ISSUE September 2017

THE ARTS MAGAZINE OF THE ART STUDIO, INC.

SEPTEMBER 2017

INSIDE: TASI’S NEW ADDITION, LIFE DRAWING, TOULOUSELAUTREC MUSEUM, AND MORE

TENANTS ON DISPLAY Page 8

PAUL KANE

Intrepid Artist and Adventurer Opens Oct. 21, 2017 • On view through June 2, 2018 FREE ADMISSION: Tuesdays – Saturdays, 9 am – 5 pm

Paul Kane contradicts the common stereotype of the reclusive artist. From 1845-1848, Kane camped and canoed across the North American continent, sketching in watercolor and oil paints along the way.

See over 100 works of art highlighting lakes, prairies, mountains, and coastal regions that Kane encountered, through his landscapes, portraits and journals from his travels.

starkmuseum.org

Paul Kane (1810-1871), Self-Portrait (detail), c. 1848, oil on paper, 8.125 x 6.6875 in., 31.78.197; Encampment, Winnipeg River, 1846, oil on paper, 8.062 x 13.375 in., 31.78.153; Bequests of H.J. Lutcher Stark, 1965, Stark Museum of Art, Orange, TX. Stark Museum of Art is a program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. ©2017 All Rights Reserved.

ISSUE Vol. 24, No. 1 Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Art Studio, Inc.

A View From The Top Greg Busceme, TASI Director

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Coughlan Copy Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stephan Malick Contributing Writers . . . . . . . . . Stephan Malick, . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caitlin Duerler, Jeff Dixon, Contributing Photographers . . . . John Fulbright, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Caitlin Duerler Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olivia Malick The Art Studio, Inc. Board of Directors Corporate President . . . . . . . . . . Greg Busceme Corporate Vice-President . . . . . Angela Scheibel Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Winston Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kim Armitage Members at Large . . . . . . Stephanie Chadwick, . . . . . . . . . Olivia Busceme, John Fulbright, . . . . . . . . Latasha Hagan, Stephan Malick, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Roberts Tenant Representative . . . . . Elizabeth Fontenot Assistant Director . . . . . . . . . . Elizabeth French

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 Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 “Sight/In-Sight” Call for Entries . . . . Page 6 Life Drawing Returns . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 7 The Tenants Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8 Viator at High Street Gallery . . . . . . Page 12 Around & About. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14 Thoughtcrime. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15 Cover photo of TASI tenants by John Fulbright

turning to Beaumont with his wonderful wife Beth who is studying to be a teacher. We look forward to their return and are happy for their advancement in this often tenuous world we live in. they have been a wonderful respite from that. short note on a longer story featured in this Issue. many have heard that we have acquired a new facility to add to our growing complex. thanks to all who were so important in making this a reality, especially the Board of the studio, Wayne stokely from neches Federal Credit union and realtor Jess prince who led us through the complex world of commercial real estate.

We lost another great artists this summer. ray Daniel, former curator at amset and frequent participant at the studio’s life drawing group passed away from an appar-

Happy summer everyone! altHougH the studio folks have been busy with making art and getting ready for exhibitions. even I have actually shaken off the dust from my tool shelf and created works based on an idea I’ve had for a long time. Hope you enjoy them and the many creative works on display from local artists at the upcoming lamar Faculty show and the tenant show at the studio, both opening this september.

Want to say a fond farewell for now to tenant James King. James works on one of the ships on the reserve Fleet in the port of port neches. He showed up last year and quickly became an integral part of this community. a loving giant, his kind demeanor and generous nature has won the hearts of us all. He is now going to school in his home state Washington to advance his career as a merchant marine and will be gone for a couple of years with the promise of one day re-

See VIEW on page 13

UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS AT THE ART STUDIO

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

The Annual TASI Tenants Show Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 2

Teresa Baker Solo Show Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 7

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4 • ISSUE September 2017

neW BuIlDIng opens tIme portal to tasI’s Future

Volume 24, No. 1

over tHe Course oF the art studio’s 34-year history, it has planted roots in several locations from the original location at the corner of neches and milam, downtown at Forsythe and orleans where the court annex Photos by now sits, and finally to the 720 Andy Franklin address.

