"Ballerina Amidst Pink" by Elena Rezayeva
Solvang, California—October 27, 2017 – The annual Holiday Art Show opens November 24th at the Judith Hale Gallery located in Solvang Antiques. A reception with the artists will be held on Saturday, November 25th from noon to 4 pm, providing an opportunity for the public to visit with the artists. Each Saturday through December 16th from noon to 4 pm, rotating artists will be demonstrating their various specialties. These featured artists include: Dirk Foslien and Richard Myer on November 24th and 25th; Joe Mancuso on December 2nd; Sheryl Knight on December 9th; and Dee Prater on December 16th.
Richard Myer is a favorite at any art event! Myer is known for his ability to sculpt during the Quick Draw, completing a foundry-ready original work within the 60 minutes allowed for the artist. “We do not have a time allotment,” says Judy Hale, “but throughout the afternoon you will be amazed to see how Richard progresses from start to finish.” Myer studied at the Art Students League, The Sculpture Center, The American Art School and the Salmagundi Club. He has taught and worked as an art director over his long career.
A regular here at the gallery is oil painter Dirk Foslien, who will often spend the day painting and visiting with guests. “Dirk works from his original photographs, taken of the California landscape, most often our favorite Santa Ynez Valley,” reveals Hale. She adds, “he is also exhibiting a collection of works taken from Old Masters, demonstrating his passion for figurative works and skills learned while studying at the Muse Academy in Baltimore, MD.” Foslien’s works are widely collected.
Joe Mancuso will be the guest artist on December 2nd. “Joe is an accomplished artist in both pastel and oil. He is well known for dramatic light and color in his work and is greatly influenced by the changing of seasons and the weather,” declares Hale. Mancuso has said, “Although I may be attracted to a certain place or scene, it is always my goal to move beyond a literal translation and say something extraordinary about light in my work.”
Filling the guest slot for December 9th is Sheryl Knight, an award-winning California artist. She is best known for her vibrant oil paintings, winning numerous awards and recognitions. Her strong, expressive style could best be described as varying from loose realism to impressionistic. “You will enjoy the opportunity to be welcomed by Sheryl, who always has a radiant smile,” says Hale.
A regular participant in the gallery shows and exhibits, Dee Prater will be featured during the final Saturday demonstration on December 16th. She has a unique art form that she calls “Lamina Process.” It is a form of papier-mâché that she developed, where each selection is one-of-a-kind. She is also known for her line of exquisite equine bronze sculptures.
New works by Dave DeMatteo, Grace Schlesier, Victor Fisher, Marty Goldstein, Barron Postmus, Vicki Catapano and others will be on display for viewing and holiday purchases. Hale suggests, “It is a great time to add to your art collection, and take advantage of meeting the artists. I hope that you will be able to join us for our reception, or for any of the demonstrations during the holidays.”