PRESS RELEASE
The Art Spirit Gallery celebrates its 150th show with over 100 new works by notable regional artists Harold Balazs and Mel McCuddin. The two artists have a combined 120 years of professional art-making experience, and gallery owner Steve Gibbs has proudly represented both since The Art Spirit’s opening in 1997. Development of the region’s visual culture is the cornerstone of The Art Spirit Gallery’s mission; Gibbs, McCuddin, and Balazs have worked collaboratively towards that goal for 15 years.
Harold Balazs and Mel McCuddin have presented their work in numerous group and solo shows at The Art Spirit Gallery. When featured together, as in 2001, 2007 and now in 2013, the viewer might remark on how each artist’s work complements the others. Perhaps this is due in part to their long-time friendship. Both in their eighties, McCuddin and Balazs display the constant creative expansion that rises from the foundation of loving marriages. Rosemary Balazs and Gloria McCuddin are each indispensable partners in their husbands’ lives and studios.
Individually, McCuddin and Balazs have strong personal styles and working methods, but a common theme of intelligent humor links the content of their works. Mel McCuddin’s process combines expressive mark-making with an intense examination of human and animal figures. The results of his approach are paintings and prints that depict a mysterious yet palpable presence. Harold Balazs maintains the strong studio practice that has characterized his entire career. His recent acrylic paintings are evidence of an ever-expanding mastery of line, color and space.
ArtWalk and the Opening Reception for this landmark exhibition is on Friday the 13th of September from 5-8. All are welcome to this event that is sure to be a great party with a few surprises!
*NOTE: Sales of the new works by Balazs and McCuddin will open in the gallery at the Opening Reception at 5:00 on Friday the 13th. Phone and email sales will open at 6:00.
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Harold and Mel will give an informal talk/demonstration starting at 1:00 on Saturday, Sept. 14.
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This show is sponsored by McLachlan Investment Services- a Registered Investment Advisor: Investment Advice, Retirement Planning and Asset Management Services.
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