Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

Rural Landscapes by Gregory Smith at The Art Cellar July 3 to 26

Artist’s Reception at the Gallery Saturday

Story by Linda Kramer Yellow House by Gregory Smith, acrylic on linen

The Art Cellar Gallery in Banner Elk is presenting Gregory Smith’s much-anticipated exhibition Rural Landscapes from Thursday, July 3, through Saturday, July 26. An opening reception for the artist will take place on Saturday, July 5, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., and the public is invited to meet this talented regional artist and celebrate his work.

Smith grew up in the Matney community near Valle Crucis where he lives and works today. Shelton Wilder, Smith’s art teacher at Watauga High School, mentored and encouraged his talent. Smith later graduated from ASU with a degree in art, but you seldom see this self-described hermit on the local art scene.

Backlight by Gregory Smith, acrylic on paper Smith works primarily in oils and acrylics and creates both large- and small-scale works. While his works have been featured in many solo exhibits and are in numerous corporate and private collections throughout the United States, this new exhibit at the Art Cellar will feature his much sought-after paintings of rural landscapes, barns and old homes, many of which are community and personal landmarks.

“I have always been interested in documenting the vistas and motifs I grew up with, but I don’t want to be labeled strictly as a landscape artist,” Smith said. “In school, they teach you to find a style, but I don’t want to be in a box.”
The exhibition at the Art Cellar Gallery demonstrates Smith’s mastery of technique and skill at capturing atmosphere and emotion on canvas. The exhibition will also include a few of his richly detailed trompe l’oeil paintings and portraits.

Smith has a broad interest not only in the arts, but also in literature and history—interests that feed his artistic directions. Antique furniture and regional pottery have been subjects of his paintings, as well as portraits of Dante and Sitting Bull, indicating the range and skill of this complex artist.

When asked to talk about his work, Smith expounds on the inspiration and challenges of the physical properties of the paint itself. He is accomplished at mixing his own colors so they demonstrate subtle hues rather than explosions of dramatic color, while still creating effective illusion, mood, value and tone.
Smith’s work reflects his deep familiarity and understanding of his subjects.
“Art, to me, is a way to digest and reflect upon the world and to meditate and be centered with the universe,” he said. “It’s my anchor that keeps me from drifting off. I am always amazed when people buy my art.”

Every artist has a unique legacy. Smith said, “I would like to be remembered as a sincere, committed artist who never stopped exploring and moving forward.”
The Art Cellar Gallery is located on Highway 184 in Banner Elk. For more info call 828-898-5175 or click to www.artcellaronline.com.

Want To Go?
Date: Saturday, July 5
Time: 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Art Cellar Gallery, Banner Elk
Cost: Free