Murphy – Two exhibits are featured in the Cherokee County Arts Council’s Cultural Calendar Room at the Murphy Art Center this month.
The walls are covered with 13 paintings by Ann Miller Woodford for her “Black in Black on Black” exhibit. While Woodford has been featured in the gallery in the past as part of the “When All God’s Children Get Together” traveling exhibit from Western Carolina University based on her book sharing the history of African Americans in the area, this is the first time she’s solely been featured as an artist.
David Vowell, director of the arts council, said some of Woodford’s works in the show have never been seen in the area before.
“Some are new, and some are quite old,” he added.
Woodford said it was exciting and fun to show her paintings.
“That’s what my God-given gift is – painting,” Woodford said.
The show is named after her new Black in Black on Black series of paintings in which she depicts beautiful dark-skinned people wearing black in front of black backgrounds.
Vowell said “He” and “Queen” – two works from that series – are a departure in style for her. “Woman with Mean Eyes” is his favorite of her paintings in the exhibit, especially after learning the story behind it.
“When you look at that face in that painting, you don’t want to mess with her,” he said.
Woodford’s work surrounds the Mountain Potters Network’s show, “The Teapot Challenge.” This is the second annual show for the group.
Vowell said the group approached him just over two months ago with the idea for the show. Ribbons will be awarded to potters in three categories – whimsical, functional and what the heck is that.
“I absolutely love it,” Vowell said. “They sold me on the idea, and they delivered.”
He said the exhibit shows what can be done with clay and gives a local art group better exposure. It features about two dozen pieces made by local potters.
Both exhibits opened Friday and run through Nov. 30. The MAC is at 33 Valley River Ave. downtown.