ISSUE June 2019

THE ARTS MAGAZINE OF THE ART STUDIO, INC.

JUNE 2019

SUMMER CREATIVITY PAGE 4

INSIDE: GEEK’S SUMMER GUIDE, SPINNEY AT BAL, BEAUMONT CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, AND MORE

WANTED Live models needed for Life Drawing, Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m.

Contact Sara Tuell at saratuell@gmail.com

SUPPORTS THE ART STUDIO, INC.

info@signinternational.com 409.832.0117 7398 College St. in Beaumont

ISSUE Vol. 25, No. 9 Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Art Studio, Inc. Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Coughlan Contributing Writers......Michelle Cate, Jeff Dixon, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stephan Malick Copy Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beth Gallaspy Contributing Photographer . . . . . . Michelle Cate Distribution . . . . . . . Olivia Malick, Elijah Malick

A View From The Top Greg Busceme, TASI Director Thank you everyone for coming to Lisa Reinauer’s exhibition “Allegories.” Lisa is and has been a diligent participant in TASIMJAE whether accepted or not. She sets a good example of diligence and perseverance.

The willing eagerness to produce and present your work is key in your drive as an artist.

An actor does not memorize lines if there is no play to perform. There is no race if there is no finish line. Artists of all disciplines need a deadline, a show booking, a venue to seek affirmation for our efforts at creativity.

The public’s role as the witness to the exhibit is desire to be the first to hear the music, see the art or watch the performance.

We have a new intern working at The Studio. Welcome Laura Little, with support from Work Resources Texas. This is a good opportunity for young people to experience a nonprofit environment and see the results of what

The Art Studio, Inc. Board of Directors Corporate President . . . . . . . . . . Greg Busceme Corporate Vice-President . . . . . Angela Scheibel Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stephan Malick Membership. . . . . . . . . . . . Kelly Logan Murphy Members at Large . . . . . . Stephanie Chadwick, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia Busceme, . . . . . . . . . . . Allison Kainer, Jessica Prince, . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheila Busceme, Sara Tuell, . . . . . . . . . . . John Rollins, Laurie Gordon Tenant Representative . . . . . Elizabeth Fontenot Assistant Director . . . . . . . . . Marilyn Tennissen

The Art Studio, Inc. 720 Franklin Beaumont, TX 77701 409-838-5393 www.artstudio.org info@artstudio.org The ISSUE is a monthly publication of The Art Studio, Inc. Its mission is to publicize The Art Studio and its tenants, and to promote the growth of the arts in Southeast Texas. ISSUE is also charged with informing TASI members of projects, progress, achievements and setbacks in TASI’s well-being. Further, ISSUE strives to promote and distribute the writings of local authors in its “Thoughtcrime” feature.

ISSUE is provided free of charge to members of TASI and is also available, free of charge, at more than 30 locations in Southeast Texas.

Regular features include local artists of note and reputation who are not currently exhibiting at TASI; artists currently or soon to be exhibiting at TASI; Instructional articles for artists; news stories regarding the state of TASI’s organization; and arts news features dealing with general philosophical issues of interest to artists.

Contents TASI Summer ArtSkool . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 Richard Spinney at BAL . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 6 Alternative Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 7 Geek’s Summer Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8 Beaumont Children’s Museum . . . . . . Page 10 Above Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13 Around & About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14 Thoughtcrime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15 Cover by Andy Coughlan

JUNE

we do. We always need extra people to handle a busy day and make improvements on the facility. This has an added bonus of someone being paid to help us. Thanks so much for bringing her to us. It is a perfect fit.

By the time this magazine comes out I will be almost gone or on my way to Japan. This is so exciting for me to actually go OUT OF THE COUNTRY! There are so many things that can come from this visit. On my mind is artists and students from Beppu University and other nearby colleges to travel abroad to Beaumont and, of course, send our diligent students and artists to visit our sister city. Through this educational and cultural exchange that Chris Troutman has carved out over the years, we will be able to benefit our community and Beppu theirs, and we both come out better col-

See VIEW on page 14

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS AT THE ART STUDIO SEPTEMBER

The Alternative Show Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 1

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ART STUDIO

The Tenants Show Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 7

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Membership in The Art Studio, Inc., provides invitations to all exhibitions and one year of ISSUE, the monthly arts magazine of The Art Studio. It also gives free eligibility for members to enter the annual membership art exhibition (TASIMJAE) and participate in various exhibitions throughout the year.

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4 • ISSUE June 2019

Volume 25, No. 9

TASI’s annual summer camp combines creativity, education

KEEPING KIDS BUSY DOING something other than being glued to phone or computer screens is always a challenge, and The Art Studio, Inc. is again hosting its stimulating, annual two-week ArtSkool, July 22-26 and July 29-Aug. 2, at the 720 Franklin St. location in downtown Beaumont.

What’s new this year is something for the younger kids, ages 5-7, the ArtSkool Mini going on July 15-July 19. These sessions will be only from 9 a.m. to noon each day and costs $100 for the full week with snacks and materials included. Class size is limited.

“We’ve had such a demand to offer something for younger students,” Gina Garcia, ArtSkool director, said. “The regular sessions are for older kids and teenagers and are a bit more physically challenging. The mini is designed for the younger kids’ skill and physical level.”

