What's New for 2008?

What's new in 2008?  Well let me tell ya.....we're going to try to some new stuff.  First, can I see a raise of hands from those of you who think our monthly board meetings are BORING!  My hand is raised.  I would like to hold board meetings privately starting in 2008.  But, the monthly meeting is going to be an entirely new format.  I'd like to see these meetings be social/educational events.  We'll start having artist of the month competitions, possibly some art demonstrations, critiques and maybe even visit a few local galleries/studios.  And, if you bring the desert, I'll bring the coffee.  Let's have some fun.

We have a committee working on a very special fundraiser during the Spotlight Exhibition.  It will be formal and fun.  I always look forward to the updates from the planning committee.

I'm pretty certain the Box Show Fundraiser will be replaced with something new.  Janet has some great ideas bouncing around in her head.

We're going to start exhibiting artwork at the Image Gallery starting in January.

We've planned a very special exhibition at Hidden Lake Gardens this coming Spring.  HLG is taking care of everything....advertisements, mailings, and reception.  All we have to do is supply the art.  I'm really looking forward to this event.

And, don't forget the annual Art-a-licious Festival.  The 2008 festival will be bigger and better.  We perked a lot of interest with this event.  It's a BIG event that takes a lot of hard work and time to plan and prepare for.  If you are interested in helping out please contact Pi Benio at pbenio@adrian.edu

We're also going to try something that I'm pretty sure has never been done before.  We're planning an exhibition of Adrian College Students AND Siena Heights University students.  We're calling it the College Town Show.

As you can see we've got some exciting events on the horizon.  I'm pretty excited about 2008.  I think you're going to like what we have in store for you.

Gregg Perez

LCVA President 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate through this blog?

I know the address isn't very catchy, but it's here to stay or at least until we grow out of it.  A lot of you Google the LCVA to find this site, which is OK but it doesn't always take you to the "home" page.  Here's a tip......If you click on the big text at the top of the page it will always take you to the "home" page where you will find the latest blog entries.  So if you get lost....just click on the big text at the top.

Where can I get membership information?

We have pamphlets at the gallery or you can click on "Membership Info" under the category "Exhibitions and Other Important Stuff".

Is the gallery moving or what?

That's a good question that gets asked a lot.  Here's an honest answer.  We're a non-profit organization that operates on a very small budget.  And, we are getting a SWEET deal on rent at our current location.  But as everyone knows the location isn't exactly prime territory.  So, we're always looking for new "opportunities" for alternative exhibition locations.  We have had some really cool prospects recently.  Some of them didn't pan out.  Some are still promising.  I hesitate to give out any more information until prospects are solidified.  Until then, lets just call them really cool prospects.  If we do move, we plan on keeping the gallery to convert it to studio space or workshop space.  We currently have members who are "in" with the City of Adrian downtown development squad.  We're in a good position to jump on good prospects.  It just may take some time.  

Why should I become a member?

Everyone has different reasons for becoming a member.  Personally I joined to learn more about how the art world functions.  The truth is there are plenty of exhibition opportunities for artists in Lenawee County.  And, there are many artists in Lenawee County who take advantage of those opportunities.  We have great local artists who do not exhibit locally because very few people perceive Lenawee County as an art community.  Some people say that reality is perception.  Changing this perception takes a lot of effort and guts.  The purpose of the LCVA is to grow the art community and to change this perception.  As a group of artists we can change how people feel about Lenawee County easier than if artists tried it alone.  My favorite comment said to me during the Art-a-licious festival was, "gee, I never realized we had such wonderful local artists."  So, if your a novice artist the LCVA can teach you all about exhibiting your work.  If you're a working artist, the LCVA can help you transition into a professional career.  And, if you're a professional artist...the LCVA needs you.  Our professional artist members are the backbone of the organization.  Working with other professionals is certainly a great way to establish a network within the artist community.   

Gregg Perez,

LCVA President       

 

January News

During the month of January....

Gerry Church, Janet Graham and Gregg Perez will be exhibiting work at the Image Gallery.

The LCVA gallery will be closed for some minor remodeling.

The LCVA will be exhibiting work at the Michigan Welcome Center.

Everyone should be getting ready for the New Work Exhibition and the Hidden Lake Gardens Exhibition.  See 2008 calendar of exhibitions.  

Michigan Welcome Center

The LCVA is looking for artists interested in displaying one or two pieces of 2D art for a display case at the Michigan Welcome Center located on US 23 just north of the US 223 exit.  The work will be on display for the months of January and February.  There are size restrictions so if you are interested please send the following information to Janet Graham as soon as possible....

Medium, width, height and depth of work.

Some small 3d work would be acceptable if it is no larger than 8-10" in depth.

Send inquiries to Janet Graham at grahams4@tc3net.com 

Board Meeting Cancelled

Due to the ice advisory the Board meeting scheduled for tonight has been rescheduled for Tuesday, December 18 @ 7:00 pm.