Coughlan the studio has had its goldilocks syndrome of finding the place that fits right — and each of those locations suited its purpose and mission for the studio. now the studio has grown again — not moved or moving as some on social media have asked and wondered, but grown, by acquiring the adjacent property at 840 Franklin.

“We have been eyeing the property for a while,” greg Busceme, executive director, said.

Story by Stephan Malick

Greg Busceme, founder and director of The Art Studio, Inc., right, shows Stephan Malick around TASI’s latest building acquisition next to the existing property on Franklin Street in downtown Beaumont.

“We were familiar with the location through the previous owner, alfonso albacete and his ironworks, and when he decided to move, the tasI board and I began to think of ways to acquire the property.”

Busceme said the addition of the 6,000 sq. ft. property offers several advantages for the studio to continue in its mission of being among the most established and prevailing creative arts facilities in the area. “the proximity is a big factor because we have a constant need for consistent, safe parking for our exhibitions and events,” Busceme said. “the property is close to move-in ready with minimal work being required after the necessary occupancy inspections.”

Joe Winston, studio board president, said the acquisition is a testament that what the organization is doing is supported by the community because of the need of more resources.

“For over 30 years, the studio has been providing classes and exhibitions and we’ve grown together with the community,” Winston said.

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“We’re excited because we enjoy fostering the cultural growth of our home. We want to be able to provide as many artistic opportunities for all members of the community and this addition will help us do that.” some items already completed include a new bathroom, new plumbing, a lighting upgrade, as well as running gas lines and additional electrical outlets. However, there are two immediate projects remaining for occupancy Busceme said. “our two main items waiting completion is the installation a new fire alarm system and the construction of a ramp to comply with the americans with Disability act,” he said.

“We’re looking at several options to complete to complete installation of the fire alarm system. It’s about a $14,000 expense, and not one that can be completed easily or overnight, it’s a huge expense for us. We saved for a long time to purchase the building, and we need and plan to return to focusing on specific fundraising for this building.”

Busceme said he hopes to attract Boy scouts from the area to the ramp building as a prime opportunity for an eagle scout project. In addition, he said that the studio is interested in receiving fill-dirt, gravel or caliche to level parking areas on the new property.

“Hang on, watch, and join with us in the wonderful activities we’re going to continue to bring to southeast texas in our 34th season,” Winston said. “If you’re not a member, you should be.” the public is invited to meet and greet the tenant artists, board members and volunteers of the art studio, Inc. at its annual membership meeting Wednesday, sept. 13 starting at 7 p.m. “the annual membership meeting is a great opportunity for the public to tour the studio and to bring ideas out into the open for improving art culture in our community,” Winston said. “We are always looking for fresh ideas and committee members and volunteers to help develop projects and events. We’re here to serve the community and we want to hear from everyone.” the studio is located at 720 Franklin in downtown Beaumont and is open tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on saturday.

Greg Busceme, right, celebrates outside The Art Studio’s new building at 840 Franklin St. in downtown Beaumont. The existing studio building is seen in the background.

The acquisition used to be metalwork shop of Alfonso Albacete.

September 2017 ISSUE • 5

Open Call for Artists

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tasI november exhibition to marry music with visuals in unique show ‘sounD/InsIgHt,’ a musIC-inspired open invitation show is set for november. the show will diverse interpretations of compositions the art studio, Inc. is encouraging artists to create works for “sound/Insight,” an open invitational show inspired by a pair of original compositions by lamar university music majors. the show will open nov. 4 with a reception 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and run through nov.

24. submissions will be accepted in person noon to 5 p.m., oct. 31-nov. 2 at the art studio, 720 Franklin in downtown Beaumont. “the idea is for artists of any medium to listen to the pieces of music and create a work that is directly inspired by the music,” andy Coughlan, exhibition curator, said. “the show is open to everyone, but they can

only submit one piece.

“It will be fascinating to see the diversity of interpretations of the work,” Coughlan said the show is a collaboration with the lamar university music department’s composing instructor nick rissman, who organized the students submissions.

“I will reveal the names of the two student composers later,” Coughlan said. “I don’t want to put anything out there that will suggest how the work will look — I hope everyone’s imagination can fly unfettered by preconceptions.” the two compositions are embedded in the story at artstudio.org.

