Anglin Smith Fine Art presents a selection of new paintings by Betty Anglin Smith and Colorado artist Mark Daniel Nelson in an exhibition entitled Surroundings, opening on May 6th.
“Our surroundings are those things around us that we see on a daily basis to the point that perhaps we don't see them at all. These buildings, roads, street corners, trees, landscapes and skies are part of our everyday existence and can easily become mundane. However, the artist sees the same objects as abstract shapes, interesting designs, and exciting color and contrast when the sunlight strikes just right. Through the artist's portrayal, the viewer develops a heightened awareness of the beauty and complexities of his "surroundings".”
Betty Anglin Smith is a native of the Carolinas and has firmly established herself as an enduring artist in the region. After the birth of her triplets, all now successful artists themselves, Smith pursued her training as an artist and has now been painting for over 40 years. Her paintings adorn the walls of private collections in the area, around the country, and abroad. Her recognizable and vibrant style has made her a favorite among collectors.
As a high school student, Mark Daniel Nelson was awarded the prestigious National Scholastics Art Scholarship, which he used to attend the Colorado Institute of Art. Graduating with Best Portfolio honors, Nelson earned a living as an illustrator working for clients including Coors, University of Denver, The Miami Herald, 5280 Magazine, and legendary photographer James Balog.
Nelson has since shifted his artistic focus to painting abstract geometric forms - natural as well as structural - in pursuit of what he terms "a contemporary sublime". Nelson's work has been placed in a number of prominent regional and national collections and has been displayed at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver.
Surroundings will be on view at Anglin Smith Fine Art, at 9 Queen Street in Charleston, from May 6-20. There will be an opening reception on Friday, May 6, from 5 – 8pm.