Turning Point Gallery News

The Ancient Art of Chinese Paper Sculpture

2010-03-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

Chinese Paper Sculpture is a unique art form that has existed for thousands of years featuring both national and regional themes. Its origin is closely connected with the invention of paper during the Han dynasty (206 BC - 221 AD.) As paper was highly precious in the early days, the art of paper cutting first became popular in the royal palaces and houses of nobility as a favorite pastime among court ladies. Later, during the 7th through 13th centuries, paper cutting was immensely popular during folk festivals and celebrations. By the 14th century, the art had spread to the Middle East and Europe; and by the 15th century onward, cut paper art works had become an integral part of the everyday life of the people. It is said that entrances decorated with paper cut outs bring good luck.

In the rural countryside in mainland China, paper cutting is a traditionally female activity. In the past, every girl was expected to master it and brides were often judged by their skill. Professional papercutting artists are, on the other hand, usually male and have guaranteed incomes and work together in workshops.

There are two tools used for Chinese paper cutting: scissors and knives. Different artists use one or the other or both depending on their preferences and the piece they are working on.

The art of paper cutting has been on the verge of dying out during the past century as old China experienced successive years of the disaster of war brought on by domestic turmoil and foreign invasion. Amidst a myriad of changes in their lives, most people had no leisure time to engage in the study of the art of paper cutting. Today Chinese artisans are trying to revive the ancient art form and share it with the rest of the world.

Chinese Paper Sculpture interest continues to grow

2010-03-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery continues to support the local United States Equine Rescue League as the problem of neglected horses continues to grow and costs of care go up.

To help to financially support the volunteers, we are selling Chinese Paper Sculptures which are sealed in a shadow box type frame.

Give the Gift of Art

2009-12-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

Turning Point Gallery has great gift ideas for any occasion! Our Gift Solutions pages show in stock items ready to be picked up or shipped for any price range. We also have gift certificates available in any amount. Call us at 919-967-0402 or email us at turningpointgallery@harmonyfineart.com with any questions or to make a purchase.

Gifts Under $50

Gifts $50-$100

Gifts $100-$150

Gifts $150-$200

Gifts $200-$300

Gifts $300-$500

Hand Colored Etchings by Simon Bull

2009-10-27T16:19:00.000-07:00

Trained in the art of printmaking, Simon Bull has gone on to discover new and exciting ways of expressing his personal artistic vision through this powerful medium. The etchings, which were his signature works in the UK, were developed over a period of years and combine his love of watercolor, traditional etching and aquatint techniques. Together with a joyous expression of form, he fuses all of these elements into a celebration of color and life.

In 1997 Simon was awarded the accolade of the UK best-selling artist award shortlist, despite competing with a hand made editions program against mass produced editions. Again in the year 2000 he was short listed for the awards, this time in two categories: Best selling published artist overall and best selling original print artist. He won outright the Artist's Print Award for being the best selling artist in the UK of original hand finished prints.

Below is a quick description of the painstaking process involved in producing each hand colored etching.

First, Simon created the original copper plates by painting his designs in acid resistant varnish and then immersing them in acid several times to produce a ink holding texture. This plate is cleaned and reused for each print in the edition.

To produce and etching from the original plate, an even layer of ink is applied with a roller. The plate is polished with a course cloth, known as a scrim. The scrim removes the ink from the surface only, leaving some of the ink trapped in the etched areas.

The plate is then placed on the press and damp paper is laid on top. The plate and paper are pulled through the press, with the pressure of the press forcing the paper into the textured areas, thus transferring the ink.

The resulting black and white print is then hand colored with water based, transparent layers of colored ink. As soon as the inks are dry the gold sizing is brushed on and gold foil is laid in its place.

Next Simon adds pastel to the darker areas to enhance the jewel like feel. The pastel introduces a layer of opaque color to complement the transparent layers of ink. The piece is finally completed after Simon adds his signature and the edition number in pencil below the image.

Turning Point Gallery is going to be offering a variety of Simon's hand colored etchings for our November 2009 Simon Bull show. These etchings have increased in value ten fold since he last produced one in 2001. Come by the gallery to see these vivid works of art as well as a special order catalog of other available etchings!

Raku Pottery Process (by Joyce Furney of The Clay Cellar)

2009-09-30T14:24:00.000-07:00

Joyce Furney, working at The Clay Cellar in Kansas, makes spectacular metallic luster raku pottery that is incredible in its color and form. Turning Point Gallery has proudly carried her work for years and is very excited to be featuring over 100 of her pieces in October. The show will be opening October 9, 2009 at the 2ndFriday Artwalk from 6-9pm and will be up through November 9. We've provided Joyce's description of the Raku process below so those interested can have a better understanding of the uniqueness of her work!

