Silversmithing photo by Tara Burns

WBCA In the News

Art Center set for second Open Canvas

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

By Mike Morgan

For the second year in a row, over 40 artists will complete original works of art in a live event at the White Bear Lake Armory benefiting the White Bear Center for the Arts.

Art center volunteers built four large walls for local and regional artists to work on. They will spend Saturday May 20 creating original work that will be auctioned off at the end of the night.

"It really creates a gallery-like atmosphere in the Armory," Hudson said, adding that the interactive event allowed for work that "astounded" attendants last year.

Artists are free to use whatever style or methods they chose, Hudson said. Last year styles ranged from realistic landscapes to abstract surrealism.

"Every artist really brings their own style and subject," Hudson said.

Artists will begin working early in the afternoon, with doors opening to attendants at 6 p.m. Bidding continues throughout the night and will be wrapped up by 10 p.m. so winners can take their artwork home.

All of the materials are being donated. The artists are donating their time as well, she said.

Several area restaurants are donating hors d'oeuvres and beverages.

Because artists generally work independently, the event allows rare interaction between artists. It also gives art fans a chance to view the creative process, said Hudson.

"It's really like a fabulous cocktail party in an artists studio," she said.

The Paul Berger Jazz Trio will perform at the end of the event.

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