Summer is fast approaching and we have been busy bees over at Open Door. This Inspired That is still on view, wowing visitors. We are gearing up for Figurative Language, a new  exhibit opening on June 9th. Wallace Peck is our featured artist this month. Read on to learn about his AMAZING accomplishments, including being selected for the Columbus Arts Festival!  

It is truly an honor to share with you all that is happening at Open Door. Our supporters are so vital to our success. So here is a proverbial high five from us, to you. As Jon Stewart (the Open Door Artist, not the late-night TV commentator) would say, "You are the awesome!" And you really, really are. Thank you!

Click on Wallace to view his portfolio

Wallace Peck enters and leaves the studio with a smile. On the surfaces of his paintings lines and fields of color mix to form large, abstracted figures. Painting on canvas is primary to Wallace's studio practice. His process has evolved over time, but he currently prefers to paint a background first and then sketch in the figures or other imagery. With the addition of thin layers of paint and detail lines with various markers, the painting is complete. Wallace's work strikes the perfect balance between intentional and spontaneous mark-making. In addition to painting on canvas, Wallace also works on wood and paper.

Wallace's figures are easily identified by their distinctive large, toothy grins and ringed eyes. Besides people and animals, Wallace enjoys drawing houses which read as beautiful abstractions with layers upon layers of line work. Wallace's speed and determination provide him the opportunity for much experimentation. Wallace is very modest about his prolific body of work. He is always excited to work on a "painted picture" and loves the attention and financial success his art has brought him. The giant grin that lights up his face when asked about selling a piece or starting a new project is very infectious. He just "wants to make people happy" and his "painted pictures" most assuredly have done that many times over.

Sunshine on my Shoulder, Wallace Peck, painting

June 1, 2 & 3
Downtown Riverfront
Fri.-Sat: 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sun: 11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.  

Figurative Language:

The Visual Vocabulary of Charles Porter, John Emanuele and Wallace Peck

Figurative Language is an exhibition of works created by three exemplary artists. Porter, Emanuele, and Peck each approach depicting the figure with a fresh perspective. Peck's concentric lines, Emanuele's bold colors and Porter's ethereal washes distinguish their work from one another. When displayed together the figures truly come to life.   

Credit (from left to right): Charles Porter, John Emanuele and Wallace Peck

Mark your calendars!

Figurative Language Opening Reception

Saturday, June 9th from 5pm until 7pm

Where:

1050 Goodale Boulevard

Grandview Heights, Ohio 43212.

Light hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served in this unique and inspiring art setting. For those unable to attend the reception, the exhibit will be on display from June 9th until August 4th.   

Cary next to a Wallace Peck piece

Open Door is proud to announce Cary Jenkins as this year's recipient of the Max Velez Outstanding Volunteer Award. Open Door was fortunate to have Cary volunteer everyday for four weeks. In that time, Cary's outgoing nature and charismatic personality proved to be a great contribution to the studio environment. We are grateful for his volunteer service and hope he won't be a stranger to Open Door in the future.    

Max Velez, the inspiration for the award, began volunteering at Open Door to fulfill the expectations of his senior project. He has continued to be an important member of the Open Door community. We were so impressed with his approach and dedication we decided to create the Max Velez Outstanding Volunteer Award. The Award is given out no more than once a year and the recipient is someone who displays outstanding volunteer services working directly with the individuals who attend Open Door.    

Open Door expresses much gratitude for our outstanding volunteers!