2009 Membership Information

Our Purpose:

Organized in 1998, the purpose of the Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts is to promote the creation, display and appreciation of the visual arts in Lenawee County. Our diverse membership base includes professional artists, vocational artists, patrons of the arts and those who simply appreciate art.

The LCVA Gallery has approximately 1000 square feet of space and exhibits several shows per year. All exhibitions are free and open to the public. The LCVA also offers classes, workshops and community events.

Join the LCVA and receive discounts on classes, invitations to exhibitions, a newsletter, and the satisfaction of helping us promote the visual arts in Lenawee County.

Membership:

Lifetime Exhibiting Member, $500

You and family members may show work in all member exhibitions. You will receive invitations to all LCVA functions, a lifetime subscription to the newsletter, and discounts on LCVA-sponsored workshops.

Lifetime Patron, $500

You and family members receive invitations to all LCVA functions, a lifetime subscription to the newsletter, and discounts on LCVA-sponsored workshops.

Exhibiting Member, $35

Exhibiting Family, $50

Exhibiting members/families may show work in all member exhibitions throughout the year. You will receive invitations to all LCVA functions, an annual subscription to the newsletter, and discounts on LCVA-sponsored workshops.

Senior Exhibiting Member (65 and older), $30

Senior Exhibiting Couple, $40

Same as Exhibiting Member except at a discounted rate.

Supporting Member, $25

You will receive invitations to all LCVA functions.

Exhibiting Student Member, $15*

Students enrolled in area colleges will receive all the privileges of Exhibiting Members.

*Students may also receive a free membership by agreeing to gallery sit once per month.

Join Today!

New members, non-lifetime membership fees are prorated on a quarterly basis.

The LCVA membership year corresponds to the calendar year (with all memberships expiring December 31).

Please send membership information (name, address, city, state, zip, phone number, email address and primary media) and check (payable to Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts) to:

Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts

112 West Maumee Street

Adrian, MI 49221

phone: 517-265-4403

Gallery Hours:

Thursdays, 4-8pm

Fridays, 10am - 2pm, 4pm-8pm

Saturdays, Noon-4pm

President: Gregg Perez, gandkperez@tc3net.com

Vice President: Janet Graham, grahams4@tc3net.com

Treasurer: Mike Jacobitz

Secretary: Jenna Bush, jbush28@verizon.net

Holiday Salon Exhibition 2007

The Holiday Salon is fast approaching - hopefully you've all been busy in your workshops/studios! The drop off date for work will be Tuesday, November 6th from 4-7 pm. If you can't make it, please contact me to arrange another time. If you would like to drop off your work before November 6th please place work in the back hallway or behind the desk.

Installation will be on Wednesday, 11/7 from 5-9 pm. Help is always appreciated. We will also have flyers available during the drop off time for you to pick up and distribute to help advertise the show.You may bring as many pieces as you'd like but they might not all be up right away - we will put up additional pieces as things sell.

We voted in the 20% commission at our last meeting so please price your work accordingly. 2-D pieces must have a wire for hanging. We have plenty of pedestals and possibly shelving for 3-D pieces. We will also have a place for unframed work to be displayed.

We will be having 2 events during the show to help boost sales:The Downtown Merchants Holiday Open House will be Friday, November 9th (opening day of the exhibit) from 4-9 pm. Gregg Perez will be demonstrating linoleum cut printing that evening (with a workshop to follow 11/17). We'll be serving holiday cookies and punch.Winterfest will be on Saturday, December 1st from 10-4 pm. We will be having free children's art activities and cookies that day. If you would like to get involved in either of these events by donating cookies or helping with children's art activities, please contact me. Gallery sitters are always needed as well. Check the LCVA blog to see the current sitting schedule and either email me or call me to sign up. Please call with any question or concerns. Thanks for your help in making this a great Holiday Salon!

Janet Graham
LCVA Gallery Director
Grahams4@tc3net.com

LCVA at the Boulevard Market

Be sure to stop at the Boulevard Market for a little cheese and a side of art! Jill shaffer, Marjorie Castle, Janet Graham, Gerry Church, Kimberly Myers-Pinkel, Mary Gautz and Gregg Perez are displaying work there until October 16th. The Boulevard Market is located on the corner of East Chicago Boulevard and Evans Street in Tecumseh, MI.

LCVA does Hidden Lake Gardens

We've arranged for a great opportunity for LCVA Artists!

We have set up two dates this fall for artists to visit Hidden Lake Gardens and paint/photograph/draw/get inspired. Then you'll have approximately 2 months to finish/frame/etc. your creations on you own.

In January, we will be displaying our work at Hidden Lake Gardens. We haven't determined the exact dates yet but we should know within the next few weeks.

The two working dates are Saturday, October 20th and Saturday, November 3rd. We will be working from 9 am until whenever you're done (they close at dusk). You may come either day or both days.

