A note from Pine Shores Art Gallery Director, Tom Rutledge
Last year's Art Harvest Show was bigger than ever! The national calendar for art exhibits really begins in the fall, after people are home from vacation and back to work and school. Of course 2020 and 2021 were not normal years, but of all the challenges we’ve all been through because of the international pandemic, we can be very glad that we have this outlet for expression through painting and drawing.
PSAA has monthly shows year round, but the Art Harvest Show was our major one and the culmination of the gallery’s calendar year, because in December we just celebrate with fun holiday art.
Some of our members think that because there are cash awards, this show is just for very experienced artists. As chair of the Gallery Committee, I promise you nothing could be further from the truth. I look at this show as an opportunity for all our members to challenge themselves and share with all of us how they’ve grown into their art. We haven’t been able to have as many classes last year, but Pine Shores members who are just starting to emerge into their work can think about the tips they’ve picked up in the past.
For all of us, whether creating from long experience or just emerging into your own artistic moments, this is certainly a year to reach into that inner well and see what’s there. Difficult, emotional times can bring out personal expressions that we didn’t know were in us. Creating your idea whether in Pastel, Pen and Ink, Colored Pencil, Watercolor, Oil, Graphite, Acrylic or whatever medium you use, is a wonderful way to relieve tension and pour your heart out into something colorful and tangible. It can be emotionally rewarding, topped off by the glow of personal achievement.
That’s what I’m asking all of you to do in 2022. This a new year in front of you to create something. Please do that and then share it with all of us through the Online Shows. I promise you’ll reap personal satisfaction from trying to be your best and discovering you can be better than you thought.
I believe in you. All of PSAA does. Let’s see what you can do. I can’t wait.
One more note, we will no longer be accepting late entries. It takes more time than anyone realizes to layout the online shows so they complement one another. Thank you for your understanding.
Warm regards from one who believes art can transform us all.
Tom Rutledge
