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Upcoming Show

August 2 - August 27

Chris Flory
Nelida Otero Flatow

Opening Reception: Friday, August 5,
7-10 p.m.

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James Gemma and Mitzi Shewmake

June 28 - July 30, 2011
Reception: Friday, July 1, 7-10 pm

Artworks Gallery presents a two-person exhibit with James Gemma, abstract paintings and serigraphs, and Mitzi Shewmake, sculpture.

James Gemma is showing works which explore the visual relationships among and between shapes and colors. These relationships are derived and supported by geometric and analytical concepts, as well as artistic principles. An objective of his work is to be interactive with the viewer, that is, for perusal to yield multiple interpretations and shifting perceptions. While his work is perceptually based, he does not regard it as “op art,” but rather as conceptually-based art. Some of his work can stimulate a strong visual response, while others may generate a more contemplative reaction.

Mr. Gemma graduated with advanced degrees from The Ohio State University. After completing his career as a consumer research professional, he studied art and printmaking at Salem College and Wake Forest University. He also participated in multiple art workshops at Penland, the Huntington Museum of Art, and the Sawtooth Center for Visual Art. Mr. Gemma served four years as board member of Associated Artists of Winston Salem. As Marketing Chairperson, he created the Practicing Artist Series of lectures and critiques. Working with Reynolda House Museum of American Art, he brought nationally known artists to participate, including William Bailey, Elisabeth Osborne, Philip Pearlstein and Janet Fish.

Mitzi Shewmake is showing sculpture that consists of three small clay works plus two structural works that combine cement stucco and clay. One is an imaginary cityscape with structures and clay figures, the other is one structure with a snake. Ms. Shewmake grew up in Woodstock, NY and Tucson, Az. She attended George Washington University in DC. She received her MFA at UNC-G, then taught art at WSSU. She started the Diggs Gallery with the help of Gordon Hanes, and became its first director. About her current work, she says: "I think probably that living in AZ in that desert country has more to do with my sculpture than any other influence. To a great extent I think that my sculpture is all about forms and spaces as is the desert landscape." She is also influenced by the Mayan ruins and the cliff dwellings of the early pueblo peoples in the Southwest.

The reception is Friday, July 1 from 7 - 10pm during Gallery Hop.

The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Click on image for a larger view.
James Gemma, "Prisma," acrylic on board
Mitzi Shewmake, "Face Your Fears with Nonchalance," cement stucco & clay