Right Around the River Blog
Rocketts Art Studios Showcases Abstract Expressionism at Open House
Post Date: 06-20-2014
Art is in the air at Rocketts Landing! Rocketts Art Studios (RAS) is a working art studio/gallery featuring the work of local painter Diane Clement with rotating exhibits from other local artists. Founded and owned by Rocketts Landing resident Tom Yeaman, RAS also display Tom's unique collection of art from around the world — merging an eclectic, sophisticated mix of global art and regional expression.
Rocketts Art Studios is the only working art studio at Rocketts Landing.
RAS has a new show opening on June 26 featuring a collaborative
exhibit from Diane and abstract painter William Parrish, who — in addition to
creating their own works — collaborated on a large-scale painting. Two
painters collaborating together is not the normal creative process for each artist.
So, we decided to pick their brains about the process of working together and
what influences them in their work. Below is our Q&A. Enjoy!
Rocketts Landing: How long have you been painting?
William Parrish: Since high school.
Diane Clement: Since I can remember. My mother and grandmother both painted, [and I've
been painting] professionally since 2003.
"Lucifer's Garden" by William Parrish
RL: What inspires you in your work?
DC: Everything!RL: How does Richmond impact you as an artist?
WP: Abstract images can come from anywhere [for me], not just Richmond.
DC: I'm
fortunate in this neat little city to be so close to everything (mountains and
shoreline)! The changing of the seasons we experience here is one of my biggest
inspirations.
"Untitled Cow Head Exploding" by Diane Clement
RL: What is the process like when painting collaboratively with another artist?
WP: I don't normally collaborate on paintings. Diane and I paint together from time to time. Our styles mesh, sometimes, and when we are together painting [individually] outside, we take a break to paint together.
DC: Collaborative
painting is a rarity for me. It's too much like "committee work." I
simply cannot meet my passion if I have to wait for "input" in any
form. My head is full, full, full of ideas — all of the time. My method is
free, un-timed, unadulterated fun! I feel like I can only be true to my passion
as a painter if I paint freely, without any more constraints than the lack of
material and supplies or time and ability.
Untitled painting created by William Parrish and Diane Clement
RL: Do you have a favorite painting that emerged from your newest work?
WP: I love all of my work.
DC: All of my paintings are my favorite. I love "Untitled Cow Head Explosion," because I'm experimenting with different techniques involving things that don't mix, like mineral spirits, water and acrylics. Way too much fun!
RL: What artist inspires you the most?
WP: Not one certain artist.
DC: My favorite artist of all time is Van Gogh. Clearly we have different styles, but I can feel his angst through the decades. Against popular belief, I do not compare myself to Pollock, but I understand his "process," I think (I refuse to study him/his work). I'm self-taught, and this whole journey is about the process for me.
"Birdman" by William Parrish
RL: What's your favorite aspect of the RVA art scene?
DC: It's good to see how the art scene here has grown so much. It would be great, as well, if all of the lovely artists here could actually pay the rent with their artistic efforts, and [fortunately], many terrific gallery owners are out there working for us. I am definitely one of the lucky ones. Richmond has been very good to me, as far as Richmonders collecting my work. I'm very lucky and blessed. Thank you, Richmond!
RL: What adjectives
do you feel best describe you as an artist?
"White Barbed Wire Fence" by Diane Clement, part of her "White Picket Fence Series" — a lifelong endeavor.
RL: In what timeframe did you and Diane create your collaborate pieces, and how did this impact the art?
WP: We really enjoy what we do and from time to time, we [paint] together. These are usually in the spur of the afternoon and at the end of a long day — a time to enjoy.
DC: Like I said, I [usually] do not do collaborative paintings. Over the past seven years that I've known Bill, he and I have painted maybe two or three paintings. Usually, we are painting outside in the summer, and at the end of the day, we will break from our individual work and paint together. Just as free as anything! No theme, no competition, no comparing notes, just enjoying painting together, whatever comes out. It's a fun break and a fun way to create a beautiful painting.
"Inbetween Dreams" by William Parrish
RL: What's your overall impression of your new show at RAS?
DC: It's a great show if you like abstract expressionism. A variety of styles and colors and energy are upon these canvases. Remember, this is predominately a large studio, so the show space is limited. There is, however, a house full of art!
After a sneak peek at the new works Diane and William have on display at RAS, we're certain you'll want to check them out at Rocketts Art Studios! You can also explore more paintings on Diane Clement's website. We look forward to seeing you right around the river at Rocketts Landing.
- What: Rocketts Art Studios Open House
- When: Thursday, June 26, 2014
- Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Where: 4401 East Main Street, at the intersection of Whart St. and Nicholson St.
- RSVP: Not necessary, but you can keep up with studio details on the Rocketts Art Studios Facebook page. You can also contact them at 804.358.9944 or email them at RockettsArtStudios@gmail.com.