One lecture scheduled today at noon at Howard House (204 Second Ave, just north of James St) is by artist Dan Webb. He's got a show of amazing work opening there (one of the new pieces is at right). Dan is a friend I've watched for many years...Ten years (was it longer than that?) ago I went to his studio for a visit and ended up walking out with my latest purchase: a beautifully carved male head with huge "Dumbo" ears and eyeballs shooting from his sockets. An amazing piece, especially when you realize it's carved wood. The detail is just amazing. (Please note that he wasn't represented at that time or I would have made the purchase via his gallery) When I received the invite I emailed Howard House to get a price list for the show, but I was too late - mostly sold out or strong holds on the remaining available works. Lucky for me I didn't have to make a choice since his prices were beyond my current bank account balance. Go Dan!!I guess I'll just keep on enjoying my carved head on its little wood shelf. It would be a shame to have to split my admiration for the googly-eyed fella with a new piece, right? Yeah, that makes me feel better alright...
Another mention is about the Robert Motherwell show at Greg Kucera's gallery (212 Third Ave S, between Main and Washington). Greg has done it again...another great selection of prints from Motherwell. It would be difficult to find anyone on the West Coast with more knowledge about one of Washington State's most famous alumni. Please take note of my favorites: GLASS GARDEN (above) and SPRINGTIME DISSONANCE (below). I know you are supposed to be drawn to the reds the most of all, but I love his GREENS! What I like most of this show is that he focused on more gestural works...and that he has prints in a wide price range! Check is out - it's up until the 23rd.
And, if you know anyone who collects vintage nativity sets, I have a tip for you...Rick Rasmussen, a great theatrical stage designer has a secret hobby. He collects vintage nativity set figures and animals. He writes:
I have always enjoyed enjoyed collecting and displaying Christmas Nativity Scenes. The Nativity sets I create are collections of figures gathered from various sources. Each set is unique and is constructed from figures manufactured at various times and from numerous places throughout the world. The main sources for these figures are the countries of Italy, Germany, Japan, France and the United States. The figures in these scenes are for the most part Italian paper mache but may also be constructed of chalk, composition, hard rubber, ceramic and in a few cases, plastic.
They are vintage...the age may vary but most are probably from the 1950s and 1960s...I have repaired and refurbished some figures if I thought it would enhance the presentation of the group, but many will show the patina of time and use...this makes them more beautiful. I hope that it will help you celebrate the Christmas Spirit and become a tradition in your holiday celebration. The Creche that is sold with the figures is hand made by myself in the hope that it will enhance the beauty and uniqueness of each Nativity group."So, if you are into the collecting of such sets or are looking for a gift, come see them at Gallery Frames downstairs from ArtREsource (625 First Ave, at Cherry) and in our back area of the gallery.
Have a great weekend!
