Opening Night for 20 Artists of Worcester
by linnea - November 14, 2008 3:11pm
Opening night of the 20 Artists of Worcester exhibit will be held tonight from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Davis Art Gallery, on the third floor of the Printers Building at 44 Portland Street. The evening will include a book signing with photographer Scott Erb and writer Julie Grady, as well as a gallery show, and a meet and greet with the artists.
Erb let us in on the background of the project. “The biggest most unbelievable misconception is that Worcester doesn’t have real talent, and that you need to go to a larger city like New York or Boston to find high quality real ability and skill,” he explained. “But Worcester is a remarkable city – full of expertise and truly gifted people. The talent showcased in this book- is proof in and of itself. It was important to me to try and say something positive about Worcester. I felt it important to try and showcase that- Look who is right in your own backyard! I hope this book conveys that.”
Cynthia Woehrle by Erb
The book showcases 20 artists from the Worcester area, and gives insight into their creative process by showing them in their studios. The project was funded by an Individual Grant from the Worcester Cultural Commission.
Antonio Fonseca by Erb
As for what Erb and the other contributors are trying to accomplish Erb points out that he is hoping to get more people involved. “Honestly – I was thinking about the folks would just don’t show up. I am speaking to the folks who don’t realize what a vibrant city this could be if they just came out to these events,” he said. “The galleries, the street festivals, the parks- and all the great activities and programs this city offers. Just come out! Join in- be a part of something beyond your living rooms and computer screens. Show up and be part of your community. We do these things to enrich one another’s lives. But it only makes an impact if you show up…. ”
If you can’t make the show tonight you can order the book here. You can also check out a preview of what you can expect at the 20 Artists of Worcester website, and Erb’s work on his photography site.
The exhibit will be on display at the Davis Art Gallery during regular hours, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through January 23, 2009.
Jonathan Lucas