By Faith McClain
Ken Nichols, A Picture of My Brain Making Healthy Choices, Acrylic on canvas
Hello! My name is Faith, I am the newest intern at Columbia Art League. I am a senior at the University of Missouri studying art and art history. I had the pleasure of starting my internship the same week of the Devour reception. In fact, it was my first day in the gallery!
On January 19th, after my first full day of intern life at CAL, I stayed to attend the reception of Devour, and I am so glad I did. There was an incredible turnout, despite the frigid temperatures, and everyone seemed so excited to be back for the first show of the year. The energy and atmosphere were so warm and welcoming, with the local artists near to talk about their work, volunteers to answer any logistical questions and the patrons who stimulated great conversations about the exhibit and local art in general.
Willa Campbell, Heavy Syrup, Mixed media
I attended the reception of the deliciously themed exhibit with two of my friends. We started our evening by grabbing a few snacks to kick off our perusing. It was such a surreal experience walking around the gallery where I work, answering all my friends’ questions, and sharing that side of my life with them. I started by explaining the inspiration behind Devour, an exhibit that showcases work influenced by “dishes that are so delectable, so delicious that something ravenous awakens”, and how it coincides with another event, Let Them Eat Art where local chefs create appetizing dishes for guests to enjoy that are inspired by a specific piece of art from the show.
Sofia Heredia, Strawberries in Chocolate, Colored pencils
One of my friends found themselves drawn to Willa Campbell’s Heavy Syrup, a beautiful mixed media piece that centers a peach. My friend talked about the delicacy and femininity she felt in the piece through the pink shades and soft textures, but what truly caught her eye was the glittery drippings of the syrup on the peach. My other friend was more captivated by Strawberries in Chocolate, a photo-realistic, colored pencil drawing by Sofia Heredia. My friend was enamored with the details of the drawing, calling attention to the leaves of the strawberries and the beautiful, marbled chocolate the strawberry appears to be dipped in.
Curtis Hendricks, Lobster Roll Jazz, Photographical digital art
My friends and I had a wonderful time absorbing the art displayed. We took so many photos to remember such a wonderful evening. We were also introduced to several art-minded patrons and artists who loved sharing their art interests and passions with us. Devour was the perfect exhibit to kick off my time at Columbia Art League and I can’t wait for the next!