While all types of work, from painting to photography, from wood to clay, will be accepted, Coughlan said he expects a large number of participants, so be mindful of size. paintings and other 2-dimensional works should not exceed 36 inches, and 3D works

should not exceed 48 inches in height and 50 pounds in weight.

“I may have to reject the wall-size mural you drag down to the studio, but that is the only way a work will be rejected,” he said. “you bring, I’ll hang it — guaranteed.”

Coughlan said that although the show is not until november, he wants to give ample time for people to really absorb the music for their creations. “of course, I know a lot of artists — me included — may be rushing to finish right before deadline, but I want to make sure everyone has the chance to join in.” the gallery will be separated according to the piece chosen.

“It will be fascinating to see the wide variety of interpretations side by side,” Coughlan said.

For more information, email andycoughlan @hotmail.com.

The relationship between music and the visual arts is not new. The artist credited with “inventing” abstraction, Wassily Kandinsky, went to an Arnold Schoenberg concert in Munich in 1911 which changed his philosophy of art.

Maureen Buja, on interlude.hk, writes that, “The first painting (Kandinsky) made after the concert was “Impression III: Konzert” (Impression III: Concert). Kandinsky’s use of the word ‘impression’ referred to paintings that reproduce a direct expression of an internal nature.”

Kandinsky wrote to Schoenberg saying, “In your works, you have realized what I, albeit in uncertain form, have so greatly longed for in music.” In Schoenberg’s music all the parts were equally important, and equally saturated with hyper-expressivity.

Ivan Hewett, in the Telegraph, writes, “(Kandinsky), too, was aiming at maximum expressivity, which meant that nothing you see on the canvas can be relegated to a neutral background; everything is ‘up front.’”

Kandinsky created ten compositions over more than three decades from Composition l in 1907 to Composition X in 1939 (Composition VI is shown left). Gerard McBurney, in the Guardian, writes, “they fitted into a sequence of paintings that aspires to be, in musical terms, a cycle of ‘symphonies.’ The Improvisations are, on the whole, less monumental, more dramatic. One writer compared them to “concertos”. Kandinsky himself called them, ‘Suddenly created expressions of processes with an inner character.’”

The “Sound/In-Sight” show offers the opportunity to tap into the hidden Kandinsky in us all.

September 2017 ISSUE • 7

Volume 24, No. 1

Making One’s Mark

tuesDay lIFe DraWIng sessIons oFFer opportunIty For all sKIll levels

From tHe lasCaux Caves to the bathroom walls in the local public high school, mankind has always had the impetus to record his experiences through drawing.

We may not remember the first time we were handed a crayon and paper, but drawing is an important first step to learning how to write and communicate with others. However, by the time most people reach adulthood, they often claim that they cannot draw or have no ability beyond a stick figure. the art studio, Inc.’s life drawing sessions on tuesday evenings seek participants who are interested in brushing

Story and photos by Caitlin Duerler

up on their drawing skills and practicing making their mark. since last spring, port neches groves High school art teacher and independent artist Calvin Carter has moderated the classes — continuing a tradition that he benefitted from during his art studies at lamar university.

“I used to come to art studio life drawing back when I was in college at lamar,” he said. “We used to do our life drawing classes at school, and then we would come here and do it again if we had time. I was trying to get as much drawing time in as possible.” sessions, which are uninstructed, are popular with many art-school students because of the low-pressure environment and freedom to experiment, says lamar art and biology student Chloe milissa Beggs thompson of Beaumont. she also models for life drawing classes.

“It is a good place to play around with your own drawing abilities

A drawing by Mary Catherine Wilbur from the Aug, 15 life drawing session

Calvin Carter prepares to paint Chloe Milissa Beggs Thompson during The Art Studio’s life drawing session, Aug. 15. without the pressure of grades,” she said. “as a model and an artist, it really gives me perspective on what a model has to go through.” sessions are two hours and include a variety of short and long poses. professional and budding artists often experiment beyond charcoal and pencil, bringing watercolors, oil paints and ink to play around with during the session.