Please contact Janet Graham at grahams4@tc3net.com to reserve your spot - or if you have any questions. We need to let them know the artist's names 3 days in advance of each date for us to get free admission. Hope to see you there!

Impression, Composition and Improvisation by Carlos Tobar

The LCVA presents:

Impressions, Composition, Improvisation by Carlos Tobar

October 4th - November 3rd, 2007

Local treasure Carlos Tobar offers a glimpse into reality as he sees it. A native of Ecuador and self taught artist, Mr. Tobar invites us into his past and present through vibrancy of color and form.

Join us on October 6th, from 5-8pm for our wine and cheese reception with the artist.

Artists reception sponsored by....The HathawayHouse

Gallery Hours:

Thursday 4-8pm

Friday 10-2pm, 4-8pm

Saturday 12-4pm

Art, art, and more art....You gotta love it!

The Bank of Lenawee's "Lenawee Live" Exhibition was installed today and once again there was a tremendous turnout of Lenawee County artists who submitted work. If anyone happens to see Pi Benio please thank her for the exhausting work she does to make this show happen. The Lenawee Live awards presentation will be held this Friday, September 14, 2007 at 6 pm.

Art-A-Licious: Get ready for an exciting art festival this weekend in downtown Adrian. The event includes, art demonstrations, Lost Arts, downtown merchant sales, Elenor Brown Dance Center Dancers, Croswell singers from "Urinetown", River Raisin Ragtime Revue, Drew Carter Band, Skate Board Design, Drum Line Competition, Adrian High Jazz Band & Lady Blues Choir, Encore Studio Dancers, Saline Big Band and the LCVA's Box Show. Art-A-Licious is this Friday, September 14th, noon-8PM and Saturday, September 15th, 10AM - 8PM.

LCVA Box Show: We began accepting boxes this past Thursday and so far we have 38 entries. We will continue to accept entries during regular gallery hours until the Final Auction Bid Party on Saturday, September 29th, 5-8PM. Duane Bastian will be this years Juror. He will also select the 2008 Spotlight Exhibition artists from entry packets which are due September 29th at 5PM.

The Boulevard Market: A call for art was sent out this past week for 2D and 3D work to be installed at the Boulevard Market in Tecumseh during their "Art Affair" week. Anyone interested in displaying their work should contact Gregg Perez at gandkperez@tc3net.com . (Edit: Work will be collected after the 16th and installed on the 19th. The work will be on display from September 19th through October 16th).

Spotlight Show Prospectus 2008

The Spotlight exhibition 2008
The Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts invites its members with exhibiting status to apply for the 2008 LCVA Spotlight Exhibition. Two or three artists will be selected by the Box Show juror, Duane Bastian. Select artists will exhibit multiple works at the LCVA Gallery May 15 - June 14, 2008. Artists not selected will exhibit their work January 5 - February 2, 2008.

Eligibility
Participation is open to all LCVA Exhibiting Members (new and current). Entries must be original works of art or fine craft. Works produced from kits, published plans, or commercially reproduced or giclee prints will not be accepted.

Entry

To apply, artists must submit materials for the juror's review by taking them to the LCVA Gallery no later than 4 PM on Saturday, September 29, 2007. Packets should be labeled with the artist's name and "Spotlight Exhibition". Duane Bastian, local artist and retired Art Education Professor, will select artists to be included in the LCVA Spotlight Exhibition from these materials. Packets must include:

-10-20 works, via slide representation or digital images. (Please make sure your digital files open on the LCVA computer when you drop off your packet.)
-A script giving titles, sizes, and media for the slides or digital files
-An exhibition list/resume
-A brief artist's statement that relates to the images submitted
-A check for annual exhibiting membership for those who are not currently members at this level.

Slides

Slides must be 2"x2" mount size, no glass mounts. Artwork consisting of multiple panels, diptychs, or series meant to be viewed as one unit must be on one slide. Detail slides are welcomed. Each slide must be labeled clearly with name of artist and title. Indicated top of slide with an arrow on the correct viewing side of the slide. Slides may be picked up at the Gallery after juror selections have been made.

Digital Entries

Digital entries may be submitted on a CD and dropped off at the LCVA Gallery. Images must be in .tif or .jpg format and include name and title. CD's may be picked up at the LCVA Gallery after juror selections have been made.

Exhibition Agreement

Artists selected for the Spotlight Show will be responsible for gallery preparation, installation, tags, and removal. Work submitted for the selection process are used to determine the best candidates for the show and assures the juror that the artist has a sizable body of quality work and will continue to produce such. The work submitted via slides or digital is not required to be displayed in the 2008 Spotlight Exhibition. The submission of a work of art to this exhibition shall be understood to constitute agreement on the part of the artist with all conditions set forth in this Prospectus. Submission of work constitutes permission to photograph it for publicity purposes and documentation for permanent records. The LCVA reserves the right to refuse any entry and to withdraw any work from the exhibition by Board majority vote.

