Many are almost larger than life. They fill the galleries of artCentral downstairs and upstairs, too—with out-sized dimensions and pulsating energy and jazzy excitement and palpable joy. They just might cause you to want to dance or sing or maybe sway like an undulating wave. They will for sure make you smile with wonder and delight.
These are the artful pleasures waiting for you at Hyde House in PAINT in MOTION, Philip Ledbetter’s extraordinary collection of paintings on canvas. They will stimulate you. They will soothe you. They will satisfy you. They are just what we need in this new spring as we step out of the long, dark months of the year just past and walk into a bright new season!
Now that the backstory has been told of exhibiting artist Philip Ledbetter, come meet the artist and see his amazing art. Phil’s Opening Reception is April 2, Friday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at 1110 East Thirteenth Street where CDC protocols will be practiced to keep us all safe and healthy. Masks are required.
PAINT in MOTION is the perfect title for this collection. As Phil explains, “All the paintings in this portfolio were first brushed with a latex foundation color, then created by some method of dripping or throwing the paint onto the canvas. With my technique the paint leaves the brush, or whatever implement I am using, moves through the air and is actually in motion before landing on the canvas.
I really like that my work strays from the norm. I learn new techniques with each painting. I love to experiment with colors. I enjoy producing paintings that create a mood or give the observer a lot to consider.”
Reflecting on his artistic influences Phil explains, “The body of work that I have created for PAINT in MOTION was inspired by the sun and the sea, nature and artists that I love. My artistic inspirations include Jackson Pollock, Wassily Kandinsky and Andy Warhol.”
While influenced by well-known artists, Phil has developed a style uniquely his own. His definitive artistic voice belies the fact that some might consider him an emerging artist. Though a frequent participant in group exhibits, he is just now beginning to land regional solo exhibitions which to date include Joplin and Neosho, Missouri, as well as Columbus, Kansas, and now, Carthage.
Giving more insight into his approach to art-making, Phil tells us, “Some of the paintings for PAINT in MOTION were spontaneously created or inspired by the music that I was listening to while I was painting. My musical favorites are The Beatles, Mozart, Strauss, Bob Dylan, Earl Scruggs, The Dillards and Roy Clark.”
A musician himself, playing guitar, and five string banjo, Phil has given concerts in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Kansas and in many a watering hole in and around Carthage and Joplin.
Revealing his wishes for his current painterly outing at artCentral, Phil declares, “My greatest hope is that you are thoroughly entertained. Your coming out to see my exhibit means the world to me. Thank you so much.”
Mark your calendar for Phil’s Opening Reception on April 2, Friday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Weather permitting libations and a light party fare will be on offer outdoors. Though this will not be a musical gig for Phil, music will definitely be a part of the festive evening.
PAINT in MOTION will continue through May 15 with Weekend Gallery Hours, Fridays and Saturdays, 12:00-5:00 p.m. If you miss the chance to meet and visit with Phil at his Opening you will have more opportunities! He will be serving as the Gallery Docent for all Saturdays during the run of PAINT in MOTION. I will look forward to greeting you on Fridays.
In the spirit of best practices to serve our community of artists and art lovers, artCentral has been officially certified as an ArtSafe Space by the Missouri Arts Council (www.missouriartsafe.org). CDC protocols are carefully followed including face masks, social distancing, contact tracing and sanitizing. To accommodate social distancing, access to the exhibition will be by limited numbers. You may have a brief wait before your turn to enter Hyde House, meet Phil and see PAINT in MOTION. Your little wait will be well-worth the many large pleasures waiting for you inside!
