“Camped Out On Greasy Grass: A Series of Portraits” AAAC grand opening exhibit, Aug. 29

From a press release:

“Camped Out On Greasy Grass: A Series of Portraits” AAAC grand opening exhibit, Aug. 29

The Asheville Area Arts Council will host its first art exhibition since relocating to the Grove Arcade this month.  On August 29, 2014 from 6:00-9:00pm there will be an opening reception at The Asheville Area Arts Council Gallery at 1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Camped Out on Greasy Grass: A Series of Portraits curated by Jeremy Russell and Jameid Ferrin formerly of the Tannery Studios, will run from August 22 through September 20, 2014.  The benefit exhibit will feature a series of portraits from the following artists:  Carley Brandau, Angelique Brickner, Alex Irvine, Jameid Ferrin, Libby Gamble, Jennifer Gordon, Bob Judy, Zaire Kacz, Dan Lavender, Daniel Rhineheart, Jeremy Russell, Andy Sreb, Molly Sawyer, Steve Spurgeon, Ian Wilkinson, and Terpsicorps.

Due to fire hazards and building code issues, power was turned off for 23 artists from the Switchyard and Tannery Studios in the River Arts District on Lyman Avenue on July 14, 2014.  This exhibit will not only display the works of some of these displaced artists, but will highlight the spirit of partnership and innovation.  As explained by show curator Jeremy Russell, “Camped out on Greasy Grass represents the previously outlined plans of the Tannery and the Switchyard and the removal of occupants/artists who had worked along steadily, altering the space with their unique invention. The installation will provide a sense of the individuals and their work as well as a sense of inclusion.  (The exhibit) aims to give a sense of intangible connection between ourselves and the artists working a bit on the fringes…”

Not only will attendees get a chance to view the new Asheville Area Arts Council Gallery in the Grove Arcade, but attendees will also make an important impact on the lives of local studio artists.  As the collective voice for the arts in Buncombe County, it is an honor for the AAAC to host this important and meaningful show.

According to Executive Director Kitty Love, “We have the capacity, we only lack the strategy and the commitment, to make it a reality that our artists are retained as Buncombe County grows, so that we don’t lose them to more welcoming places who are reaching out and searching for what we are so lucky to enjoy. We must recognize that the vibrancy and beauty they create as vital to our success as a city. I’m honored to work with a hard working and committed team of artist entrepreneurs and advocates to bring to light the work, and a crucial community issue, that was left in the dark on Lyman Avenue this year.”

For more information about this and other exhibits, as well as full statements from Jeremy Russell and Kitty Love please visit our website.