In celebration of Arbor Day, four very talented artists have joined forces to create an inspiring exhibit dedicated solely to trees. As a point of interest, the first Arbor Day celebration took place on April 10, 1872 in Nebraska and was an immediate success as more than one million trees were planted. Julius Sterling Morton was the founder of Arbor Day and to honor him Nebraska made it an annual legal holiday in 1885, using April 22 to coincide with his birthday. In 1970, President Richard Nixon proclaimed the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day.
Join us for the opening reception on Friday April 2nd, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Blue Wing Gallery, 405 Main Street, Woodland, Ca 95695.
"Tree Stories Chapter Two" is an ongoing project that marries Judith Monroe's photographic images with stories that she has written or found, or that have been shared with her by other writers. Visitors to the Blue Wing Gallery can view these stories in an exhibition binder on display during this exhibit.
"Each artwork tells the story of a tree when the viewer carefully examines the details, though they may not be able to read all of the text and may have to fill in gaps with their own imagination. Likewise, each of us brings our own story to those of others, coloring them with our own experiences; if we listen carefully, we can share a story between us."
"Tree Stories Chapter One," was exhibited April 2006 at a gallery in Sacramento. Four years later, with a new body of work for "Tree Stories Chapter Two," Judith has honed her trademark style of applying her own photographs and other items onto a canvas or panel then adding color with pencils and acrylic glazes. Judith's unique combination of photography, collage, painting, and text in one mixed media art piece is amazing. The end result is clearly recognized as a Monroe masterpiece. About the artist Steve Cook: "I create three dimensional sculptures from everyday objects and found pieces. I've been told this is called an "assemblage artist" to me that sounds like a fancy title for someone else. I am just the guy you see picking up rusted pieces of castoff junk because I see a sculpture waiting to happen." Steve Cook's art is engaging and humorous on purpose, it is very apparent that he receives great joy from watching how adults and kids interact with his art. "I love to see them smiling and even laughing at my creations. I can only hope that the piece inspires them to open their minds and use their imagination."
Butch White learned to use metal while making jewelry and stained glass in college art classes. This initial outlet for his creativity developed into the intricate wire sculptures he is creating today. He begins each piece with a basic shape, gradually adding dimension by applying solder, refining the shape into a well crafted sculpture. Chris Frieders' nature inspired iron wall sculptures are embedded with rich patina achieved by applying heat. His oak and pear tree sculptures are specifically influenced by the Sacramento River Delta area, where he grew up and still calls
home. Other works capture the spirit of the rugged coastline and the inland mountain terrain of California. "I am a farmer by trade; I live and work on my family's farm near Walnut Grove. I've spent my entire life tending and caring for trees and vines." As we view Chris' artwork it is easy to discern his love of the land, each of his sculptures is a tribute to the beauty of this region.
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