Art-a-licious Story in Manchester paper

http://www.manchesterenterprise.com/stories/071907/loc_20070719004.shtml

Botanically Inspired Exhibition

The LCVA Gallery presents:

Botanically Inspired

July 27-August 25

Reception and Artists Talk - Saturday, August 25, 5-7 pm.

Artists:
Duane Bastian, Ceramics
Kim Ensch, Paintings
Martha Keller, Paintings
Ann Tubbs, Ceramic Vessels
Nora Venturelli, Paintings
Barb Yerace, Glass & Mixed Media

Sponsors:
Barrett's Showplace Gardens
Beaubien Landscape
Shaffer Nursery
Underwood's Nursery

Gallery Hours:
Thursday, 4-8 pm
Friday, 10 am - 2 pm
Friday, 4-8pm
Saturday, noon-4pm

Box Show Workshops

The Box Show is nearly here, and once again you are thinking what are you going to do? Want some fresh perspective, access to more equipment, new ideas from other artists, commeraderie of other LCVA members? Well, we have just the thing......two 3 hour make your box workshops. Come to one or both. You only need to bring some media you would like to work in and stuff from your studio that has hung around so everytime you look at it you think, there is something that won't allow you to throw it out, that it has a purpose. This could be parts of old, unresolved pieces, found objects, etc I have tons of metal, wood, and paper boxes for you to use, lots of found objects, a welder, clay, wood, you name it!

When: Saturday Aug 11 noon-3pm and/or Sunday Aug 26 9:30-12:30

Where: Art Dept, Adrian College, 2nd floor Mahan Hall on Williams St

Questions: Contact Pi Benio @ 263-9548 or pbenio@adrian.edu

You will complete at least one box for the auction and have the joy of making art with others from the LCVA

2008 Exhibition Calendar

The Candlelight Exhibition (at the Image Gallery)
Members Exhibition
January 15 - February 15

Location:  The Image Gallery located in downtown Adrian.

Artists:  Janet Graham, Gerry Church and Gregg Perez

This show was created primarily for those members who submitted slides for the Spotlight Exhibition but were not selected. We want to thank them for their participation and reward them with a show of their own.

Visual Art Educators, K-8 (LCVA Gallery)
February 17 - March 1

Lenawee County Student Exhibition grades k-8.

Hidden Lake Gardens Exhibition (Hidden Lake Gardens Visitor Center)

February 22 - April 6

Sponsored by Hidden Lake Gardens

Artist Reception March 15th, 1-3pm

High School Exhibition (LCVA Gallery)

Sposonored by the Stubnitz Foundation

March 6 - April 5

New Work (LCVA Gallery)
Member Exhibition
April 10 - May 10 

This exhibition displays the work of LCVA members. It is what the name states. It is an exhibition of new work by LCVA exhibiting members. The New Work Exhibition encompasses all medias both two dimensional and three dimensional. The LCVA currently has approximately 50 exhibiting artists.

Spotlight Exhibition and Gala (LCVA Gallery)
May 15 - June 14

This exhibitions displays the work of LCVA members. The Spotlight Exhibition highlights the LCVA's best artists. Exhibiting members (new and old) are asked to submit slides or digital media by September 29, 2007. The Box Show juror will select the Spotlight Exhibition participants.

Lenawee Collaboration (LCVA Gallery)
Sponsored by the Stephen L. Hickman Family
June 19 - July 19

Nature Inspired (LCVA Gallery)

July 24 - August 23

The Post Card Show (LCVA Gallery)
Sept 4 - Sept 27

This show is under construction at the moment.  More information to come in the following weeks.

Hidden Lake Gardens Fall Show (@ Hidden Lake Gardens)

Sept. 27 - Dec. 10

 

Opening, Saturday, September 27th

Dessert Reception, Saturday, October 18th from 1-3 pm 

Closing, Wednesday, December 10th, 4:30 pm is when I will take the show down.

 

The College Town Show (LCVA Gallery)
October 4 - Novemeber 1

This is a new show featuring the work of Adrian College AND Siena Heights University students.

Holiday Salon (LCVA Gallery)
November 13 - December 20

This exhibition features the work of LCVA members. The Holiday Salon Show celebrates the holiday season by providing works of art for sale. There is no limit to the number of pieces submitted and works of art can be either original work or reproductions. Works of art are hung wherever there is space available in the gallery. The objective is to fill the gallery from floor to ceiling with art!

July 2007 Board Meeting Notes

Lenawee Live: The Lenawee Live Exhibition at the Bank of Lenawee is in the works. LCVA artists do not pay an entry fee and may reserve a tent during Artilicious. As soon as the prospectus is complete we will let everyone know. Work will be installed at the Bank on September 9th and will be taken down the following Sunday, September 16th.

2008 Calendar: The 2008 calendar was passed around and approved by the Board, with the exception of the names. The Show names are not solid and may be changed at a later date.