For the regular sessions, parents can sign students up for morning and afternoon sessions that offer printmaking, mixed media projects, ceramics and raku, film photography and papier maché. Students get exposure to all the sessions each week and get to show off their work with an opening reception each Friday evening.

Brittany Tanton, instructor for the afternoon drawing sessions section, said the camp offerings have something for everyone.

“The camp itself creates friendships, positive experiences, and helps campers build on their love for art with new skills and techniques,” she said.

Tanton, who teaches art at Silsbee High School and will also teach camp at the Silsbee Ice House Museum, said she loves teaching students of all ages and enjoys the positive experience ArtSkool gives to campers.

“I would like campers to leave with learning basics with finished products they are happy with and confidence in their own personal drawing abilities,” she said.

Parents and students are reminded to “dress for the mess” and to pack a sack lunch. The famous Studio pink lemonade, along with water, will be available to attendees. Parents should not drop off students earlier than 15 minutes before classes begin nor pick-up students any later than 15 minutes after the end of the sessions.

Story and photos by Stephan Malick

Minis-July 15-19. A new program this year for 5-7 year olds 9 a.m. to noon. Limited class size. $100

Session I-July 22-26 • Session II- July 29-Aug. 2 Mornings: 9 a.m. to noon • Afternoons: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Ages 8-15. Printmaking, drawing, papier maché, photography Morning, afternoon or all-day classes available $200 all day • $100 morning or afternoon only

June 2019 ISSUE • 5

Volume 25, No. 9 “It’s a fun and exciting art experience. Students get to practice different mediums — it’s not just some random class where kids do a specific project,” Tanton said. “They get to explore and learn techniques. It is an art education class, not just busy work.”

Garcia said she sees the program as something for students to build on.

“Students that come to Artskool really get a foundational exposure to art,” she said. “Our hope is that the classes encourage kids to explore their creative side more, and that the classes also give them some of the technical knowledge of how to produce their ideas and how to problem solve.”

Garcia said she saw the idea germinate when her daughter Paisley was a student in the program.

“We give students the tools and knowledge so that when they go home they can continue to be creative and work on their ideas,” Garcia said. “We’ve had students like Avril Falgout that took one session and then took their interests to the next level with winning major art contests and earning scholarships and study abroad opportunities.”

Port Neches native Falgout, then 17, won the 2015 TASIMJAE (The Art Studio, Inc. Member Jurored Art Exhibition) competition over 66 other entries and was invited to the Lawndale “Big Show” for contemporary art in Houston. She is also graduate of the Texas Academy of Leadership in the Humanities at Lamar University and after completing that program was accepted into an art history degree program at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

“It’s learning at your own pace,” Garcia said. “It’s very individual, and students get to make what they want and develop their own ideas, and The Studio wants to share that process with other kids in the area.

“This is an opportunity for students of all skill levels.

Classes & Instructors

DRAWING & COLOR THEORY Brittany Tanton PRINTMAKING Elizabeth Fontenot MIXED MEDIA Gina Garcia CERAMICS/RAKU Greg Busceme FILM PHOTOGRAPHY Paisley Polk PAPIER MACHÉ Paisley Polk with Raney Knox The class builds their confidence. It’s a chance for them to build on their ideas to the next level if that is what they want. We say to the kids that, ‘Hey, you have this talent within you. This a chance for you to develop it however you want.’”

Garcia said students are broken down into age groups and experience levels so they can pursue their interests.

Some students return to ArtSkool for multiple years, and Garcia said not all the students will need the same instruction or direction to begin work.

Garcia said she hopes students leave with the skills and tools to grow and to create art in their day-to-day world at home.

Regular classes are for ages 9-15 years-old, and each session, morning or afternoon, is $100 per week for a combined weekly cost of $200 for both sessions including all classes. Morning sessions are from 9 a.m.-noon

and afternoon sessions are from 1 p.m.-4 p.m., MondayFriday.

There is a weekly exhibition each Friday evening from 5 p.m.-6 p.m for the students and their family and friends.

Students take their projects home after the reception on Friday.

For more information, call 409-838-5393, or visit www.artstudio.org.

Santa’s other workshop

6 • ISSUE June 2019

Volume 25, No. 9

Richard Spinney to exhibit his wood art at BAL in July

RICHARD SPINNEY’S WORKSHOP IS chock full of wood, from carved cowboy hat to various whales and dolphins, the lines from the wood grain elegantly snaking around the contours of the pieces. There is also a plethora of scraps, boards and blocks of cherry, Spinney, who has played Santa at Parkdale Mall for the past 17 years, said this is Santa’s other workshop.

“This workshop requires air conditioning,” he said, laughing.

Since he retired in 2004, Spinney, 77, has carved, sanded, glued and shaped all manner of objects from wood. So much so, that he is looking forward to his upcoming solo show at the Beaumont Art League, opening with a reception 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., July 13, partly to share his artistry and partly in hopes of selling some work so he can clear some space.