The Art of Raku is attributed to Zen Buddhist Monks of 16th Century Japan and was favored for the tea bowls of the great tea masters. In that culture and time Raku was much more than a method of making and firing pottery, it was a philosophy. The Japanese symbol for Raku can be translated as "enjoyment of freedom." However, as is often the case with adapting the philosophies of other cultures, we in the west have distilled Raku to a technical process. Raku is now generally accepted to mean a method of rapid firing and cooling of ceramic ware, and names the finished product.

Raku is the firing method used at The CLAY CELLAR. The process as we employ it involves the following: forms are either wheel- thrown or hand built, using a white raku clay body formulated to withstand great thermal shock. Metallic stains and engobes (colored clays) are often brushed on the greenware forms for decoration. When trimmed and dried, the vessels are bisque fired to cone 04. The forms are then glazed with either crackle white glaze or a variety of metallic luster glazes. When thoroughly dry the forms are gas-fired to 1660-1800 degrees.

Once glaze-mature temperature is reached, the kiln is shut off and opened. The forms are removed with raku tongs and placed in a reduction sand pit lined with paper. The hot form ignites the combustibles, and a lid is lowered over the ware, smothering the fire and starving it of oxygen. The forms remain in this smoky environment for 5 to 20 minutes. Three important reactions occur: First, the glazes are reduced. Since a fire needs a sufficient amount of oxygen to burn properly, the oxygen molecules contained in the clay and glazes are being removed from the glaze mix, thus reducing the glaze.

This produces the rich metallic luster colors ranging from oxidized copper greens through reduced copper blues, purples, plums, reds, and copper penny which are the hallmark of metallic luster raku glazes. Secondly, carbon from the smoke is being trapped in the white clay body, turning it gray to black wherever the glaze cracked or the body was left unglazed.

This reaction creates the traditional Raku crackle effect. The third important reaction is the additional cooling of the form. This helps prevent massive thermal shock cracks from occurring when the form is removed from the reduction barrel and quenched in water. The quenching is more important with metallic luster glazes than crackle white, because the water freezes the color and prevents re-oxidation from occurring. The form is then thoroughly washed, exposing the rich colors that lie beneath the carbon black. The Raku experience is serendipitous and more often than not yields spectacularly brilliant results.

There are three very important WARNING DISCLAIMERS we want to state very plainly. Due to the glaze chemistry and low firing process used:
1. RAKU IS NOT FOOD SAFE!
2. RAKU IS NOT WATER TIGHT!
3. RAKU IS FRAGILE!
The metallic luster glazes we use contain carbonates, oxides, and nitrates that will leach out if in contact with food acids. Therefore NEVER USE A RAKU METALIC LUSTER VESSEL WITH FOOD. Consider them as vessels for visual pleasure and enjoy them in the love with which we make them. It should also be stated that even though their form may imply a function, that function is limited by the fragile nature of the non-vitrified clay body. Specifically in the case of vases, if used as a fresh cut flower vase, water would eventually leach through the porous clay and leave a stain on a wood table. Therefore if used with water use a plastic liner or place the vase on a glass plate to protect your furniture.

Raku should always be handled with care as it does not have the strength of stoneware. Whenever possible, use both hands to pick it up and never pick a piece up by its lip. Raku may be cleaned with a mild soap and water or lightly buffed with very fine (0000) steel wool.

We hope you're intrigued! Raku is unique, affordable, and appreciated by nearly everyone. Great for spicing up a room or giving as a gift! With over 100 of Joyce's pieces (not all shown on the website) there is surely something for everyone!

Number One in the Edition of Four Simon Bull Giclees!

2009-08-01T15:58:00.000-07:00

Those of you familiar with art reproductions know how important the numbering system can be. Low numbers in small editions are the most valuable in a series. Simon Bull's highly collected worldwide work is no exception. That's why we at Turning Point Gallery were thrilled when we received not one, but FOUR of Simon's newest pieces that were number one in their editions!

Often artists will keep the number one piece or arrange for it to go to a special client. So now we are offering you the chance to be that special client and own a number one piece of internationally known artist Simon Bull! (Wikipedia- Simon Bull) Call 919.967.0402, come by, or email us today to make sure you don't miss out!

Scrapel Hill Art 1st Place Winner Now at Turning Point Gallery

2009-07-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

On June 30, 2009, months worth of public votes from University Mall's Scrapel Hill Art Show were tallied and a winner was announced. Paul and Ginger Bauer's Shaker style clock entitled "RE:eVALUation" came in first place.

"RE:eVALUation" considers the element of time and features a functioning timepiece. The Bauers created it using the construction plans for a Shaker clock ("grandfather" style) from the early 1800's. Instead of following these plans in precise detail, they used various metal and plastic found objects incorporated into its design. "RE:eVALUation" will now be available exclusively at Turning Point Gallery. We hope you'll come by the gallery and see this magnificent piece for yourselves!

