem.”
This month our featured guest artist is Christopher Atkinson. Beginning as a self-taught artist, and studying psychology along the way, he has worked in numerous mediums, and is recognized as a Master Pastelist by the Pastel Artists of Oregon and International Association of Pastel Societies. He sees his artistic journey as one of “intricate interplay between the human brain and the visual encounter.”
From his artist statement Christopher says, “My artistic journey is an exploration of the delicate balance between abstraction and realism. At the heart of my work lies a fascination with the interplay of these two seemingly contrasting realms. In a world that often prioritizes the concrete and tangible, I invite viewers to join me on a journey beyond the surface.”
October’s Member Artist of the Month, Sue Bennett, has been creating art since childhood. Well versed in art from drawing to design, she has spent her life jurying, exhibiting, teaching, and painting with watercolors, oils, and pastels. She says, “My paintings are portrayed with simplicity and rich colors; I get very involved with the medium, and paint to express beauty, mood and heart—to take the viewer to a place of refreshment…I like it best when I’m slightly surprised by the end result.”
October opens an entirely new show of membership art as well—there might even be a bit of the spooky and mysterious. The October show runs for one month only. Please join us to celebrate Art Presence Artists at our Opening Party! October 7, 1-4pm.
To further open the seasonal door, Dos Mariposas Vineyard & Lavender Farm will offer tastings of their hard cider. Dos Mariposas cider, with its golden butterflies label, is a delicate estate blend of their apple and pear trees. Small batch deliciousness, in semi-sweet and dry, is not to be missed. The thought of it reminds me of one of my favorite lines from the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon, “It was a beautiful bright autumn day, with air like cider and a sky so blue you could drown in it.”
Talk of the Town, October 19, 6-7:30pm will be a delightful interview and conversation between two local authors. Frank De Luca will interview Gene Luetkemeyer. What fun! Beverages and sweets!
Two new art shows will be held this month at local wineries. Susan Nahabedian, known for her exquisite renderings of rocks, boulders, cliffs, and water, will be at Awen Winecraft. Sharon Wesner’s dreamy and diaphanous watercolors will be on view at Hummingbird Estate. The bright and vivacious art of Deanna St. Martin continues at Dos Mariposas Vineyard & Lavender Farm. Receptions TBA.
Something new is in the air—watch for announcements on upcoming classes and art workshops. Welcome autumn…may you fall into beauty!
Featured image: Christopher Atkinson, pastel on paper.