“I’m out in my shop two to eight hours a day, five to six days

Story and photos by Andy Coughlan

a week — I’m getting too prolific,” he said. “I’m putting out stuff like crazy. I’ve either gotta stop carving or find more outlets. The dilemma is, I keep producing, and it fills my shop up, and I’ve got no room to work. And in order to do my work I’ve got to acquire more wood.”

The self-taught artist found his passion for woodworking in the early 1970s. It grew out of a fascination with whales and dolphins, he said.

“Back in 1974 or 5, I’m not sure which, I sat down with a knife and a piece of cherry and attempted to carve a dolphin,” he said. “That carving is now in a museum for wood carvers, along with a more recent one — thank god they don’t look alike; there was improvement. It took me forever because I tried to use a knife, and cherry is a

See SPINNEY on page 12

Richard Spinney’s workshop, above, is full of wood ready to be turned into art, like this whale, left. Spinney will show his work in a solo show at the Beaumont Art League in July.

Volume 25, No. 9

TASI’s first-come, first-served art exhibit to open June 1

June 2019 ISSUE • 7

Submissions accepted in person, May 28-30

ARTISTS LOOKING FOR A place to show off their latest creations need look no further than The Art Studio, Inc. in June. Submissions are being accepted for the annual Alternative Show, a free-for-all art exhibition on display June 1-26.

The show will open June 1 with a reception, 7-10 p.m. at TASI’s gallery, 720 Franklin St. in downtown Beaumont.

Entry is free and submissions will be accepted in person May 28-30, noon-5 p.m. All works must be show ready, and wall pieces must be wired (no sawtooths).

“This is a great opportunity for artists of all ages to exhibit their work,” Greg Busceme, TASI director, said.

“There are no judges, and everyone is accepted. Many local artists have used this opportunity to show their work for the first time in a public setting.”

The Studio hosts the Alternative Show every June as part of its mission to encourage participation in the arts.

“Too often, people are making art but worry that they are ‘not good enough,’” Busceme said. “The Alternative Show traditionally features work that represents all ages and all levels of experience. If you make art, an important part of the process is putting it out there to be seen. That’s what this show is intended to do — give you a chance to show your stuff in a friendly, nurturing environment.”

For more information, call 409-838-5393, or email info@artstudio.org.

8 • ISSUE June 2019

Volume 25, No. 9

The Geek offers suggestions From Disney to Spidey to Tarantino, The Geek has lots to look forward to

Commentary by Jeff Dixon

Dixon is pretty sure we’re spiraling toward the dystopian future of “Robocop.” At least he hopes so. “Handmaid’s Tale” seems like a bummer.

Friends and neighbors, at the time of this writing, yours truly has still not had the time or the opportunity to see “Avengers: Endgame.” If at any moment during this piece of fluff you find yourself thinking, “Why didn’t he make this obvious reference to ‘Endgame’ after saying this or that?” well I can tell you it was not my intention to hurt you or to sully my good name, and in the future, or the past, I will take these things more seriously.

Well, the cool breeze of winter has headed north for good and the rancid heat has overtaken this swamp we call home. That must mean it’s time for the Summer edition of the Geek’s Guide. Listen, I’m not going to talk about “Toy Story 4.” It’s just not going to happen. I’m going to see it. You’re going to see it.

We’re all going to see it. What do you want from me? Let’s just move on. It’s a whole thing now.

THE DEAD DON’T DIE — First up on the list is a tried and true recipe for a summer blockbuster: grumpy old indie director and grumpy old comedic actor get together to make a zombie movie. I mean if you’ve seen one you’ve seen them all, but I’m still excited to see if Jim Jarmusch and Bill Murray can breathe some life into this old Hollywood standby. They’ll be joined by Adam “I’m in everything” Driver and the incomparable Chloë Sevigny, who will star alongside Murray as the sheriffs department of a small town overrun with hordes of the undead. Ghouls if you will. I’m not gonna lie to you, you’ll probably have to drive to Houston for this one, but at least you could make a day of it maybe.

Get some Greek food or something, maybe go to a museum. It’s your call, honestly.

SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME — I’m really excited for this one, no jokes or funny yet passive aggressive comments at all. Jake Gyllenhal is playing Mysterio, y’all! This is insanity. I’ve always wanted Mysterio in a film. He’s made for the big screen. A disgruntled special effects artist uses his knowledge of smoke and mirrors to, well, usually to rob banks or steal some kinda crazy chemical or isotope. Look, Mysterio wasn’t always the purest of souls, and he

might not have the relatable motivations of someone like say, the Vulture, but Christ man you gotta give him a chance. He’s trying his best here, y’know?

ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD — The ninth film by Quentin Tarantino and his fourth period piece in a row, this story centers around Hollywood in 1969 and how the case of Charles Manson affected the lives of actors and stuntmen working in the Southland.

Honestly, this is the film I’m looking forward to the most. Actors dealing with one of their own being dragged into a murderous cult is essentially ticking almost all the boxes in Tarantino bingo.

FAST & FURIOUS: HOBBS AND SHAW — So back when I was in college, Vin Diesel made this movie about a crew of street racers that were also part-time thieves. Real low level stuff, truckloads of electronics, that sort of thing. So if you were wondering, apropos of nothing, how long it takes a franchise about street racing thieves to go from stealing DVD players to genetically and cybernetically enhancing humans and turning them into super villains, the answer is nine movies. Nine. That’s eight films in the original franchise and one

June 2019 ISSUE • 9

Volume 25, No. 9

to escape the summer heat

spin off. Don’t get me wrong I’m going to see it, but if they don’t literally steal the moon in the next one, I don’t even know what we’re doing here anymore.