"We want to stress the urgent need to rescue our environment and that time is of the essence. With today's emphasis on how much one should accomplish in a day, we would like to create an object that makes people think about their hectic pace of life and how much is wasted each day. Constructing a time-related piece of art with re-purposed and recycled materials can emphazise the need to not waste time and valuable resources." -Paul and Ginger Bauer

The First Annual Scrapel Hill Art Contest and Exhibition of University Mall in Chapel Hill featured works by local artists created of recycled and non recyclable materials. Scrapel Hill Art was created to celebrate and inspire imagination and creativity within our community by utilizing and nurturing the arts. The donations yielded by voting were divided between The Chamber of Commerce to support Green Plus and The ArtsCenter for their scholarship program.

Father's Day is Sunday, June 21!

2009-06-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

No idea what to get your Dad for Father's Day? We know Dad can be hard to shop for, so at Turning Point Gallery we've made a gift guide by price range with great, Fatherly gifts! Make this year stand out by getting him a piece of art that will last a lifetime!

Tanner Jensen: Horse Art Making Headlines

2009-05-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery's own horse artist Tanner Jensen has made a splash in the horse world as of late with two of her pieces featured on the cover of two different equestrian magazines in May!

Her first cover was the May 8, 2009 issue of The Chronicle of the Horse. The Chronicle of the Horse is written for the accomplished competitor. The magazine reports on nearly every major hunter/jumper horse show, dressage show, horse trials, steeplechase and driving event as well as foxhunting and events abroad. Regular features include in-depth profiles, valuable health care and training tips, all geared to the seriously involved competitor.

Tanner's second cover of the month was the May/June 2009 issue of Topline Ink Equestrian Journal. Topline Ink Equestrian Journal is an educational publication for dedicated dressage & sport horse riders interested in quality training for horse and rider. The magazine is an excellent resource for learning and pursuing goals.

We congratulate Tanner for her well deserved recognition in the horse world!

Our Newest Artist Additions!

2009-05-14T14:31:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery has recently added a new painting duo from Santa Fe, Newkirk & Griffin, and a new sculptor from Pittsboro, NC, Tamera Mulanix, to it's line up of fabulous artists! Check out their work and more information about them below!

Reita Newkirk and Alice Griffin are friends and lifelong artists who have combined their unique talents and backgrounds to produce collaborative paintings that exalt the natural world and one of its most glorious creatures - the horse. For them the horse is a metaphor that embraces the spirit of nature, a connection that touches the hearts and minds of many people, even those who have had little or no direct experience with this magnificent animal. The horse has always been a symbol that registers in the collective unconscious as freedom, strength and powerful beauty.

Newkirk and Griffin combine materials, which vary from encaustic to oil, to create luminous surfaces of color and depth that resonate with the themes in their work. Their paintings feature both representational and abstract elements that lend scale and establish an emotional resonance between the landscape and the horses.

Tamera Mulanix comes from a family of welders. Her grandfather, uncle and cousins are all welders and the process has fascinated her for as long as she can remember. She studied welding and blacksmithing at Central Carolina Community College, and continued learning on her own and taking classes to perfect her technique.

"It is so fulfilling to finally take my vision and make it come to life. There's nothing I enjoy more than taking a rusty piece of scrap metal and turning into something beautiful."

Mother's Day Gifts for Every Budget!

2009-04-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up and for many that means stressing out over finding the perfect gift in your price range to show you mother how much you appreciate her. At Turning Point Gallery we've made your shopping easier! No gift is more thoughtful than a piece of art that will last a lifetime. Send your mother flowers that will never die, a flame that will never burn out, or just a pleasant piece of artwork to enjoy for years to come. We have something for every price range and we'll gladly gift wrap for free! Below is a sample of what we have to offer.

Under $30

Earrings by Wild Bryde

$30-$60

Ikebanas by Georgetown Pottery

$60-$100

Clay Tiles by Nancy Jacobsohn

$100-$200

UNC Belltower giclee by Gregory Georges

$200-$400

Clocks by Michael Mertes

For more gift ideas by price range visit our website.

Chapel Hill Artist Eduardo Lapetina

2009-04-14T12:14:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery's featured artist for April is Chapel Hill's Eduardo Lapetina. The 2ndFriday ArtWalk on April 10 was the artist reception and opening for this colorful show. Despite being Good Friday, almost 100 people came to the opening to view over 25 of Eduardo's newest paintings. Patrons young and old were drawn in by the vibrant colors and turbulent textures of Eduardo's works.

