The John M. Crawford, Jr. Art Gallery presents “Tales of Transparency: An Artistic Retrospective.” The exhibition, showcasing the watercolor paintings by local artist John Duncan, opens on Thursday, September 19. Community members are invited to a reception in the gallery on Thursday, September 19 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. for an evening with the artist. The exhibition runs through Friday, October 25.
John’s medium of choice is watercolor, a form that captivates him with its vibrant, transparent colors and the spontaneous interaction between pigment and paper. His work reflects a deep appreciation for the unpredictable beauty that watercolor offers, making each piece a fresh and dynamic experience.
John shares the following about “Tales in Transparency: An Artistic Retrospective”:
This “play on words” describes my interest in the many and varied stories found in nature, from the human to the biosphere around us. I have pursued this artistic exploration since childhood through drawings and painting as a hobby. Before becoming professional, I was able to hone my craft through an occasional after-hours painting class and by studying the great masters of watercolor painting like Sargeant, Homer, and N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth. The transparent nature of representational painting appeals to me in its apparent honesty.
Expressing these stories specifically comes from my use of transparent watercolor paints on various papers. The interaction of those together provides a feeling of light and color and texture, which sometimes yield surprises that are a tale in themselves.
Learn more about the artist here. John’s unique and brilliant watercolor paintings are also on display at the Toe River Crafts Gallery in Celo, NC. The Toe River Crafts Gallery is an internationally recognized hub for art and craft, showcasing works from local and global artists. Celebrated for its vibrant collection, the gallery is a cornerstone of creative expression in the Appalachian region.
Gallery Hours are Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday by appointment only. To make an appointment, please contact Ms. Casey Arbor via email ([email protected]) or phone 828.254.6345 x 4037.