The Shenandoah Valley Art Center, during the month of May, is exhibiting the works of artist, Chee Ricketts, a Hampton Roads resident who moved to the foothills of the Blue Ridge near Charlottesville in 2006.
Her style is constantly evolving as she moves from tighter, more controlled representational work to paintings that reflect her feelings about a particular subject. Her painting techniques are simultaneously spontaneous and controlled as she navigates between reality and interpreted vision, creating scenes intended to inspire the imagination and lift the spirits. Through her use of color and wash techniques, she seeks to transport the viewer to a heightened appreciation of ephemeral moments in time. Recent recognitions include an “Award of Distinction” from the Virginia Watercolor Society at the Workhouse Art Center in Lorton, Va. and an “Award of Excellence” from the Central Virginia Watercolor Guild at the McGuffey Art Center.
Both the Rockingham Memorial Hospital and the Augusta Health Medical Center have her paintings included in their permanent collections. An Opening Reception will be held May 3, 5:00 – 7:00pm and the public is encouraged to come and meet the artist after she speaks briefly about her work.
In the Hallway Gallery artwork from the Central Virginia Watercolor Guild will be on display. In 1991, the guild was established to meet the needs of water media painters. The artists developed educational programs, demonstrations and opportunities for professional critiques. With over 100 members, the group meets at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church in Charlottesville every fourth Monday at 1pm. Programs include workshops taught by local and national water media artists and a juried exhibition held at the McGuffey Art Center. In the Member’s Gallery artwork highlighting Skies and Birds will be displayed
Shenandoah Valley Art Center offers, for members of the center and community, many workshops and classes taught by professional artists. Art classes offered in May are Social Marketing for Artists (Etsy and Facebook) taught by Piper Groves on May 24, 1:00 – 4:00pm and SAK, Saturday Art for Kids, from 11am – 1pm offers a unique art experience for young artists the first three Saturdays of May. Contact the art center for specific information and pre-registration. Open studio opportunities in the Virginia Ross Education Studio are available to printmakers and ceramic artists. Apply on line at
The Fall Foliage Festival Art Show application for the show to be held on October 13 and 14 is online and available to professional artists. Recently the show was voted one of the top three art events in Virginia by “Virginia Living” readers.
The Shenandoah Valley Art Center is located in downtown Waynesboro at 126 S. Wayne Avenue. Galleries are open to the public 10am to 4pm Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, call (540) 949-7662 or visit www.svacart.com.
Share
Chris Graham