THE NEW MUTANTS — Now this is a weird one because it might not be released at all. The story behind this film is probably more interesting than the actual motion picture. You see a few years ago, Fox wanted to branch out in their X-Men franchises so they decided to make a horror film centered around young mutants in an asylum. Then Disney bought Fox in the middle of shooting, and after filming had wrapped, Fox, who were in no place to be shifting chess pieces, ordered reshoots.

After the reshoots were finished, it seemed the film had turned from a horror along the lines of “The Conjuring” into an outand-out thriller. The release date was pulled, and then suddenly after the merger with Disney and Fox finalized, the film was put back on schedule as a summer release.

But rumors persist that the film could be shelved again and possibly never see the light of day. So, basically, enter at your own risk.

SCARY STORIES TO TELL IN THE DARK — Everybody’s got that book. The one from when you were a kid that you can still conjure up images of. You can see the cover, that black and white drawing, the black border with the red and black letters.

The pages, mostly prose, every few pages another piece of art. The thing is, for a lot of us born in the ’80s, that book was “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.” I’ve literally never met a person within five years of my age on either side that hasn’t heard of these books. We lined up at the book fair to get our hands on one of the three in the series. We held them in high regard, still keeping them on our shelves in middle school and high school. We tell the stories over and over, at bonfires, on late night road trips, at parties on porches surrounded by drunken idiots. They’re a part of us, generationally speaking, and I’m hoping that the filmmakers can do these tales justice. I’m hoping they can make me afraid of the dark again.

ALADDIN/THE LION KING — This is pretty much money in the bank for Disney at this point, right? Just take a film you’ve already made, make it again with a more famous cast, and that’s literally all you have to do.

Now granted they are a huge company, and these two are just two of the literal hundreds of projects they are churning out every year, but mother of a son of a bitch, I’m just asking for a summer blockbuster that isn’t so safe. Am I asking for too much from the Mouse or not enough? I never know.

And that wraps it up, friends and neighbors. That should keep you in an air conditioned room at least a few weekends here and there, and what more could you ask for from a lowly film geek such as myself. If you need me, I’ll be writing the kind folks at Blue Bell a letter for their tireless efforts in keeping my temperature down this summer.

Mahalo!

FUN

Summertime and the learnin’ is…

10 • ISSUE June 2019

Beaumont Children’s Museum activities spark creativity

For all resourceful parents out there looking to not merely entertain, but also to educate and spark creativity and imagination in the minds of your children, look no further than the Beaumont Children’s Museum in downtown Beaumont. Nestled in the heart of the Cultural and Arts District and located inside the Beaumont Civic Center, the museum is a destination where your children and you can embark on a journey of wonderment and adventure together.

What makes this museum unique is that it is 100 percent kidfriendly, kid-oriented and dedicated to the needs of all children.

There are numerous activities available this summer so check out these upcoming events and programs.

For starters, they offer S.T.E.A.M.-themed summer camps from

Story and photos by Michelle Cate

The Beaumont Children’s Museum has a variety of interactive games and activities to both entertain and educate. The museum offers a variety of summer programs.

Volume 25, No. 9

Volume 25, No. 9 June to August for a range of school-aged children (first-sixth grades) on topics including robotics, space, Legos, critters and art. What a fun way to beat back summer doldrums by exploring new areas of interest.

For the youngest kids, there is Toddler Takeover every Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where you can bring your young children ages 5 and under and enjoy stories, crafts, science experiments, music and movement. Admission to Toddler Takeover is $5 a member child/$10 a non-member child. It is free for member adults and $5 for non-member adults.

Program cost is included in the price of admission.

“We also have our Imagineering Legos Day June 1 and our BCM Dino Day Aug. 24,” operations manager Daniella DeLaRue said.

A newer event called Sunshine Sundays, which takes place every other month, is designed to allow special needs children and their caregivers the opportunity to explore and enjoy their time together at the museum and to meet others on a similar journey while the museum is closed to the general public.

During the long, hot summer season, visiting the museum can be a refreshing treat for children and parents alike since it’s cool, indoors, fun, stimulating and inexpensive (only $5 for non-members). Membership can make it even more affordable.

Working parents with a 9-to-5 schedule will delight in extended hours, open until 7 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. The next two extended-hour events are June 21, which is “First Day of Summer” themed, and July 19, which is “Ice Cream Day.” If you’re looking for a venue for a child’s birthday party, Frederick Harland at the museum is the man with the plans. They offer a private room for one hour and 45 minutes and provide a fun, age-appropriate science-related activity.

Their standard package is for 10 children and their parents, and $7 dollars for each additional child with a maximum of 25 children. Your date and time can be reserved for only $100. They also have packages for Saturdays when the museum is open to the public, and on Sundays when the museum is closed to the public, while twohour exclusive private parties are also available Thursday through Friday.