Eduardo was present at the show to greet old friends, talk about his pieces, and embrace any new purchasers of his work. His affable

spirit and genuine interest in everyone present was infectious and provided a wonderful atmosphere to view his work!

3 New Artists for March

2009-03-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

During the March 13, 2009 2ndFriday ArtWalk, Turning Point Gallery introduced three new artists. A poll of favorites was taken and all three artists had the same number of votes! The favorite piece by each artist is shown below with a short bio.

Massachusetts' Mary Calkins has become a diverse painter over the years as her many abilities, interests and experiences have been used to build a broad repertoire of imagery and styles. Her work has more recently turned towards the current modern trends for contemporary design influenced by its strong clean lines, bold forms and saturated colors.

A self-taught artist, Gregory Garrett drew upon adventures and travel as inspiration for his expression. When asked about his major influences, Garrett feels affected by every artist he’s ever seen. Aware of his own unique place in time, he finds inspiration in contemporary living and working artists, and feels that now is the most important period in the history of art.

The symbolic shapes and colors of Eduardo Lapetina's paintings express his deepest emotions and passion for life. This leads him to apply paint to the canvas in unusual ways; by pouring, splashing, dripping, and scratching. The paintings also require layers upon layers of paint to create sensuous and turbulent surface texture that is as vital and as complicated as life itself. Eduardo moved to Chapel Hill in 1976.

Congratulations to Ronnie Graham for winning the drawing for a Bell Tower giclee by Chapel Hill photographer Gregory Georges! She answered 8 of 10 trivia questions correctly to be entered into the drawing. Trivia questions and correct answers are posted below.

UNC Basketball Trivia-

Q: What basketball head coach has the most victories at UNC? A: Dean Smith

Q: What position does Tyler Hansbrough play? A: Power Forward

Q: What was the most recent year the UNC Men’s Basketball team won the NCAA championship? A: 2005

Q: Who is the ACC Player of the Year this year? A: Ty Lawson

Q: What year did Michael Jordan and Sam Perkins lead the Tarheels to a NCAA championship? A: 1982

Art Trivia-

Q: Where were the earliest forms of paper produced? A: Egypt

Q: In what decade was the first photograph taken? A: 1820s

Q: How much was the confirmed most expensive painting ever sold, Jackson's Pollock's "Number 5, 1948" sold for? A: $140 Million

First photo by Joseph Niepce in France in 1826

Q: What colors do you mix to get blue? A: You can’t make blue. Blue is a primary color

Q: What is the form of art reproduction in which a digital image of the original is sprayed onto the canvas in archival inks with a high end printer? A: giclee

Demos by NC Potter Sylvia Coppola a Hit

2009-02-18T07:58:00.000-08:00

Charlotte area potter Sylvia Coppola of Duck Creek Pottery demonstrated handbuilding with clay at Turning Point Gallery for the 2ndFriday ArtWalk on February 13. Artwalk participants were able to watch her make textured tripod mugs, and a handbuilt vase. She used items such as drawer pulls, napkin rings, buttons, and textured rolling pins to create the unique pieces. People were then encouraged to go inside the gallery to see over 100 pieces in their finished form.

A majority of Sylvia's work is made on the wheel. On Saturday, February 14 she demonstrated wheel throwing and altering for a very appreciative, enthralled crowd. A group of Girl Scouts selling cookies nearby were lucky enough to have the opportunity to earn their clay badges working with a pro as well! Sylvia took a little break from throwing to show them the art of pinch pot making to help them earn their badge. All in all it was an exciting event which inspired those young and old to learn more about pottery making and buy a beautiful pot to enjoy!

Sylvia Coppola - North Carolina potter show opens Feb 13

2009-02-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill’s University Mall welcomes renowned North Carolina potter Sylvia Coppola, founder of Duck Creek Pottery, to the 2ndFriday ArtWalk Feb. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Feb. 14 from 10 to 1 p.m. Coppola, a potter of 32 years, will incorporate her love of texture from weaving and basket making into the art of pottery. She will demonstrate handbuilding Feb. 13 and wheel throwing Feb. 14.

Sylvia took her first pottery class at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee during the mid-1970s. During that time, she developed a love for clay. She earned a bachelor of fine arts in jewelry and pottery, then took an avid interest in weaving, basket making and pottery. Later she adapted the texture and design of basketry and weaving to her first love, pottery.

Today, Sylvia Coppola’s unique, constantly evolving style incorporates more complex textures, shapes, colors and forms. From car mats to buttons and napkin rings, she transforms everyday objects into tools that help her create exceptional, textured work. This method produces exciting, fresh pieces for collectors to enjoy.

Sylvia Coppola’s pottery creations have led to numerous awards, a vast number of collectors, publications in magazines and books, and the opportunity to teach at workshops and classes. Turning Point Gallery invites you to experience, firsthand, her talent for creating distinctive pieces of art from the earth.

