John Anderson will discuss the history of whiskey painting at January Art League meeting

"Basket of Citrus" by John Anderson

Press release from Art League of Henderson County:

It seems appropriate that Art League of Henderson County member John Anderson be the guest speaker at the January 8th meeting. As a member of the Whiskey Painters of America, John knows a thing or two about miniature paintings, which is January’s special member challenge. Several times during the year, Art League members are challenged to create works of a particular subject or style. One of the most popular shows is the Miniature Show when members are challenged to create works no larger than 8 inches on any side. As a member of the Whiskey Painters of America, Anderson’s paintings must be even smaller – no larger than 4 x 5 inches to carry the official WPA label.

Whiskey painting began with Joe Ferriot who had a busy work travel schedule back in the early 1950s. He enjoyed painting and would carry small pieces of watercolor paper, an aspirin-tin palette and sawn-off brushes on his travels so he could paint, often while lounging in bars, using whatever beverage was handy as his “water.” Thus whiskey painting was born.

Anderson is a long-standing and active member of the ALHC. His vocation as an architect gave him a solid foundation in drawing. After retiring to Hendersonville, he studied watercolor painting and has been recognized for his skill as an artist with many awards. He is a member of a number of watercolor organizations and was nominated to the Whiskey Painters of America. Membership to the WPA is limited to 150, so he had to wait until there was an opening. After over a year’s wait, he was accepted into the WPA in 2011. Anderson is represented locally by Art Mob Marketplace and Studios and his work is available in the shop at the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site in Flat Rock.

The Art League is composed of artists of many media and skill sets, as well as those who wish to support the arts in their community. It allows for exchange of ideas, artistic opportunities, and resources. It was founded in 1960 with a mission to encourage and assist in the development of individual artistic talent, as well as the enjoyment of art. The organization honors this legacy by raising funds to support local art education teachers and students, community outreach, and exhibitions.
The Art League meets monthly from January through November on the second Sunday of each month (except May, when it will be the 3rd Sunday) at Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville. Anderson will be the featured speaker on Sunday, January 8. (There is ample on-site and handicapped-accessible parking.) A social time begins at 1:30 p.m., with a short business meeting beginning at 2 p.m., followed by the presentation. Guests are welcome. For more information, visit the ALHC website at www.artleague.net.

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About Alli Marshall
Alli Marshall has lived in Asheville for more than 20 years and loves live music, visual art, fiction and friendly dogs. She is the winner of the 2016 Thomas Wolfe Fiction Prize and the author of the novel "How to Talk to Rockstars," published by Logosophia Books. Follow me @alli_marshall

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