The Beaumont Children’s Museum impressed me with its focused attention on the needs of children, and its careful planning and execution of programs that are sure to spark a sense of wonder, encourage curiosity and discovery.

For more info and registration, visit their website, www.beaumontchildrensmuseum.org, or call 409-347-7919.

June 2019 ISSUE • 11

12 • ISSUE June 2019

SPINNEY from page 6 very hard wood. It took me about 25 hours to carve the thing. But (I had a) feeling of satisfaction when it was done.”

Spinney said he doesn’t really know what a particular piece will become. He leaves it up to the wood to decide.

“I don’t know how to explain it,” he said. “You see a piece of wood, and sometimes you see something in it, and sometimes it sits around the shop for five years and does nothing — then all of a sudden there it is, something pops into your head. I’ve saved wood for 20 years before I’ve used it.

“My wife says, ‘What are you going to do with all this wood?’ I say I don’t know right this second. This piece and that piece, when I get an idea come, I’ll do it.

But do I know exactly what I’ll do with it?

No.” Much of Spinney’s work incorporates the natural color of the particular wood.

He also has a gift for using the natural grain to enhance the design.

“After 40 years, if you can’t carve something you should have given up 35 years ago,” he said, laughing. “But we always improve.”

A sense of play infuses Spinney’s work, and he is constantly trying different styles and ideas.

“I have a friend who carves nothing but Santa Clauses, 400 or 500 a year,” he said. “I don’t want to do that. It’s like work — and I retired from work. If someone says, ‘Can you make me 10 of these?’

I’m like, no. Now if someone wanted 10 dolphins I might consider it.”

Spinney said that he hopes visitors to the show will leave with an appreciation for wood. Although it is a renewable resource, there are some woods that are becoming scarce.

“You can’t get chestnut any more, or if you do, somebody’s got it hidden in a barn somewhere and wants $50 a board foot — and a board foot won’t make very much,” he said. “I love to make whales out of butternut. It is easy to carve; it has nice color and good grain — it’s like walnut but lighter. But you can’t get butternut now. What I used to buy for $20 now costs $100. I can get $100 for a whale, but I if pay $100 for the wood, I’m working for nothing. Now I don’t mind working for cheap. I don’t do it to make money, but I at least want to pay for my

Volume 25, No. 9 materials.”

While much of Spinney’s work uses the natural color of the wood, when he needs something painted he turns to his in-house artist, his wife Juanita. She laughs as she talks about some of the requests she gets from Richard.

“Do you know how hard it is to paint something that’s not realistic,” she said.

“He had a fish and a porcelain face, and he puts the face on the body of a fish. I said, ‘How do I paint this thing?’ It blows my mind when he does that kind of crap.”

The couple laugh as Juanita holds the aforementioned sculpture. Spinney said they are working on a life-size swan for the show.

Spinney said he is a wood worker, not just a carver.

“I carve what I like to carve,” he said.

“If I see an idea and it gives me another idea, I carve it. Or produce it. It’s not all carving.”

One of the pieces that earned Spinney his solo show as winner of the 2018 BAL Membership Show is an Art Deco-style clock which is assembled rather than

carved.

Spinney said he plans to have door prizes during the show opening, and most of the works will be for sale. Spinney plans to have a sales table with items people can take home with them that night.

“All I’m doing is having fun,” he said.

So visit the show and take something home. Spinney needs the space. Don’t worry, he’ll make more.

Beaumont Art League is located at 2675 Gulf St. in Beaumont.

For more information, call 409-3476166, or visit the BAL Facebook page.

Richard Spinney’s wife Juanita, left, shows off one of the couple’s joint projects. Richard carves the wood, and Juanita paints the object. Spinney, wearing a hat he carved out of wood, below, spends several hours every day in his workshop.

June 2019 ISSUE • 13

Volume 25, No. 9

Above Board

Stephan Malick, TASI Board Chairman

The ArT STudio, inc. invites all members and community stakeholders to our annual State of The Studio gathering on Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This relaxed gathering is an opportunity at the start of The Studio’s 37th exhibition season — from its tenants, staff, volunteers and board of directors — to say “Thank You” for your continued support and to share future goals and events for the coming year and beyond.

There will be a short address at approximately 7:30 p.m. to highlight accomplishments from the past year and plans and projects we’re focusing on.

Membership and member involvement are great assets for TASi, and we wouldn’t be able to carry on without them. This social event provides a chance to tour facilities, visit with tenants and staff and really see the “nuts and bolts” aspect of The Studio that many people aren’t aware of or just can’t see.

The annual Tenants Show will provide the backdrop for the evening with light hors d’ oeurves, wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks.

Guests can expect to hear about final updates on harvey repairs, the main building roof capital project, membership goals and the exhibition season. The event follows the TASi board of directors annual summer strategic workshop that outlines and addresses The Studio’s short-term, mid-range and long-term plans — and we encourage and welcome community members giving input to the board and administrative staff regarding TASi and art endeavors in Southeast Texas.

This is also a great opportunity to get involved in volunteering for

TASi or TASi projects and to renew memberships. committees and projects for volunteers to consider: hospitality committee - plans and assists with exhibition food and beverage arrangements for the nine annual Studio shows.

