It may be cold outside, but the art-scene in Norcross has started the new year hot, with interesting exhibits, a variety of class offerings, artists of the month displays and more.
Abstract art and a juried showcase
Showcasing varied works and approaches, “Abstract Ideas,” the ongoing exhibit at Norcross Gallery & Studios, features outstanding representations of exclusively abstract ideas designed to provoke viewers to discover a new appreciation of the genre.
Abstract art aims to show or evoke emotions rather than realism. Cubism, an early form of abstract art, showed the interior or depth of things rather than just the surface.
Many varied approaches to abstraction are represented, yet the artist has the same goal in mind — to look beyond the surface and to make viewers think about what appeals to their individual tastes and preferences, thus learning more about themselves.
Two outstanding works in the Norcross Gallery exhibit are Lynda Ellis’ colorful “Aurora Winds” and “Exploring Imagination” by Barbara Fraher.
“Abstract Ideas” closes on February 8 and will be followed by a juried exhibit, “Limitless,” opening on February 13 and continuing through March 22. The juror will select only the best works to be included, so watch for excellent art pieces to be featured in this showcase.
Artists of the month
There are two Artists of the Month for January/February — Dwayne Mitchell and Kammi Moon — with their work on display at 45 South Café .
Both artists create stunning portraits — Mitchell’s are realistic, painterly and powerful depictions of his subjects, and Moon’s are colorful, stylized illustrations that show her unique Hawaiian influence.
Their work will be at 45 South throughout February, so residents are invited to stop by to enjoy the art (or add some wonderful pieces to your collection) and warm up with the café’s superb coffee.
Ongoing classes
Open to the community, the ongoing classes at Norcross Gallery & Studios include:
- Figure and Portrait Study Sessions — Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., coordinated by Anne Hall and Lynda Ellis
- Daytime Open Studio — Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., led by Anne Labaire
- Saturday Open Studio — from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., led by Kathy Collins
About Norcross Gallery & Studios
Norcross Gallery & Studios is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to access, education and cultural opportunities for the community and for support of local artists.
Located in downtown Norcross at 116 Carlyle Street, open hours are Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The phone number is 770-840-9844.
For more information or to register for a class, visit norcrossgalleryandstudios.org.
