My painting "Gate 10" was selected to be part of the juried art exhibit "Containers for the Self" at Black Earth Gallery in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This was the first call for entries to which I have ever responded, and it was exciting to have one of my works chosen. The opening night was March 2, and it was cool hanging out with the art crowd. There were some imaginative and creative pieces in the show: Artist Ariel Cotton flew in from her native New York City to Cedar Rapids to display her entry—a screaming dress. Daughter Betsy and wife Theresa stopped by later in the evening, and I enjoyed talking with the other artists.
Art Consultant and Gallery Owner Anne Stamats has created a wonderful little gallery in the New Bo district of Cedar Rapids. She is a talented artist and photographer in her own right. In just 2-1/2 years, Anne has built Black Earth into one of the best contemporary art galleries in the region.
Professor Emerita Jane Gilmore from Mount Mercy University was the juror for the show. Originally, I entered three paintings. Including "Gate 10", I entered "My Brother at the Getty" and "Sunlight in a Coffee Shop", the painting of my daughter. Jane selected "Gate 10" because it best fit the theme of the exhibit.
I look forward to entering more of my paintings in upcoming art shows.