“Chair-ity Art”

     Artists have begun painting cast-off and Adirondack chairs in earnest for the upcoming “Chair-ity” Auction, June 3 and 4, during the ArtRageous on Main festival. The only rule is the chair must be functional so that people can sit on it.   I can’t think of a better combination; a work of art you can use to either brighten a dark corner or to add a focal point to an outside living space and to totally surround yourself with beautiful art!

Laura Cramer’s Peony Chair

     On this quiet Sunday morning the sun is coming out and with it the artist in me. I know, in the garage there is a “chair-canvas” and acrylic paints quietly waiting and persistently nudging me. I am trying my hand at a child’s chair and hope some interesting illustrations come out of my ideas. Some well-known area artists are painting chairs this year, including Doug Fiely, Laura Cramer, (famous for her mega-images of peonies) Linda McCann, Kay Sluterbeck and Pat Rayman. Pat has chosen a student desk chair and is off to an intriguing start. It will be fun to see the different art chairs developing!

     Our 55th Annual June Show prospectus has been mailed to artists. There is still time to pick one up here at the art center, call us and we’ll mail you one — or you can download a pdf form from out website.

     Time is running out to visit the Wassenberg Art Center and check out our current exhibits, “It’s In the Cards” and “The Art of Therapy” which focus on two very different types of art which both encourage interaction.  These shows, sponsored by Vancrest Health Care Center, will run through May 7.  Exhibit hours are 1-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) and admission is free. 

     The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 643 S. Washington Street in Van Wert, Ohio.  Contact us by phone at 419.238.6837 or by e-mail at wassenberg@embarqmail.com.  Check the calendar on our website, www.vanwert.com/wassenberg, for current activities.

By Hope Wallace