Local photographer T. G. Simpson captured the spirit of the woodland in her tryptic of trees. From left to right, Lincoln Ave., Memorial Park and Kickapoo Creek Park.

"Calling All Artists." Now is your opportunity to share your talent

[March 10, 2015]  LINCOLN - Logan County Arts has received an enthusiastic response to its recent call to local artists to participate in its upcoming Open Easel: Calling All Artists Show. The participants represent a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, fine woodworking and poetry. The exhibit will open with a reception from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, March 12 at the Lincoln Art Institute (next to the Lincoln Post Office).

Since several of these artists do not routinely show publicly, "Calling All Artists" will be an opportunity for the community to see works that are available for viewing for the first time.

In addition to the art display, the exhibit well represent a first for Lincoln Art Institute, since this will be the first art event to feature live music. The duo of Pam and Rachelle Shuff will provide guitar and keyboard music from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Pam has played guitar music internationally, while daughter Rachelle is currently performing with the cover band "Glory Days". From 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. the duet of Maureen Douglas and Tanya Conrady will fill the gallery with the sweet melodic tones of the Celtic harp. They are familiar to Logan County music lovers since they have played at the Chapel in Elkhart for over 20 years.

Thanks to sponsorship by the ME Realty team and Joe Ryan of Country Financial, refreshments will be catered by restaurateur Heather Cosby, owner of Flossie & Delzena's.

Exhibit organizer Mitch Douglas has put together a true celebration of art to welcome some new artists to the Art Institute. T. G. Simpson, whose nature photography will be displayed, is a first time exhibitor. “My high school hobby evolved into a passion. Nature lets me express my feelings through the lens,” she says. She also notes, "Sometimes a picture is just a picture". When asked what made her decide to participate in the show, she noted, “Mitch, who is also a photographer, urged me to exhibit my pictures. I agreed, but not without reservations.” Mitch responds, “Her work is definitely an asset to the show. And since the deadline for submission is March 9, there is still time for others to participate.” Artwork can be dropped off at the Art Institute, 112 S. McLean, Lincoln, between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. For information contact Douglas at 217-7377428 or [e-mail]. 

[Mitch Douglas, Logan County Arts]