Local area artists will be displaying artwork influenced by the theme, "Full Circle," this Friday from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Cleveland WorkSpace in the Old Woolen Mill, 445 Church St. SE in Cleveland. The free evening will feature a full gallery of art as well as two dueling artists competing for attendee's favor.
The gallery openings at Cleveland WorkSpace are held on the second Fridays of each month. Paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs have been featured in past shows, as well as performance art and quilts.
“Full Circle” is the theme for September's Open Studio Night, which will showcase work from nearly a dozen local artists and two dueling artists.
“Open Studio Night brings artists and patrons together in a unique gallery setting right here in Cleveland," said Carie Varner, who will be "dueling" against Claudia Hoffer during the Open Studio Night. "I can't wait to make art in front of everyone at the gallery. This kind of event has never been done here."
Ms. Varner and Ms. Hoffer, both member artists at the WorkSpace, will each be creating art live from the same still life set up on a table between them. People who attend the event will be able to vote for the artist whose work they like best. The table will be filled with items that match the "Full Circle" theme, which means there will be baseballs and other round objects.
"Spheres are notoriously challenging for artists," Ms. Varner added with excitement. "We are going to have a lot of fun battling it out."
Artwork on display will be from artists including Ms. Varner and Ms. Hoffer, as well as fellow Cleveland WorkSpace member Jackie Cory. In addition, there will be artwork from Christopher Falacho, M.B. Hetzel, Riqi Martinez, Luciana Miles, and Erica Stewart. Glass art from Kim Currin of Glassworks, also located at the Old Woolen Mill, will be displayed as well.
Cleveland WorkSpace has held seven Open Studio Nights this year, including shows focusing on high school and university student work. More than 75 people attended the “Cleveland” themed Open Studio Night last month, and organizers hope the program continues to grow.