While life drawing is obviously a great way for artists to maintain their drawing practice, Carter says anyone can benefit from regular attendance and participation.

“I was always taught that life drawing was one of those keys in learning how to draw and do a bit of everything,” he said.

“I remember when I was in college, there were photographers who would take it and it really helped them see models differently and pose models in new ways. “there was even an architect who took the life drawing class, and he said that his work improved because he was practicing drawing the anatomy, muscles and bone structures and such — and it was so much more complicated than he thought. that experience carried over

to his architecture — he started to see things differently.” mary Catherine Wilbur, a lamar student and independent artist from Beaumont, emphasized the need to maintain her hand-eye coordination skills and drawing practice to improve as an artist. “one reason I come to life drawing is the practice and to be able to draw outside of school, and another reason is there is a lot more freedom to do what you want with the observations you get,” she said. “I am working in pen and ink so I can work on making a more confident line — instead of scratching it out, just making the mark.”

Comparable classes in bigger cities often cost three times as much as the $5 drop in fee at tasI, Carter said.

“It is really special to have this in southeast texas and I hope other people will utilize this resource and get to draw while meeting other people from the art community,” he said. “everyone who comes here is at all different levels — no one is trying to impress or intimidate.” sessions meet on tuesday evenings from 6-8 p.m.

For more information, check out the life drawing Facebook page.

8 • ISSUE September 2017

Volume 24, No. 1

A few of The Art Studio, Inc. tenants gather in front of TASI’s new annex.

Photo by John Fulbright

An invitation to our house tasI tenants show, traditional exhibition season opener, set for sept. 2

soutHeast texans WIll get a chance to see the works of local artists at an annual event that has become a tradition in the local arts community. the art studio, Inc.’s annual tenants show debuts sept. 2 with a free reception from 7-10 p.m. the focus of the tenants show is to give the artists who work at tasI a chance to show the community what they’ve been working on and who they have become as artists. It’s an art studio tradition and it means different things to different tenants.

Story by Jeff Dixon

Yolanda Perez

ISSUE photo by Andy Coughlan

“the tenant show is probably my favorite yearly event here because I get to see everything everyone else has been working on the way they want it to be seen — it’s finished and it’s here,” tenant gina garcia said. the tenant artists at the studio include maurice abelman, Barbara allamon, Karen Dumesnil, sue Wright, rhonda rodman, sandra laurette, suzanne garrett, rhonda mcnally, yolanda perez, stephen Derrick Jr., andy Coughlan, madisan rose stuckey, renee mcClain, alex murphy, Julia rutledge, Kailee viator, elizabeth Fontenot, Beau Dumesnil, Bill Kujawski,

Maurice Abelman, Barbara Allamon, Karen Dumesnil, Sue Wright, Rhonda Rodman, Sandra Laurette, Suzanne Garrett, Rhonda McNally, Yolanda Perez, Stephen Derrick Jr., Andy Coughlan, Madisan Rose Stuckey,

September 2017 ISSUE • 9

Volume 24, No. 1 garcia, nathan Jones, greg Busceme,elizabeth French, neal pitak, and Darkroom Friends J.Winston, J. Fulbright. one of the tenants eager to show off what she’s been working on is Barbara allamon. allamon has been a tenant at the art studio for a few years now, ever since finishing a ceramics class taught by greg Busceme.

“I took a class from greg a few years ago and I just fell in love with ceramics,” she said. “I can’t tell you what inspires me or where it comes from, I just start working with it and the piece evolves. It’s beautiful.”

For Busceme, the show is so much more than just another exhibit. “artists need to exhibit work to maintain their professionalism in the art field,” he said. “the public needs to see the progress of these artists to better recognize the importance of the preservation of the creative act.

“It is much the same as when a new building goes up or a new business opens. We feel the sense that things are progressing rather than being stagnant. this is our part of that concept.

During the reception attendees will be able to tour the studio space and see where the tenants create their pieces.