An idea was brought forward to have a "rummage sale" where all proceeds go to the LCVA. If anyone is interested in seeing this idea through to fruition in 2008 please let me know.

Artists of All Ages Exhibition

The Lenawee Artists of All Ages Exhibtion will be at the LCVA Gallery June 21 - July 21 and is sponsored by The Stephen L. Hickman Family

The exhibition features work by Adrian College/YMCA Youth Art Program participants and responses by LCVA Artists celebrating how creativity and visual at unite all ages and make us a community.

Gallery Hours:
Thursday, 4-8pm
Friday, 10am-2pm and 4-8pm
Saturday, noon-4pm

Artists and Students: Kimberly Myers-Pinkel & Brooke Mostowy, Catherine Royer/Marjorie Castle & Noelle Drews, Janet Graham & Hannah Barr, Mike Barker & Crosby Slupe, Cornelia Wende & Renee Armstrong, Juliana Clendenin & Seth Reynolds, Carlos Tobar & Joel Clark, Elijah Van Benschoten & India Pinkel, Pat Deere & Kyle Stiver, Carol VandenBoss & Emily Bauer, Christine Marsh & Olivia Wiese, Dennis Swartzlander & Zak Eberle, Gregg Perez & Riley Perez, Kathie Duckworth & Leah Wathen, Kris Schmidt & Mercades Emerson, Susie Powell & Durand Pape, Andy Melms & Issac Stiver, Anne Flora & Grace Rummler

Tuesday, June 12 Meeting Highlights

1. There is a closing reception for the Spotlight Exhibition this Friday, June 15, 5-8pm.
2. The Spotlight Show ends Saturday, June 16, 5-8 pm.
3. Artists of all Ages drop off times are
Saturday, June 16, noon-4, Gregg Perez sitting
Sunday, June 17, noon-4, Wendy Drabek sitting
Monday, June 18, 4-8pm, Pi Benio and Gregg Perez sitting
Tuesday, June 19, 4-8pm, Pat Cooper sitting
4. Artists of all Ages Install will be Wednesday, June 20th, 5-?
5. Artists of all Ages Opening Reception is Thursday, June 21st, 5-8pm
6. Long Term Goal: The LCVA's goal in the next 1-2 years is to move the gallery to a location where we would not pay rent, for example a bank or a library. The achievement of this plan would allow us to sublease the existing gallery and turn it into studio space. It would also eliminate the need for gallery sitting. The cost savings from not having to pay rent would allow us to hire a full time gallery director.
7. Planting art seeds downtown: By the next board meeting, obtain a minimum of four business owners in Lenawee County that would allow us to hang art in their place of business. The goal is to increase exhibiting opportunities for artists, and promote the LCVA. Artists would install all work themselves.
8. Gallery Sitting: Janet will be calling all members to see when they can gallery sit. If you would like to volunteer for gallery sitting please contact Janet Graham grahams4@tc3net.com or Gregg Perez gandkperez@tc3net.com . A gallery sitting schedule can be found under the links section of this page.
9. Next Years Calendar: I'm meeting with Pi this Saturday to hash out the calendar for 2008. We will present it to the board in July for approval. If you have any ideas or suggestion please email me at gandkperez@tc3net.com

Art Across the Ages

Check out the Daily Telegram today, Sunday, June 10th for a really nice article on the Artists of All Ages Exhibition. Daily Telegram reporter Phil Johnson wrote some really nice things about the show and the artists. Lad Strayer also has some great photos of artists at work. Thanks Phil and Lad. If you happen to see Pi Benio or Kris Schmidt please give them a big thanks as well. They both do a TON of work to help turn ideas into reality. Last but not least a BIG thank you goes out to the generous support from the Stephen L. Hickman family.

There will be an opening reception for the Artists of All Ages Exhibition on Thursday, June 21st, 2007, 5-8pm. The show runs from June 21st to July 21st. Gallery hours are Thursdays, 4-8pm, Fridays 10-2pm and 4-8pm, and Saturdays noon-4pm. For more information please call the gallery during gallery hours at 265-4403 or email me at gandkperez@tc3net.com

Clay Leonard featured in Clay Times Magazine

LCVA artist Clay Leonard is featured in the latest issue of Clay Times Magazine, Volume 13 No. 3, May/June 2007. "Pedestal Bowls and Tray" Thrown and altered porcelain assembled tray, multiple matte glazes, fired to cone 10 in reduction. This piece and others can be seen at the LCVA Gallery. Clay is also a featured artist in the current Spotlight Exhibition.

