Drawing on Childhood: a new exhibition

The Carnegie Arts Center is presenting the exhibition, Childhood Classics: 100 Years of Original Illustration from the Art Kandy Collection through January 15, 2017, in the Ferrari Gallery.  To coincide with this exhibition, the Lobby Galleries will be featuring a themed, juried show titled Drawing on Childhood.

For most of us, our first encounter with art is through the magical world of children’s book illustration. In picture books and story books we learn more about our world as words and images are combined.  Our imaginations develop in childhood, and youthful experiences translate into the works of mature artists.

Drawing on Childhood is a juried, all media exhibition that seeks to explore the variety of ways childhood is reflected in art. Artists from throughout northern and central California were invited to submit work that takes inspiration from any aspect of childhood. Themes include memories of youth and childhood experiences, exploring the imagination and lives of children, as well as looking at play and other children’s activities.

Of the more than 100 entries received, jurors accepted 44 pieces. These represent a variety of media, including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, collage, photography, digital art, sculpture and ceramics. Many of the entries reflected the joys and pleasures of childhood, but there are a few that delve into some darker aspects of youthful experience. It is a great mix of ideas and styles – each piece uniquely reflects the artist’s own experiences and inspirations.

RECEPTION: The Carnegie will host a reception for the artists on Wednesday, October 19, from 5-7 p.m.

DATES OF EXHIBITION: October 19 – December 30, 2016

HOURS AND ADMISSION: The Carnegie is open to the public Wednesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.  Admission to the Lobby Gallery is free.

AWARDS:

Grand Prize to William Harris, Boy in the Gold Sweater, photograph        

Four Awards of Merit to

            Chelsea America, A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes, watercolor

            Iris Asai, Animals of a Different Color, oil

Gayle Knize, With Grandpa’s Help, acrylic

Andy Tolsma, The New Candle, photograph

Four Honorable Mentions $50

Pamela Ackles, Bedtime Story, ceramic    

            Anna Barber, Playtime at the Shore, digital photo-fusion

            Christine Obers, From my Father’s Journal, digital art

            Jane Zich, Into the Woods, mixed media

JURORS: Deborah Barr, Professor of Art, Modesto Junior College, and Lisa McDermott, Director, Carnegie Arts Center

Artists included in the exhibition