OH YES IT WAS 80'S NIGHT!

Osiris had a birthday and we all went dancing!

Laura and I

Anit, Laura, and Leigh

Christina & Theron

Anit & I

Osiris in his red shorts and friends

Christina and Laura cut a rug

Laura models her press on nails!

OSIRIS RAIN & JOSHUA GAGE EXHIBIT

I have a new gig as the Charlotte Contemporary Art Writer for Examiner.com. I will be posting all of my articles here as well. Here is my first! I'm looking forward to seeing their show tomorrow evening.

Left: Osiris Rain, Right : Joshua Gage

OSIRIS RAIN & JOSHUA GAGE EXHIBIT

This month, Dialect Design presents Charlotte painters Osiris Rain and Joshua Gage in their loft space in the historic NoDa neighborhood.

A Charlotte native, Rain has studied under several notable artists, including Odd Nerdrum in Norway, Michael John Angel at the Academy of Art in Florence Italy, John Seibels Walker, Steven Assael, and Jacob Collins. An avid traveler and adventurer, one senses this broad exposure to the world in his handling of imagery. Rain's works in the show are new explorations, largely comprised of figurative works in which he infuses unusual light and color into his classically based imagery. The painting depicting a woman holding a canary in a coal mine is particularly striking. His small still life, entitled Bachelor, draws the viewer in with a strong composition, and arrangement of objects of alcohol, cigarettes, and the like.

Capturing urban scenes with a bit of grit, Joshua Gage transforms often overlooked places into compelling works of art. Highlights include the old rusty Coffee Cup sign and a train stretching into the distance in font of the Charlotte skyline. Both works are successful in evoking nostalgia. Known for his mastery of trompe l' oeil, Joshua incorporates this proficiency into his slightly decayed subjects. Gage's family is full of artists; his Great Grandfather was a faux finisher in the 1800's. He hails from Wisconsin but has been happy to live and exhibit his work in Charlotte.

Dialect Design's loft is inviting. Situated on the second floor of the historic Louder building, the exposed brick and beams showcase the artwork well. Dialect is a design build firm with a focus on modern and European design. Partners Toby Witte and Jahan Nourbakhsh are filling a void in Charlotte's cultural landscape in hosting these exhibits and art talks. The pair do not take a commission on sales but rather exchange a tiny work from the artist. The focus is put squarely on the art and ideas at hand. Stop by for a glass of wine and mingle; there is always sure to be a friendly, smart, and thought provoking crowd present.

OPENING RECEPTION AND PUBLIC ARTIST’S TALK: Friday January 8th, 6 pm, 3204-C N Davidson St.

EXHIBITION: January 8th – February 7th

To learn more about this event and for more information about Dialect please visit www.dialectdesign.com

NEW YEAR'S EVE IN ASHEVILLE

Kelly, Laura, me, Anit, Cher, and Cindy

The Avett Brothers!

KEVIN HOGAN STUDIO TOUR

Kevin Hogan is one of the wonderful artists we represent at Center of the Earth Gallery in Charlotte. He and his wife Jo were so kind to open up their home to several of my friends and myself when we came to Asheville for New Year's Eve. The next day he gave us a tour of his fantastic studios and works in progress!