Annual Holiday Roundup of Horse Art

2008-12-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

Turning Point Gallery has rounded up more Ned Moulton wild horses to greet visitors to University Mall as they go to and from A Southern Season. The leader is 40" tall and dominates the scene. Most visitors are have seen Ned's racehorses in the gallery as well as in Lexington and in the clubhouses of major racetracks. Each one is an original and made in 3D out of plywood, acrylic and clear resin. The racehorses range in size from 40" down to 15" and entend anywhere from half an inch to 2.5 inches from the wall. Three and four are the most common starting races, but we have sold one or two and then every year more are added to a individual's collection.

Maeve Har ris continues to develop her ideas and mixed media techniques using horses as her subject matter. Bringing more horses to the Turning Point Gallery roundup is Tanner Jensen.

The coil built clay sculptures of Nan Jac obsohn and the bronze sculptures of Wayne Salge are always a wonderful addition to the roundup as well.

In Stone Time

2008-11-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

University Mall is launching their first annual Scrapel Hill Art calling for artists to create art from recycled materials.

Following University Mall's lead, Turning Point Gallery recently added another Green artist, Michael Mertes.

Michael Mertes has created In Stone Time clocks from Indian or Chinese slate and wood with proud histories.

Slate is a metamorphic rock. It is the alteration of a preexisting rock (the parent rock) due to heat and pressure caused by burial in the earth. Therefor, slate is part of nature's recycling.

Trees produce wood which has been used to build structures. These structures in turn are often restored after many years of use and the replaced wood is made available for art. Both clocks pictured have extensive histories.

See In Stone Time clocks on Michael Mertes page at HarmonyFineArt.com

Simon Bull show a great success

2008-11-19T11:16:00.000-08:00

Simon Bull once again demonstrated his ability to reach out to the Chapel Hill community. Many people make every effort to be available when Simon is in town. When he received the reminder email Thursday in Russia, Malcolm Forbes made sure that his flight schedule allowed him to make the event Friday night.

Simon began his show by recreating a scene he experienced coming over the mountains on the drive to the Triangle. He painted an 18x18 acrylic on canvas titled Carolina Mist.
Simon then added remarques to a number of his works creating some true family heirlooms.

And the highlight of this year's show was the pedigree dog series which can be seen on the Simon Bull Turning Point Gallery event page.

Simon Bull to paint and raise funds in Chapel Hill

2008-11-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

Turning Point Gallery features internationally acclaimed Simon Bull as the featured artist during the 2ndFriday ArtWalk in Chapel Hill November 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Simon Bull will meet collectors and demonstrate his painting techniques.

Simon Bull is also helping launch University Mall's first annual It's All About Giving day November 15, a special program for rasing money for 17 local charities. Simon will be painting from 10 until noon. The mall wide event lasts until 7 p.m. Bull's work has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the local community in the last eight years including $40,000 in the 2006 Angels Among Us program for brain tumor research.
This year a North Carolina tree and a series of dog portraits are featured in addition to his incredible flowers, landscapes and musical pieces.

Simon painted a spectacular North Carolina dogwood entitled "Morning Star". Turning Point Gallery has received an exclusive very-limited "Family Tree Edition" of 25 in a special 18-by-12-inch gallery wrapped giclée that Bull will enhance for each member of a family, creating an heirloom to be passed down through generations. Bull will also add a dedication to the back. Make an appointment to have Simon personalize a “Morning Star” while he is in Chapel Hill by calling (919) 967-0402 or email. You do not have to be present and Turning Point Gallery will ship one for $10.

Simon Bull has also released ten portraits of pedigree dogs available as giclées on canvas in three sizes: 36-by-36 inches, 24-by-24 inches and 18-by-18 inches. Right now, for the first time in the United States, Turning Point Gallery is offering a special open edition 15-by-15-inch size of these portraits for $195.

Learn more about Simon Bull’s upcoming visit to Turning Point Gallery at http://www.harmonyfineart.com/id235.html.

22 New Maeve Harris Originals available through Turning Point gallery

2008-10-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Maeve Harris once again creates some spectacular work in her Seattle studio and made available through Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill, NC.

14 Maeve Harris originals on paper from the smallest measuring 22x30 to the largest measuring 40x30.
This Maeve Harris is titled "Cellulose 2" and is 30x30.

And 8 Maeve Harris mixed media on canvas, ranging in size from 12x12 to 36.5x40.

Pictured are the 12x12 "Element 4" of the four "Element" series

and the 36.5x40 "Percy 1"

Baiser (to kiss) - by Maeve Harris arrives

2008-08-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Baiser by Maeve Harris in French means "to kiss" and arrived at Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill, NC last week. The creation of Baiser, which has a certain human chemistry connotation, is itself the product of years of careful study, practice and mixed media chemical experimentation by Maeve in her sudio or possibly laboratory. The result is a welcoming multi layered experience. For more about Maeve Harris and her current work go here.

