Sunset River Marketplace art gallery in Calabash, N.C. will feature Oil Paintings By Ruth Cox from Feb. 4 – 28. On Wednesday, Feb. 11, the Myrtle Beach artist will offer a painting demonstration from 10 – 11 a.m. The public is welcome and there is no charge.
Ruth Cox, who teaches oil and acrylic painting at Sunset River Marketplace, has been honored by her peers many times over with awards, one-woman shows and acceptance into juried exhibitions. Her works have earned multiple first place awards at venues including Paint! Conway Paint-Out in South Carolina and North Carolina’s Paint-Out Kinston.
The exhibition will consist of more than 20 framed paintings including her acclaimed plein air pieces that were created outdoors at local landmarks including Vereen Gardens in Little River, S.C., Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, S.C. and area beaches. Also included in the show and sale will be a collection of small, unframed “demo” paintings from the prolific artist’s art classes.
About her work Cox says, “I try to capture special effects of light and atmosphere that are exciting or emotionally moving to me. I paint with oils (or acrylics) on canvas or panels, using large brushes and a palette knife to apply colors in connected shapes of light and shadow to set the composition. Then I develop these shapes further to indicate form and meaning, with variety in value, color, texture and edges. I stop short of realistic detail, using just enough to give an impression, allowing the viewer to fill in the rest. The effect is realistic with identifiable objects, without belaboring the detail work.”
Cox’s demonstration on Feb. 11 offers a rare opportunity to see an accomplished artist at work. Gallery owner Ginny Lassiter advises collectors and artists to arrive promptly at 10 a.m. to have a good view. Complimentary coffee, tea and treats will be on hand for gallery visitors.
Sunset River Marketplace is located at 10283 Beach Drive (Hwy. 179) in the historic fishing village of Calabash, N.C. just north of the state line. Gallery hours for winter (January through March) are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information about the exhibition, art classes, onsite framing or any other gallery events, call 910-575-5999 or visit the website: www.sunsetrivermarketplace.com. The gallery’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sunsetrivermarketplace) also lists special events, new artists and other happenings.