From imagination to canvas, works from several Western Carolina University graduate students and faculty were exhibited at The Carolina Gallery of Fine Art throughout April. A special reception was held April 14 that drew many art aficionados.
“Our main goal is to support upcoming and professional artists in the area,” said Mary Lou Bilbro, co-owner of the gallery located on the corner of N. 4th Street and Carolina Way on the upper level. “It’s local and regional and it gives the artists a chance to show their work and grow.”
Themed shows, such as student and faculty artwork, are something Bilbro likes to do to help challenge the artists.
“Themed shows makes them stretch themselves and experiment,” she said. “A little healthy competition never hurts and it makes them try a little harder.”
Several art enthusiasts were at the show and Bilbro said she was pleased with the attendance, especially given that it was April.
“We had a terrific turnout and the art was accepted well,” she said.
She added that it’s not so easy putting together and setting up a show with several works of art.
“You need to set it up so that each piece compliments the other,” she said. “Presentation is everything, it’s like putting together an outfit.”
The gallery is currently exhibiting a juried show from the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers that runs through June 12. A juried show is when artists submit three pieces, and then judges select which ones make the cut.
By Brian O’Shea
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