Instinct over instruction
Wednesday, July 29 — There are natural artists in this world. Souls compelled to create, using whatever tools at hand. Bits of found glass. Cans of spray paint. Over the course of a lifetime, self-taught, they develop a body of work. Our gaze is secondary, if a consideration at all.
This week’s Sketchbook stories explore the world of those self-taught artists.
One traces an Atlanta artist’s arc from tagging downtown corners in the ’90s to being honored a few blocks away this summer, with two companion shows built from heartbreak and memory. The other gives a nod to Georgia’s penchant for folk art, while making the case for collecting work from the local people and places keeping that tradition alive.
Here’s to those who create because they must. Never asking for permission. Never asking for praise. Just painting, drawing, sculpting, pouring, throwing – and tagging – for the love of the practice.
What makes you that passionate?
—Sherri Daye Scott
🎨 Soak up the sun with Midsummer at ArtsXchange for a two-day festival of art, community, and family. Enjoy an evening art auction and dancing on July 31, then return Aug. 1 for free workshops, live entertainment, vendors, food, crafts, and games for all ages. More details. SPONSOR MESSAGE
Two shows, one heart
💕 The pieces in artist Dr. Dax’s companion shows, “Love Was” and “Love Is,” were painted in two different states and states of mind – heartbroken in Florida, then hopeful in the ATL. One closes July 30; the other is hanging on.
➡️ Go inside both.
Amy Sherald: American Sublime
SPONSORED BY THE HIGH MUSEUM
🎨 You’ve seen Amy Sherald’s iconic portrait of Michelle Obama. Now, her largest exhibition to date comes to Atlanta, featuring rarely seen paintings and monumental portraits spanning nearly two decades.
Amy Sherald: American Sublime is now open, bringing one of the leading artists of her generation back to Georgia. Secure your tickets before it’s gone.
Can only make it in the evening? We’ve got you covered. The show stays open after hours every Friday. Grab a drink, snag an exclusive exhibition poster, and explore the galleries at your leisure.
Finding folk art
🍑 Turns out Georgia is Googling “folk art” 13 times more than everyone else in America. So, here’s a rundown of Atlanta and North Georgia galleries where you can actually purchase it.
➡️ Get the list.
Art Happenings
🪡 The Khayamiya Textile Collection of Joan Vernon Opening Reception | 6-9 p.m., July 30 | Gallery 72.
☀️ Hot and Fun Group Show Opening | 6-9 p.m., July 31 | Mason Fine Art (pictured).
🎉 WAP Bash! | 6:30 p.m., July 31 | Venue B6 at Goat Farm.
🧵 National Embroidery Day Celebration | 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Aug. 1 | Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum.
🎨 Soak up the sun with Midsummer at ArtsXchange for a two-day festival of art, community, and family. Enjoy an evening art auction and dancing on July 31, then return Aug. 1 for free workshops, live entertainment, vendors, food, crafts, and games for all ages. More details. SPONSOR MESSAGE
Post of the Week
🎨 Painter Carlos Solis said goodbye to “In the Beginning,” the group exhibition he curated at The Hudgens Center for Art & Learning by thanking each of his 14 collaborators – fellow expats and Atlanta-based artists.
➡️ See the post.
🖋️ Today’s Sketchbook was edited by Julie E. Bloemeke.