Beaux Arts Ball – several sub-committees including theme decoration, food and beverage arrangement, sponsorship promotion and event Pr. Bandnites – decorations and set-up, monitoring the door with id’ing visitors and taking cover charge money. office and sales gallery assistance — setting up sales gallery displays, assisting with membership contacts, archiving visual record of TASi exhibitions and events.

Special events are held throughout the year and may include special live music events at venues other than the main studio location. We often participate in community art festivals, educational demonstrations and other community groups’ events.

Additionally, there are regular Work days, usually held one Saturday a month, tackling clean-up or special work projects. in the past, some of these work days have built projects such as fencing, decks, darkroom construction and equipment removal.

The Studio is always looking to broaden our class offerings and our instructor roster. Let us know if you’re interested in teaching a class or assisting with one. one of our primary goals is to regularly have classes and a consistent year-round schedule.

The Studio always welcomes your support, ideas and input.

Perkins Roofing Company, Inc. SUPPORTS THE ART STUDIO, INC.

1145 Lindbergh Drive Beaumont, TX 77707 409-842-2212 dperkins12@sbcglobal.net

SUPPORTS THE ART STUDIO, INC.

cueblue.com 713-357-6650 2024 Naomi St, Houston, TX 77054

14 • ISSUE June 2019

Volume 25, No. 9

Around & About

If you come across any interesting exhibitions, museums or other places on your travels, share them with us. Call 409-838-5393, or contact us through our website at www.artstudio.org. Be sure to include the location and dates of the subject, as well as any costs.

The ART MUSEUM OF SOUTHEAST TEXAS will exhibit GULF COAST LORE & LURE, featuring selections from AMSET’s permanent collection. Works in this exhibition will relate to the rich wonders of the Gulf Coast, whether through imagery or storytelling.

The exhibition runs from June 15 to Sept.

1, in the main galleries.

Modern and contemporary works by artists such as John Alexander, Derek Boshier, Keith Carter, Dixie Friend Gay, Melissa Miller, Richard Stout and many more will be on view, as well as a dynamic selection of regional folk art works.

Also on view will be a selection of recent acquisitions, giving visitors a window into the actively growing permanent collection.

AMSET will host a free reception June 21, 6-8 p.m. featuring a reading and gallery talk with Pete Gershon, author of “Collision: The Contemporary Art Scene in Houston, 19721985.”

Gershon is also the author of “Painting the Town Orange: The Stories Behind Houston’s Visionary Art Environments. From 1997 to 2013.” He was the founding publisher of “Signal to Noise: the Journal of Im-

VIEW from page 3 lectively than individually.

These are exciting times for The Studio.

We have been cleaning up the facility and cleaning up our administrative processes as well — updating our bylaws, contracts, membership responses, grant requests and studio activity. We are coordinating with area organizations and developing cooperative activities with other groups. Our visibility is increasing as people are taking another look at The Studio, what it now offers and what we could offer in the future.

As an established organization with a strong record of consistency and impactful programs, we, along with other diligent arts and cultural organizations, have changed the face of this community and have become a strong, vocal advocate for continued and in-

provised and Experimental Music.”

AMSET strives to provide education, inspiration and creative vision throughout Southeast Texas through unique collections, exhibitions and public programs. Over the years, AMSET’s permanent collection has grown from 200 to nearly 2,000 objects, focusing its collections on contemporary Texas artists and regional folk art.

AMSET is locate at 500 Main St. in downtown Beaumont.

For more information, visit www.amset.org or call 409-832-3432. _______________

mont.

For more information, call 409-347-6166, or visit the BAL Facebook page. _______________

The BEAUMONT ART LEAGUE will host its ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP SHOW opening 7-9 p.m. June 8 and running through June 28.

Submissions will be accepted in person 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 29-31.

Entry fees are $10 per entry with a limit of three entries per artist.

All entrants must be BAL members. Membership, which may be purchased at the time of submissions, begin at $35 for individuals.

Student memberships are $10.

BAL is located at 2675 Gulf St. in Beau-

ALCHEMY STUDIO AND GALLERY hosts CYCLICAL, an exhibition of paintings

by SIRENA LABURN, beginning June 8.

“The skeletons in my work emerged unexpectedly as I contemplated birth and death and upon reflecting on my experience of becoming a mother and the birth of my daughter,” LaBurn said. “Savoring the freshness of her new life led inevitably in contemplations of my own mortality and my daughter's. Recently, the skeletons have given way to ‘fortune wheels’ or ‘wheels of life.’ These wheels reflect the nature of life, chance and the circumstances of life and death. As my daughter grows, I am continuously flooded by thoughts and anxieties about her future.

With circular compositions, I attempt to find strong images which reflect on the cyclical nature of life.”

Alchemy is located at 2208 Post Office St. in Galveston.

For more information, call 409-766-7985, or visit the gallery’s Facebook page.

creased support for the arts.

We have created a new gallery at The Studio. In our lobby we began to exhibit part of our permanent collection given to us by Bob Willis, a quiet but strong supporter of the arts. On his passing, we received the ceramic collection and his library that constitutes fully 80 percent of our library holdings. We will run the permanent collection show for a few months and switch to a series of Pop Up exhibitions. With only two exhibitions open for individuals on our calendar, it is hard to get a spotlight on so many young artists who deserve to be presented. In response to a lack of pop-up opportunities, we decided we would serve our young artists with a chance to show what they are doing and where they are going with their art.