Attention Artists All Ages Participants

Take one of your young artists works that you were paired with and make a work of your own in response. You can use a partial image, the same of different media, or anything that is somewhat evocative of the work. Bring your completed work ready to hang and the young artists (You will notice it is ready to hang, please take care to make sure it remains so) to the LCVA by June 15 for hanging. The opening reception is Thursday June 21, 5-8pm. I hope you can come celebrate how creativity and visual art unities us all and thank our sponsors, the Stephen L. Hickman family. The exhibition continues through July 21. Any questions please contact Pi at 263-9548 or pbenio@adrian.edu

Lenawee Live 2007 & ArtALicious

The Lenawee Live Exhibition sponsored by the Bank of Lenawee and hung at the downtown office will take place September 10-15 ,2007 with a reception and awards at 6pm Friday the 15th. It will be juried for prizes by Mary Fortuna, Gallery Director at Paint Creek Center for the Arts in Rochester. Artists can submit up to 3 works in any media. Submission for LCVA members is free. This year the exhibit will be part of ArtALicious, a two-day arts festival, Friday Sept 15 and Saturday Sept 16 in downtown Adrian that will present both visual and performing arts. The LCVA will be sponsoring artists demonstrations and exhibits in tents in an art fair context. The demonstrations will continue throughout both days. If you are interested in demonstrating contact Pi (263-9548 or pbenio@adrian.edu ) before mid June. For those not wishing to demonstrate tents will be available to teams of two LCVA members at no cost to display and sell your works. Other organizations involved in Artilicious are the River Raisin Ragtime Review, Adrian Symphony, the Adrian Downtown Development Authority, the Croswell Opera House, the Adrian Public Library, The Saline Big Band, and others.

May Board Meeting Highlights

Jenna will be sending out official minutes. These notes are just the highlights.

• Spotlight Exhibition- Gallery was prepped and painted after the meeting. Catherine and the artists are installing their show. The Spotlight Exhibition starts Thursday, May 10th. For more information about the show click here.
• Lenawee Artists of All Ages Exhibition- The kid's art is available for pick up at the Gallery by the artists. Pi will be contacting all the artists to make sure everyone will be ready by the start of the exhibition. Janet Graham is almost done designing the card. This show is sponsored by the Stephen L. Hickman Family Foundation.
• Botanical Show- There will be no raffle for this show....maybe next year.
• Box Show- Kimberly will be contacting some businesses to see if we can get a sponsor. We also need a juror. We set up two dates for workshops at Adrian College to make boxes. Those days will be July 22nd and August 11th. More information will be provided by Jenna. REMEMBER...this show is only 2 weeks long, so boxes must be ready by the start of the show. It starts Sept. 6th.
• Gallery Future- We are still researching moving the gallery but it a SLOW process. We are still moving forward with this goal.
• Lenawee Live- We are waiting for an approved prospectus before we can move forward. More information will be provided soon!
• Gallery Sitting Teams- Now that Bethany Camarati's internship is over we are going back to gallery sitting teams. I schedule Thursday nights. Kimberly schedules Friday mornings. Pi schedules Friday nights. Saturday team leader is still under discussion.
• Sponsorships- Kris Schmidt is doing a great job at finding sponsors. She was responsible for securing the Stephen L. Hickman Family Foundation sponsorship for the Lenawee All Ages Exhibition. She also has helped out with three sponsors for the Botanical Show. They are Shaffer's Nursery, Beaubien's and Barretts. Thank you Kris.
• Circle of Art- For information on the Circle of Art auction at the Saline Picture Frame Company click here.
• Reception help- Check out the dates for any of the upcoming receptions and contact Marjorie to help her out with food and or labor. Her email address is marjoriecastle@verizon.net

Press Release "Spotlight Exhibition"

Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts' first Spotlight Exhibition, featuring Sarah Miller, James Freeman, and Clay Leonard, opens Thursday, May 10, in LCVA Gallery, 112 W. Maumee in downtown Adrian. Exhibiting members of LCVA applied for the show by submitting images of their work, resumes, and artist statements to guest curator, Peggy Grant. Ms. Grant is the director of 20 North Gallery in Toledo.

Two receptions for the public will be held, on Friday, May 18, and on Friday, June 15. Both receptions are scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m., with the artists' talk at 6:30 p.m. The show closes on Saturday, June 16.

Gallery hours are Thursday, 4 - 8 p.m.;
Friday, 10 - 2 and 4 - 8 p.m.;
and Saturday, noon - 4 p.m.

Ms. Miller holds a master of fine arts degree from Bowling Green State University and is a new resident of Adrian. She is a self-employed visual artist, and in 2006-2007, was on faculty at Adrian College, Siena Heights University, and the University of Michigan. Ms. Miller will exhibit mixed media pop-culture portraits of famous artists and athletes. Mr. Leonard graduated from Adrian College with a bachelor of fine arts in 2006. He worked as a teaching assistant in the ceramics program at Adrian College during the 2006-2007 school year and will begin a graduate assistantship in the master of fine arts degree program at Bowling Green State University in the fall. Mr. Leonard specializes in hand thrown, functional pottery. Mr. Freeman exhibits widely in ceramics and wood, recently winning Best of Show in the Riverside Art Center's wood art competition. His work typically references functional and often historical ceramic vessel forms, though he views it as primarily sculptural. He resides in Manitou Beach. Both Freeman and Leonard do extensive work in glaze development.