August Transitions Show

2008-08-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery's new artists headline August as we continue to search the art world for the unique.

Tanner Jensen’s mixed media horses encompass not only the earthly elements, but also the spiritual. more......

Jason Ramsay Clark doesn’t merely carve a chunk of wood, he “deconstructs” the wood into 1” segments then reconstructs it with offsets followed by shaping, sanding and 10 coats of finish. He achieves this while still retaining the original grain. more...

For the serene waterscape best captured with oil on canvas you must experience Mai Shang’s fine line paintings. These 18” x 32” scenes are vacations at home. more.....

Six museums include Bob Haselle’s pottery in their collections. His technique for imprinting vaporized chemicals and combustibles on his pit fired pottery yields unique patterns. more.....

Three new pieces by bronze sculptor Wayne Salge, new Chinese Paper Sculpture , some new Nan Jacobsohn horses and the magical paintings of Eric Zwezerijnen

Ruffin Hobbs Leaves A Metal Sculpture legacy

2008-08-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

Ruffin Hobbs, whose art has been instrumental in our success as a gallery, died in an accidental fall on July 28, 2008. His yearly one man show was always filled with new ideas, from very large mobiles to small intricate wire sculptures produced up close one on one in front of our gallery.

Most of all we liked him as a friend and he will be missed.

Ruffin was a sculptor who lived and worked in southern Alamance County, North Carolina. As an artist primarily working in metal, he was fascinated by the interplay of wire, volume, and open space. Ruffin also explored how using combinations of different metals in his work could add color contrast, texture and strength. He often combined traditional metal working techniques, such as forged iron, with more contemporary methods, including hollow-form assembly.

Ruffin's most ambitious sculpture commission to date, was the design and fabrication of a pair of majestic stainless steel tigers for Princeton University.

Dubai's Helena Fann First US Show

2008-07-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

It was a colorful evening for the visitors to Turning Point Gallery on July 11th. Shown here in front of Helena Fann's work are gallery owners Garry and Jerri Meldrum, Helena center and Art Consultants Sarah Coppola and Marlowe Dutton.

Undersea Imagery With Nude Drama

2008-07-03T02:57:00.000-07:00

Artist’s Acrylics Stage Turning Point From South African to Dubai Culture

Feathery angelfish float serenely through a sea of dramatic aquatic hues in one painting, as a human female form wrapped in erotic ribbons of color radiates nearby in another. Could both paintings come from same artist? Only if that artist is Helena Fann.

Turning Point Gallery’s featured artist July 3-Aug. 4 presents “Scales, Skins and Things,” an unlikely blend of undersea splendor with startlingly beautiful—and mature—human forms. Known for her vibrant aquatic and nude paintings, acrylic artist Fann recently relocated to Raleigh, but was born in South Africa and owns a home in Dubai.

“With me I bring a bit of Dubai culture—in the form of abstracts, which is very popular over there,” she says. “They love rich colors, the color of the ocean, the warmth of the desert and the color of gold.”

Fann will attend an opening reception during the 2ndFrday ArtWalk at Turning Point gallery July 11 from 6-9. Fann will also serve as the judge for a Turning Point Gallery children’s art contest, which seeks 2D, 8-by-10-inch undersea pictures in any medium from contestants in two age groups: 3-5 and 6-8. The gallery will award a prize to the winner of each group, as well as an overall prize of an original painting by Fann.

Fann matriculated from Johannesburg School of Art, Ballet & Music. She was commissioned to illustrate a children's book during her final year in school, and went on to work in the display department of a large company designing posters and building props for window displays. After marriage and the birth of her son, Fann started her own advertising and promotions company, which left little time for painting. She moved to Cape Town in 1993 with her new husband and extended family, where she was able to fully pursue her passion for drawing and painting.
“The clear vibrant colors she uses together with the strong lights and darks give depth to the ocean and to the painting,” says Patricia Southcombe, former gallery director of Hunar Gallery in Dubai. “In their own way, these paintings are also very evocative with the floating fins of the angelfish.”

Christopher Southcombe met Fann while serving as Dubai International Art Centre’s chairman when she joined on as a teacher, and was particularly struck by the originality of her nude works. “Sensuality is well expressed in forms such as those clothed in the leopard skin and the giraffe skin,” he says. “By depicting only a part of the female form, essential characteristics of each animal can be inferred. The graceful power of the leopard and the serene elegance of the giraffe are subtly expressed.”

Learn more about Fann, her upcoming show and the children’s art contest at www.harmonyfineart.com.

