Downtown Gallery Hosts Community and Professional Shows to Provide Needed Outlet for Artists, Community by David Dinsmore
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t started with a space. Artist LeAnne Henry Wright moved to a new gallery at 14B West Main St. in Shawnee in January. One morning not long after that, she was drinking coffee at home and looking at the pieces she has from other professional artists in this area, and it struck her that she needed to use her new gallery to demonstrate the level of talent living in and around the community. “It’s insane that all these artists live in Shawnee,” Wright said. “Their work is represented all across the country in galleries and museums.” As she began contacting the four artists – Corey Fuller, Paula Jones, Julie Marks Blackstone, and Lucas Simmons – Wright began envisioning a big event at the gallery that not only showcased the talent of her colleagues but also celebrated the community they call home. 18
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Professional artists Paula Jones, LeAnne Henry Wright, Julie Marks Blackstone, Lucas Simmons and Corey Fuller will each feature works as part of a show titled “Sustenance,” a recognition of local talent that has caught attention from art lovers across the country and an acknowledgement of the need for art even in the toughest of times.