Artists interested in submitting work for next spring's Spotlight Exhibition may drop off their application packets in the gallery before September 29. A current exhibiting membership is required; residence in Lenawee County is not required for a membership. For details or a membership brochure, stop by or call the gallery at 517/265-4403.

Freeman at Pentamere Winery

The Pentamere Winery in Tecumseh is displaying James Freeman pottery from May 7 through June 2. It is a different type of work than what will be at the LCVA gallery. The reception is Sunday, 5/13, from 1:00 through 4:00. Their address is 131 E Chicago Blvd (M-50), north side of the street, east of Evans Street. Please stop in and show your support for local artist James Freeman. Also, a big thanks goes out to Pentamere Winery for providing exhibiting opportunities for local artists.

Spotlight Exhibition 2007

Get ready for the LCVA's first annual Spotlight Exhibition. The Spotlight Exhibition 2007 artists include Clay Leonard, Sarah Miller, James Freeman. These artists were selected by the 2006 Box Show juror, Peggy Grant, director of Toledo's 20 North Gallery. For more information on how you can enter this show click here to read last years prospectus.

Dates: 5/10 to 6/16

Opening reception, Friday, May 18, 5 - 8 p.m. Artists' talks begin 6:30 p.m.
Closing reception Friday, June 15, 5 - 8 p.m. Artists' talks begin 6:30 p.m.

Gallery Hours: Thur., 4-8 p.m.; Fri. 10 - 2 and 4 to 8 p.m. Sat. 12 - 4

Gallery phone: 517-265-4403

Lenawee High School Exhibition

Thanks to the generous support from the Stubnitz Foundation the Lenawee Council for the Visual Arts Presents the annual High School Art Show. The show will be juried by Cyndi Koppleman, Saline High School Art Department Chairperson. This show runs from April 19th - May 5th, 2007.

The reception will be held Sunday, April 22nd from 1-3 pm.

The LCVA Gallery is located at 112 W. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian, MI.

Gallery Hours:
Thursday, 4-8 pm
Friday 10-2 pm & 4-8 pm
Saturday, noon-4 pm

Member Exhibition, James Freeman

LCVA Member James Freeman is currently exhibiting his work at the Parkwood Gallery in Toledo, OH.

Parkwood Gallery

1838 Parkwood Ave, Suite 120

Toledo, OH 43604

This Exhibition runs from April 2 - may 4th, 2007.

April News 2007

The Lenawee High School Exhibition begins this Thursday, April 19th. Installation will be this Tuesday evening, April 17th. Please contact Kimberly if you would like to help at kmpinkel@yahoo.com

Check out the gallery sitting schedule and email gandkperez@tc3net.com if you would like to volunteer to gallery sit.

Catherine has been working with a student designer on an updated membership brochure, Spotlight Show card, Botanical Show Card, Box Show card, and Holiday show card. Janet Graham and I are working on the Lenawee Artists of all Ages Show card. Pi prepared a digital cd with all Lenawee show information for us to use on the card and advertisements.

Anyone interested in participating in the Saline Circle of Art fundraiser should visit their website at www.salinepictureframe.com . Remember the deadline for art dropoff is May 1st. All proceeds go to the Food Gatherers of Ann Arbor.

Dont forget about the Box Show this fall. We're trying to organize some collaborations on some large scale sculptural pieces. Contact gandkperez@tc3net.com if you're interested or have ideas for a collaboration.

I will be posting more information as it trickles in so stayed tuned =)

Flatlanders Exhibition

Long time LCVA member Cathie Royer is exhibiting her work at Flatlanders Art Gallery in Blissfield, Michigan. Gallery hours are Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4. Also exhibiting at Flatlanders are Jim Cogswell and Kevin Schroeder. For more information visit www.flatlandersculpture.com

The New Work Exhibition 2007

The New Work Exhibition is one of my favorite shows. Like most people we've been couped up in our warm houses trying to stay out of the bitter cold. It's a good time for many of our members to create work due to the lack of other responsibilities like mowing the lawn, tending the garden, etc, etc. The exhibition is what the name states..."new work". You will find 2d and 3d work. We typically exhibit a wide variety of mediums. The New Work Exhibition begins Thursday, March 1st. We will have an artists reception on Friday, March 2nd, 5-8pm. The public is welcome so please bring your friends and family. There is no cost for admission. The LCVA Gallery is located at 112 W. Maumee St. in downtown Adrian, MI. For more information on drop off times, installation, or gallery sitting please click on the Gallery Sitting Schedule link or contact Bethany Camarati at bcamarati@adrian.edu .

Gallery hours are...

Thursdays, 4-8 pm
Fridays, 10-2 pm
Fridays, 4-8 pm
Saturdays, noon-4 pm

February 07 Update

Since our board meeting was cancelled due to the blizzard...here is a summary of some of the things that are going on with the LCVA.