Painter Wilfred Lang "Summer Abroad"

2008-06-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill will display 15 original paintings from acrylic artist Wilfred Lang June 5-July 3 in an exhibit titled “Summer Abroad”. The gallery will also feature his work at the 2ndFriday ArtWalk June 13, 6-9.

Wilfred’s unique and instantly recognizable style reveals a clever use of color coordinating and color integration techniques that create three-dimensional effects. He combines elements of Eastern and Western culture and inspiration, displaying what Turning Point Gallery owner Jerri Meldrum calls “a pleasing transition between realism and abstract” for local collectors.

The artist, who signs his paintings as “Wilfred,” exhibits original work in Hawaii, New York, Hong Kong and Barcelona in addition to Chapel Hill. Born in Shanghai, Wilfred currently resides in Amsterdam, which serves as his second home and the gateway for sharing his art with the world.

Wilfred started watercolor painting at the age of 7, and attended art schools in China and Hong Kong, where he began his modern contemporary work. His acrylic-on-canvas paintings are gallery-wrapped so they do not require further framing, since the image wraps around the edge. Wilfred paints in large formats with the majority of his artwork covering 40x40 inches or 36x48 inches—an exceptional value for such high quality work.

“When I am not creating art, I enjoy walking my dogs in the forest around my town,” Wilfred says. “People who know me best would describe me as a good friend with an open house living situation.”

Simon Bull New Original Arrives in Chapel Hill

2008-05-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

Simon Bull's newest original Fanfare III arrived this week in Chapel Hill at Turning Point Gallery. A dramatic 24"x 24" represents another dimension of Simon's ever evolving body of work.

Also arriving is Simon Bull's latest limited edition release Living The Life is available in 18"x 24", 24"x 32" and 30"x 40", all gallery wrapped ready to hang without a frame or add a frame. See more at our website www.harmonyfineart.com.
or visit our studio .

Lasting Impressions - Absolutely

2008-05-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

Maeve Harris and Wayne Salge delighted quite a crowd last Friday night.

Wayne explained how he is able to create sculptures that express feeling by using shape, line and form rather than realistic depiction. Maeve explained her techniques in using chemical reactions as well as mechanical methods of extracting an image deep within multiple layers.

Taylor Stephenson was given a special graduation gift by her aunt in two Maeve Harris giclees on canvas which Maeve personalized on the back.

On Saturday Maeve demonstrated her techniques and enlisted the help of special assistants Lauren and Jason seen here.

And what a Lasting Impression (i.e. heirloom) for this Chapel Hill family

Before returning to Seattle, Maeve was treated to North Carolina pulled pork bbq at the Brighthorse Farm and Art Studio in Chatham County. She learned from equestrian Cindy McWilliams and Art Director Kim Greene how they also combined Maeve's passion for horses and art into numerous programs for children and adults.

Turning Point Gallery owner, Jerri Meldrum discussed some future riding prospects with Tara.

Lasting Impresssions

2008-04-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Turning Point Gallery’s “Lasting Impressions” show will elegantly blend Seattle, Washington-based painter Maeve Harris’ expressions of color and light with Johnstown, Colorado-based sculptor Wayne Salge’s focus on shape, line and form. The gallery, located at University Mall in Chapel Hill, will also host a reception for Harris and Salge May 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. during the 2ndFriday ArtWalk.

Maeve will also be demonstrating her painting techniques on Saturday May 10th 1-4 p.m. in front of the gallery.

Maeve Harris uses various inks and pigments to integrate traditional subject matter, such as horses or flowers, with contemporary styles and techniques. She focuses on the medium and process first, and from that, a concept surfaces.

Many of her paintings disclose her interest in natural and organic forms, and her lifelong passion for horses. Born in New Jersey in 1976, Maeve Harris became an equestrian at an early age and perfected the art of horse dressage. Saturday evening Maeve Harris is attending a private BBQ hosted by BrightHorse Farm & Art Studio.

Study abroad in Florence, Italy also influenced her life personally and artistically. Harris discusses her paintings on YouTube . Her work also appeared on the set of “Celebrity Apprentice.”

Wayne Salge was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He attended San Antonio College and La Villita School of Art. Originally a student of abstract painting, Salge switched to sculpture at the suggestion of a college professor. He worked as a television director, Army illustrator, advertising agency art director and freelance graphic designer following graduation, but remained devoted to sculpture.

Salge says his sculpture depicts a “not easy to label or describe” style. He applies the painting term of impressionism to his work, and often molds humans and animals, but says “sometimes the terminology ‘stylized,’ ‘modern’ or ‘contemporary’ is used. It falls somewhere between realism and abstraction.”

Visit here to view more work from Maeve Harris and Wayne Salge.

