Launch of Lincoln Art Institute’s ‘Open Easel’ a perfect evening
A gallery full of fine art, music, food, a warm reception enjoyed by all

[March 19, 2015]  LINCOLN - The Lincoln Art Institute was the place to be Thursday evening. A large crowd of art lovers from throughout central Illinois gathered for the opening reception of the “Open Easel” show, a concept that was brought to fruition by Logan County Arts member Mitch Douglas.

Douglas and members of Logan County Arts put out the call to central Illinois artists that for this show, the Lincoln Art Institute was their venue. More than thirty artists took advantage of the invitation. Each was allowed to submit five pieces. According to Logan County Arts member Pam Moriearty, artists from Lincoln, Springfield, Decatur, Mason City, Manito and Pekin submitted their work. Members of LAI were on hand last Monday to welcome the artists and catalog their submissions.

According to Pam, the job of hanging all of the art was a challenge. It took the group about four hours to group the pieces so that the items did not clash with one another and there was a good flow along the walls given the variety of art that was brought in. There were no restrictions on what type of art was allowed in the show. Poetry, woodworking, jewelry, ceramics, photography, water colors, sculpture, and more traditional paintings were on view. Every spare inch of display space at the Lincoln Art Institute was utilized.

Once again the lighting and beautiful space at the Lincoln Art Institute compliments the art. LAI owner Moses Pinkerton had a vision for the building that he bought in 2008. After two years of hard work, the Lincoln Art Institute and Think Tank opened its doors in 2010. The LAI has brought a wonderful space for art to Lincoln, a very unique venue that has been drawing crowds of art lovers that has enhanced downtown Lincoln.

The entire Shull family Don, Sandy and daughter Deb Andrews, exhibited art at Open Easel Thursday evening. Don’s head turning sculpture “Hot Job” brought second glances throughout the evening. It has been in the front window all week, and word has it that people walking past had to stop and check it out. Heather Cosby, owner of Flossie & Delzena’s, catered the event. “I have noticed that there are several generations of families attending the opening tonight”, she said.

Logan County Arts member Tony Shuff, his wife Pam and daughter Rachelle, provided music for the first half of the evening. Tanya Conrady and Maureen Douglas played Celtic Harps for the second act. It was the complete evening.

Open Easel runs through the end of March. Contact Moses Pinkerton to arrange for a showing. His number is 217-651-8355.

The next Logan County Arts show will open on Thursday April 9 with an opening reception. The theme will be Religious and Spiritual Inspiration.

[Curt Fox]