As I referred to above, without a show date or a chance to show, it is hard to push your creativity to its best limit. We will be

taking applications for the pop up starting in July. We may coordinate small group shows of two or three to maximize local artist exposure. All ages are welcome to apply. Details to follow.

Bob Willis gave us a great start on our library back in 1992, and we continue to add to our collection and you can help. We are happy to take any art books, instructional texts or history and non-art books on general history, science, industrial guides, etc.

Thanks to Louis Oliver who donated six large boxes of books on ceramics and other disciplines, as this offers a wide range of information that we so badly needed. I hope The Studio, one day, will have the largest art library in the region.

Thank you for supporting The Studio and its efforts to bring the arts to you and encourage creativity in everything you do. Art will be our salvation!

Mission Statement Founded in 1983, The Art Studio, Inc. is devoted to: providing opportunities for interaction between the public and the Southeast Texas community of artists; furnishing affordable studio space to originating artists of every medium; promoting cultural growth and diversity of all art forms in Southeast Texas; and providing art educational opportunities to everyone, of every age, regardless of income level, race, national origin, sex or religion.

PURPOSE The purpose of The Art Studio, Inc. is to (1) provide educational opportunities between the general public and the community of artists and (2) to offer sustained support for the artist by operating a nonprofit cooperative to provide studio space and exhibition space to working artists and crafts people, and to provide an area for group work sessions for those artists and crafts people to jointly offer their labor, ideas, and enthusiasm to each other.

GOALS 1. To present public exhibitions 2. To provide educational opportunities 3. To provide accessible equipment for artists 4. To provide peer feedback through association with other artists and crafts people OBJECTIVES 1. To present nine art exhibitions per year 2. To maintain equipment for artists in a safe working environment 3. To provide better access to artists for the public 4. To offer regularly scheduled adult and children’s classes 5. To develop and maintain public activities with all sectors of the community 6. To develop and maintain equipment to aid artists in their work 7. To provide a display retail outlet for artists 8. To expand programming and activities with increased facility space

Volume 25, No. 9

Thoughtcrime Submission Guidelines and Disclaimer ISSUE solicits and publishes the work of local authors. Poetry, short fiction, scholarly works and opinion pieces may be submitted for review. All works must be typed and may be sent to TASI by email or by messaging the ISSUE Facebook page.

The opinions expressed in “Thoughtcrime” do not necessarily reflect the opinions of TASI, its Board of Directors, ISSUE’s editorial staff, or donors to TASI. Send typed works to:

I’m Not Defeated

I’m at a point in my life when I shouldn’t have a care.

It’s getting to the point where life’s more than I can bear.

I’ve been dealing with folks that are selfish and conceited.

Because of gloom and despair, my joy was depleted.

I’ve searched near and far for a trusted earthly friend, wasting precious time on a road that has no end.

I’ve worked all my life to dwell in comfort and peace, and it’s an uphill battle to say the least.

I’ve felt that my existence has been for naught.

Wrong decision on my part denies success like a drought.

You would think that by now I would just give up and die.

But I was taught from day one, nothing beats a failure but a try.

God knows I’m a soldier and I never give up because He always supplies With a brimming cup.

He constantly comes through blessing me with what’s needed.

I can truly and honestly say Thanks to him, I’m not defeated!

Dorothy Sells Clover

Bewitched

ISSUE 720 Franklin St. Beaumont, TX 77701 or e-mail info@artstudio.org

Authors must submit a daytime telephone number and email along with all submissions. Pen names are acceptable, but authors must supply real names for verification. All printed works are protected by copyright. The author retains rights to any published work. ISSUE does not notify rejection by mail or telephone.

Love knows no bounds His touch is like a drug and I come alive “Mon Cheri,” he whispers to me into the dead of the night His voice is like a lullaby, a magnet luring me out of my slumber He desires something he cannot have...longing for attention.. pleading with his eyes In hopes that I give into the hunger I have for him I cannot deny the ache in my heart when I am away from him, yet I cannot pine over someone so complicated You crave my essence one day and fight it tomorrow Conflicted is what you are Anxious of the decision I have yet to make Will I be with you for eternity while fighting the demons within me... or can I fight this battle and set aside my love for another time?

Decisions must be made, closure needs to be addressed But what more can I do when I am a constant war with myself.

I do not want to run my lover away with my past, my imperfections my skeletons And yet I still crave him like a moth to a flame The question still remains... is he going to fight against our love or give in to addiction It is only a matter of time before the drug settles in or the darkness takes over.

Will I be your opioid or will I be what you fear the most...

Loving someone so much that it may break you Take me with you and be my dark butterfly in the night And I will be your raven in the daylight A protector, lover, my fix, my beloved You and I can no longer run away from the truth.

We are destined to be. Don’t run from a curse and a blessing.

BE MINE FOR ETERNITY. Nazarie Manning

June 2019 ISSUE • 15 Black Beauty

Every Black woman is Black Beauty.