Ruffin Hobbs launches Spring Fever

2008-04-13T13:19:00.000-07:00

Ruffin Hobbs has been a featured artist at Turning Point Gallery in University Mall, Chapel Hill, NC for over 7 years. Ruffin and his wife live in a wonderful restored grist mill in Alamance County, North Carolina. It is in this setting that Ruffin has his large studio for creating masterpieces such as the 7000 pound stainless tigers at Princeton University, the giant mobile at the Durham Museum of Life and Sciences and a recent sculpture addition to UNC Chapel Hill.

Every year at Turning Point Gallery Ruffin unveils 10-15 new pieces as he did this last Friday night.
The three pieces shown here are the life size Poised, a delicately balanced mixed metal staibile and Phoenix on the right. The whole new collection can be seen at Ruffin's New Works Page.

Nan Jacobsohn wows the audience

2008-03-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

Nan Jacobsohn's Thirteen Horses show "kicked off" on March 14th with a private luncheon hosted by Jerri Meldrum inside Turning Point Gallery. Nan presented the work and told the stories along her journey to become a full time artist. Each horse sculpture was inspired by that journey.

Pat Nelson, owner of Carolina Cleaners, best described the whole event and the work as "amazing and very inspirational". Click here to see all of the Thirteen Horses.

Thirteen Horses - The Journey" is about my journey of self discovery; taking the leap of becoming a full-time artist after decades of working as an art educator and museum administrator. I have used horses in my art work to represent both life's journey and as a metaphorical representation of women in general. They embody for me great beauty and strength, qualities we as women, covet for ourselves. In "Thirteen Horses," I explore the range of emotions encountered on a quest for a new life and an artistic voice. The 13 horses speak for me. -Nan

Nancy Jacobsohn 2008 Show "Thirteen Horses"

2008-03-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Nan Jacobsohn’s “Thirteen Horses—The Journey”
Celebrates Women and Self Discovery

Artist’s Equine Sculptures Reveal Her Personal Turning Point

Turning Point Gallery in Chapel Hill, N.C. connects with community supporters of the Triangle’s growing equine industry March 14 when gallery owners Jerri and Garry Meldrum host a public reception from 6 to 9 p.m. featuring Tennessee artist Nan Jacobsohn at the 2ndFriday Artwalk. Turning Point Gallery will serve as the first venue for “Thirteen Horses—The Journey,” a show created by Jacobsohn, who is known for her hand-built clay horse sculptures.

Jacobsohn’s work celebrates equine qualities embraced by women. “Horses embody for me great beauty and strength, qualities we, as women, covet for ourselves,” she says. “In the ‘Thirteen Horses,’ I explore the range of emotions encountered on a quest for a new life and an artistic voice. The ‘Thirteen Horses’ speak for me.”

The show also represents a turning point in Jacobsohn’s life. “The ‘Thirteen Horses’ is about my journey of self discovery; taking the leap of becoming a full-time artist after decades of working as an art educator and museum administrator. I have used horses in my art work to represent both life’s journey and as a metaphorical representation of women in general,” she says.

“Thirteen Horses—The Journey” appropriately follows Festa Della Donna, or International Women’s Day, on March 8, which has been sponsored by the United Nations since 1975 but actually dates back to the early 20th Century when European and American women began campaigning for the right to vote, better pay and improved working conditions.

Turning Point Gallery’s Chapel Hill location is the perfect place to exhibit equine art. Since 1997, the number of small horse farms, horse boarding farms and horse owners in the Chapel Hill area has increased. These numbers are expected to continue rising as the region’s urban population grows, according to the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service. New state legislation authorizing a $500,000 equine industry census underscores the equine industry’s growth.

The attached image portrays Jacobsohn’s sculpture, “Or So They Say.” Visit www.harmonyfineart.com/id162.html to view more of Jacobsohn’s work and to learn more about “Thirteen Horses—The Journey.”

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About Turning Point Gallery
Turning Point Gallery is located in Chapel Hill’s University Mall at U.S. 15-501 and Estes Drive. www.harmonyfineart.com or call (919) 967-0402 for more information. Turning Point Gallery is also a founding sponsor and host of 2ndFriday Artwalk, a monthly event displaying a variety of artwork from participating galleries. Learn more at www.2ndfridayartwalk.com.

Simon Bull Celebrates Turning Point Gallery 7th Year

2007-10-27T05:08:00.000-07:00

Painter Simon Bull and author Lynda Schultz highlighted Turning Point Gallery's 7th year anniversary on October 20th. Lynda released her new book The Shortest Path Home Is Through The Heart, a loose autobiography about growing up in Durham, NC.

Simon painted a beautiful Smokey Mountain Fall landscape, a bouquet of flowers and individually requested images for the public.