1. The New Work Exhibition starts March 1. Check out the Gallery Sitting Schedule for important drop off and installation dates.

2. We have a new Gallery Director Intern and her name is Bethany Camarati. She is a senior at Adrian College. Her first task is to collect artist statements from exhibiting artists before the New Work Show.

3. Approximately 24 LCVA artists participated in the Youth Art Program Feb 3rd and Feb 10th. If you are an LCVA exhibiting artist and did not participate in the Youth Art Program but would still like to participate in the Artists of All Ages Exhibition in June please contact Pi or myself.

4. We're still moving forward with our goal to move the LCVA Gallery into the Bank of Lenawee. We'll have an update on this in March.

5. We want to remind everyone that your annual membership covers your entry fee for Lenawee Live this summer.

6. The LCVA is planning a Figurative Study group to be held at Adrian College. Email me if you're interested in joining the group. Tentative cost is $10 per person per night which pays for model and travel expenses. We're still working on the day. It will run from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. We hope to start some time in March.

7. Pending final approval from the Board we're still moving forward with a grant request for a community building mural project, facilitated by the nationally recognized muralist team AVEC (Arts Vitally Enrich Community). The LCVA proposes a collaborative 3-day session of mural making Sept 14-16, 2007, bringing together the Adrian College Department of Art, Visual Arts Educators from Lenawee (VAEL), and the Adrian Training School (ATS). The completed murals will tour five community sites (Adrian Public Library, Croswell Opera House, YMCA of Lenawee, Hope Communtiy Center, and Adrian College's Student Center) further expanding community involvement.

8. Miscellaneous Stuff: Has anyone seen the PBS documentary, "Two Toledos"? Check your local listings for the next time it airs. It's a documentary of artists from sister cities Toledo, OH and Toledo Spain.

Artists Juliana & Seth (Youth Art Program)

Artists Cornelia & Renee (Youth Art Program)

Artists Carlos and Joel (Youth Art Program)

Artists Catherine, Marjorie & Noel (Youth Art Program)

Artists Kimberly and Brooke (Youth Art Program)

Artists Mike and Crosby (Youth Art Program)

Artists Janet & Hannah (Youth Art Program)

Lenawee Artists of All Ages Concept

A few members came up with the idea two years ago. The idea was to have a show featuring members artwork and artwork of their children. It was then rightly modified to members artwork and any childs artwork. The first show in 2006 was good, but this year we want to make it better. Our goal is to really highlight the experience of the two age groups working together. The working relationship between the two age groups sparked the interest of the Stephen L. Hickman Family. And, it was this relationship concept that motivated them to sponsor the exhibition.

Part one of this idea calls for volunteers. We have some but we need more ASAP. We need volunteers to help instruct children who are enrolled in the Adrian College/YMCA Youth Art Program for one day only (Feb 3rd or Feb 10th). For volunteer information click here.

The childrens work created during your one day workshop will be matted and framed for display during the Lenawee Artists of All Ages Exhibition, June 21 - July 21.

Part two of this idea will require you to create one or more pieces of art in response to the childrens work. And, that's all there is to it. We'll take it from there.

LCVA Volunteer Info for Youth Art Program

Information for Lenawee All Artists One-on-One Activity

1. You have or will select either Saturday Feb 3 or Sat Feb 10. It will take place from 9:30- noon. Right now we have more people on the 3rd if it doesn’t matter to you.

2. Bring most of your own supplies and tools but if you need basic stuff or large equipment like an extension cord, easel, paper towels, bandsaw, a vice, etc let me know so I can make sure to have it on hand for you or make sure it is working correctly. If you could let me know a week in advance that would be great. Call me at (517)263-9548, 264-3901 or email pbenio@adrian.edu

3. Plan on being at the Art and Design Dept, top floor, Mahan Hall, Adrian College campus with enough time to get situated and set up. You will be in a studio that is most conducive to your activity. Pi will be there at 8am both mornings, so come between 8 and 9am.

4. You will show the child, who could be between 1st and 8th grade, how to work in your particular media and technique and help them to produce at the very least one piece. Of the works that they produce, you will keep what you think are the 1 or 2 best. These will become the works that you will use as inspirations for a work you will create for the exhibition at the LCVA Gallery June21-July 21, (work due the week prior). Both your work and the child’s will be presented together in the gallery. If you think your project is best for a particular age group let me know asap. Also, if you could leave work that needs to be matted with us that day, I will get it matted within the next week and leave it at the LCVA Gallery for you to pick up so you have plenty of time to use it as your muse. Just remember that it is the work that will be displayed and you will need to bring it when you bring your work.


For those members asking others to participate, questions to ask:
1. date
2. media (we are trying to get a range and already have two of each of these media: monoprints, metal, clay)
3. best age
4. what basic stuff can be supplied for you (see #2)
5. get the above info to Pi ASAP!