I have curves and I’m still Black Beauty.

Black Beauty I might be the biggest or the skinniest person you’ve seen, but I’m still black beauty.

I might shave my head or dress differently, but that doesn’t chance my beauty.

The other BLACK women out there are BLACK BEAUTIES. We are BEAUTIFUL WOMEN.

Words can’t hurt me.

That’s why I’m black beauty.

You can break me down, but I can rebuild my black beauty.

Black Beauty.

Alivia Carey

The One

We sat in a shallow pool Near some stone buildings The day’s meeting over Relaxing amid quiet talk and muffled laughter Her eyes shone with a light I had never known I stared without shame soaking up the image Finally, I whispered my sudden desire To kiss her.

She responded in the best way possible Soft tender embrace Then we dressed, talking quietly Me fumbling for my card, and she hers We kissed again, more urgently Recalling that we had met before Somewhere, sometime My whole being burned with the fire Of the one true love Then I woke Cold And alone.

Steven R. Moore

720 Franklin, Beaumont, Texas 77701

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Permit #135 Beaumont, TX

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

INSIDE • TASI SUMMER ARTSKOOL • THOUGHTCRIME: MUSINGS FROM AREA POETS • GEEK’S GUIDE TO SUMMER • SPINNEY’S WOOD ART AT BAL

When you support The Art Studio with your membership, you receive ISSUE, Southeast Texas’ and Southwest Louisiana’s alternative press, as well as class schedules, invitations to opening receptions and various Studio functions.

Volunteers These people are the life blood of our organization.

WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT YOU! To volunteer, drop by The Art Studio, Inc., or call 409-838-5393.

Elizabeth Fontenot Bryan Castino Heather & Adam Butler Rhonda Rodman Sue Wright Rhonda McNally John Roberts Beau Dumesnil Karen Dumesnil Sheila Busceme Kailee Viator Stephan Malick Michelle Falgout Stacey Haynes Joe Winston John Fulbright Mark Jacobson Nathaniel Welch Gina Garcia Jack Hays Aslinn Garcia Paisley Polk Zoe Williams Rana Matthews Caroline Badon James King Madison Rose Stuckey Dawn S. Fischer Madison Bonds Chris Garcia Taylor VanDevender Jaycie Henderson Nathan West Kay O'Neal Olivia Busceme Chad Barrows

JOIN US

FOR ART OPENINGS ON THE FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

THIS MONTH:

OPENING RECEPTION IS JUNE 1, 7-10 P.M.

This project was funded in part by the B.A. & E.W. Steinhagen Benevolent Trust through the Southeast Texas Arts Council.

ISSUE

DISTRIBUTION POINTS

DOWNTOWN THE ART STUDIO, INC. 720 FRANKLIN ART MUSEUM OF SOUTHEAST TEXAS 500 MAIN BABE DIDRIKSON ZAHARIAS MUSEUM 1750 IH-10E BEAUMONT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 801 MAIN BEAUMONT ART LEAGUE (FAIRGROUNDS) 2675 GULF ST NEW YORK PIZZA & PASTA 790 NECHES SETAC 701 NORTH STREET, STE. 1 STARBUCKS EDISON PLAZA TEXAS ENERGY MUSEUM 600 MAIN SOUTH END/LAMAR UNIVERSITY CARLITO’S RESTAURANT 890 AMARILLO @ COLLEGE SUNRISE 2425 S 11TH SIGN INTERNATIONAL 7398 COLLEGE SWICEGOOD MUSIC CO. 3685 COLLEGE LU ART DEPARTMENT DISHMAN ART MUSEUM UNIVERSITY PRESS 202 CARL PARKER BUILDING OLD TOWN ALDEN HOUSE SALON 2415 CALDER ANNA’S MEXICAN BAKERY 2570 CALDER JAVELINA TATTOO 2510 CALDER CHAPAS TAMALES 2305 CALDER THE BREW SHOP 2410 CALDER HEADSTRONG HAIR STUDIO 215 18TH ST. JASON’S DELI 112 GATEWAY SHOP CNTR KATHARINE & CO. 1495 CALDER 2005 CALDER TACOS LA BAMBA RAO’S BAKERY 2596 CALDER

CENTRAL/WEST END BAR LOCAL 6358 PHELAN COLONNADE CENTER SMALL TOWN VINYL 6356 PHELAN COLONNADE CENTER BASIC FOODS 6220 PHELAN BEAUMONT COMMUNITY PLAYERS 4155 LAUREL BEAUMONT VISITORS BUREAU IH-10 COLORADO CANYON 6119 FOLSOM JERUSALEM CAFE 6260 PHELAN KATHARINE & CO. CARRY-OUT CUISINE 4455 CALDER GUITAR & BANJO STUDIO 4381 CALDER LOGON CAFE 3805 CALDER MADISON’S 4020 DOWLEN RED B4 BOOKS 4495 CALDER REED’S LAUNDRY 6025A PHELAN @ PEYTON ICON 6372 COLONNADE CENTER THIRSTY’S 229 DOWLEN PARKDALE RAO’S BAKERY 4440 DOWLEN ORANGE STARK MUSEUM OF ART 712 GREEN AVE.