Printmaker, painter and muralist, Lacy Hale invited me to ehibit some of my printmaking work and artZines at the Appalshop gallery in Whitesburg, KY. I have been a fan of her work ever since meeting her online. Not only is her art beautiful and magical, it also has social conscious, and is closely tied to her community. She recently finished a mural for the 2nd Mountain Mural fest in Harlan, KY.
She is interviewed as part of the news coverage of the event, and the story tells is a great example of why it’s so important to have art and artists in rural spaces. You can watch the MYMT segment here
As a rural artist, I’m interested in how we can help make a positive impact on our small towns. Whitesburg is an inspiring example of what is possible when creative people stay and make a positive change in their small towns.
For a small mountain town with only 2000 people, there’s a lot of creative type businesses, music venues, cafes and public art.
Most of the main street buildings were occupied, and my first impression was that it has a good energy, and is the kind of place I would want to visit again.
I had never visited Appalshop, but over my last 19 years as a Kentuckian, their documentaries have helped shape my understanding of our region.
I consider Appalshop to be a national treasure. For 50 years, they have used the power of arts and culture to create meaningful social and economic change in our region. It was a thrill to see their studio and to meet some of the people who make it happen.
Not only does Appalshop create documentaries — they also create filmmakers.
Across the street from their studio is another one of their programs: The Appalachian Media Institute (AMI).
AMI is a community-based arts and education center offering training and resources for young creatives and filmmakers.
The program has been helping young artists and filmmakers for over 30 years. The current program coordinator, Willa Johnson is an alumni of the program.
My printmaking exhibit will be at the Appalshop gallery from July 9 until August 22nd. I’m excited to announce that, at the closing of the exhibit (August 22), we are going to kick off our next artZine season by making one at AMI!
This will be an opportunity for YOU to visit Whitesburg, and get to know some of it’s people–while making art together!
Our theme for Summer’s ArtZine is:
Art Makes the World Better by…
so go ahead and start working on your entries! See you in Whitesburg!
