Three members of the Buckhead-based Atlanta Artist Center (AAC) join efforts in an upcoming art exhibit at the Fulton County Buckhead Branch Public Library.
“Primary Painters,” which opens April 11 and runs through May 23, consists of approximately 80 oil paintings. A reception, free and open to the public is scheduled for April 25.
The three painters — Robert Christie of Brookhaven, Geri Zaki, and Lynda Ellis — have been painting together for several years and regularly attend weekly sessions at the AAC to enhance their skills.
“We are the three ‘brushketeers,’” Saki said. “After a session we compare thoughts and learn from each other.”
The non-profit, member-supported center, which says on its webpage that it has been supporting artists in the community since 1954, hosts classes, lectures, demonstrations and exhibitions.
“AAC is a definite powerhouse of the arts in Buckhead and one of the best training programs to get artists on their own feet and known to the public,” said Cheryl D’Amato, who has functioned as a long-time volunteer coordinator of AAC exhibits at the Buckhead Library.
Christie said the name of the “Primary Painters” exhibit alludes to the three primary colors—red, blue and yellow – which are the basis for all other colors.
One of Christie’s paintings included in the exhibit is “Massimo,” a tribute to the culinary arts and a realistic portrait of Massimo Mariano, an Atlanta-based professional chef and Christie’s son-in-law.
Christie says what matters the most to him when making portraits is to “capture the spirit of the person.” The painting won Christie first place at a show sponsored by the Portrait Society of Atlanta, which meets at the artists center studios on Grandview Avenue.
Saki, Ellis, and Christie credit the center with providing a forum where they can continue to grow in their craft. “AAC has terrific monthly receptions where we get to meet new people,” Saki said.
“I like the structure offered by the weekly meetings,” Christie said.
A newcomer to the center, Gabriella Baetti, agreed. “AAC is a great resource for emerging artists trying to gain experience and to network with other artists around Atlanta,” she said.
To learn more about AAC, visit, atlantaartistscenter.org.
–Martha Nodar
| What: “Primary Painters”When: April 11 through May 23. Reception April 25, 2:30pm-4:30pm, free, open to the public.Where: Buckhead Library, 269 Buckhead Ave, Atlanta 30305. Ph. 404-814-3500. | ||
| What: “Primary Painters”When: April 11 through May 23. Reception April 25, 2:30pm-4:30pm, free, open to the public.Where: Buckhead Library, 269 Buckhead Ave, Atlanta 30305. Ph. 404-814-3500. |