The Center for the Arts is currently featuring an exhibit that displays the Murfreesboro/Rutherford Art League artists’ works. The exhibit is scheduled to run through next month and an artists’ reception will be held on Oct. 11, from 5 – 7 p.m., according to Jennifer Richardson, Education and Outreach Coordinator for the center.
The Art League is comprised of members from the Murfreesboro area as well as surrounding counties. It was founded by a local group of artists and chartered in 1966.
Clarice Nelson is one of the founding members and is still active in the League.
“We started with only 13 members and now we have over 100,” recalls Nelson as she clearly remembers the idea for the League originating in the spring of 1965. She tells me her love for art stems as far back as she can recollect.
According to Virginia Clark, the Outreach Chairperson for the Murfreesboro Art League, “the League includes artists that vary in experience level, age, and point-of-view, but we all share a love for art.”
The exhibit features a variety of art mediums and a variety of subjects. One of the most creative displays is a unique ink installation done on a glass dimensional box. While it is hard to explain, it is fascinating to see.
The artist who creates these ink-on-glass pieces, Claire Justine Smith, says she does not really know where the idea originated. As a fairly new area resident and member of the Art League, Smith has had her art displayed from San Antonio to Spain and says she draws inspirations from light and stars.
“The Art League is helpful because others may see something that you might not,” explains Smith about the importance of the League and insightful critiques they offer each other.
Clark says the League meets for classes the first three Mondays of every month and the fourth is reserved for business meetings.
“Membership is available to anyone that is interested in art and willing to pay the $25 yearly fee,” Clark mentions.
Jack Freeman, another member whose work is featured in the exhibit adds, “The Art League is something I enjoy immensely and a positive way to gain feedback.”
Freeman’s artwork is unique and interesting as he works with and combines multiple mediums.
Mary Veazie, member of the Art League for five years says the League “gives emerging artists an opportunity to exhibit their work.”
Joyce Wachtel, a one-year member, is a retired teacher who says she took a lot of art classes in college and has renewed her interest in art through the League. Her art, like so many others’ in the exhibit, is impressive.
Marie Evans Miller, League member and member of the City Hall Art Committee, loves the opportunity each week to have different medium instruction.
“Working with Clarice Nelson is a real inspiration,” Miller says about the founding member.
Viewing the Art League’s art at the Center for the Arts is free to the public, as is the Oct. 11 artist reception. Free refreshments will be served and most of the artists will be on hand to discuss their works.
For more information on the exhibit or joining the Murfreesboro Rutherford Art League, visit boroarts.org or mral.net.