Busceme said the tenants show — and really every show they put together at the studio — is all about keeping the community involved in the process. “our membership shows and alternative shows serve the same objective but include the community directly to give everyone who creates an active role in this endeavor — everyone has a part to play in art,” he said. tenant elizabeth Fontenot said the show acts as a sort of reunion for her fellow artists. “throughout the year, and especially around summer time, everyone is off doing their own thing. people are going on vacation or traveling to

Stephen Derrick works the wheel in advance of the Tenants Show which opens Sept. 2

“

To have it up on a gallery wall is a challenge and validation of self esteem.

”

see family and friends,” she said. “most of the tenants participate in the show, so it’s an opportunity to reconnect with the people working around you and see what’s been in-

fluencing their work.” yolanda perez said she is looking forward to the unique opportunity the tenants show provides her in exhibiting her ceramics. “this show pushes me to make new art work to share with the community at large (as well as) with my fellow tenants,” she said. “It gives me a opportunity to safely display my experimental and delicate ceramic work which I don’t have much of an opportunity to show in other venues.”

For Kailee viator it’s the opportunities the show offers the next generation of local artists.

ISSUE photo by Andy Coughlan

“We have a couple of newer tenants who are just starting to have people look at their work,” she said. “to have it up on a gallery wall is a challenge and validation of self esteem. that’s such a wonderful thing.” the art studio, Inc. is located at 720 Franklin in downtown Beaumont. exhibitions are held nine time a year, with opening receptions held the first saturday of each month from september through June, except for January.

For more information, call 409838-5393, visit the wbbsite at www.artstudio.org, or on Facebook.

Renee McClain, Alex Murphy, Julia Rutledge, Kailee Viator, Elizabeth Fontenot, Beau Dumesnil, Bill Kujawski, Gina Garcia, Nathan Jones, Greg Busceme, Elizabeth French, Neal Pitak, J.Winston, J. Fulbright

10 • ISSUE September 2017

Volume 24, No. 1

Henri at home in Albi alBI, France — the small town of albi, located some 85 km northwest of toulouse in the occitanie region of southern France, may not be the first name of the list when one thinks of a gaulic vacation, but if one is an art lover at all, it should be. albi’s most famous son is Henri de toulouse-lautrec and the town’s museum in his name is nothing short of magnificent. It is one of the best single-artist museums I have seen.

Story and photos by Andy Coughlan

Among the featured pieces in the Musée Toulouse-Lautrec in Albi, France, is the painting and a pastel drawing, above, of “In the Salon at the Rue des Moulons.”

located on the tarn river, albi is a world heritage site with a population of just under 50,000. the first human settlement there was in the Bronze age (3,000-600 B.C.) and it has been a prominent town in the region since the roman’s came in 51 B.C., so there is much to see and do.

But it is the musée toulouse-lautrec that is the town’s crown jewel. In 1876, historian emile Jolibois initiated the establishment of a museum in albi. originally in the city hall, it transferred to the Hotel rochegarde, a mansion that had been left to the city. toulouse-lautrec, in 1976, 12year-old Henri wrote to his mother, “I should be glad to devise a decorative scheme for rochegarde — it would be fun to be present through my paintings down there where I used to be a young levite in short trousers.” little did he know.

the museum was no different from any other small-town museum, but in the years following his death, toulouse-lautrec’s fame grew and in 1920, his mother donated the family’s entire collection to the city of albi. even more amazingly, his close friends honored Henri’s mother’s wishes and donated many of their own holdings. these donations form the foundation of the museum, and the years that followed saw the collection grow through a series of acquisitions. the museum’s catalog offers a fine history that is a fascinating read.

In 2001, funds were secured to make the museum what it is today. It is a wonderful marriage of modern exhibition techniques and historical architecture. the collection alone would make it magnificent, but the display and information take the viewer on a journey through the life of

Volume 24, No. 1 a truly innovative artist.

Henri marie raymond de toulouse-lautrecmonfa was born in 1864. His aristocratic parents were first cousins and it is believed that generations of inbreeding contributed to a genetic disorder which left Henri with brittle bones. In two separate accidents he broke first his left leg then his right, and they stopped growing at only 5-feet 1-inch tall. unable to enjoy the typical outdoor pursuits of his class, he turned to art. the museum covers the artist’s life chronologically, including early drawings and paintings that reveal his talents. “artilleryman saddling His Horse” shows the 15-year-old’s skills. the brushstrokes are expressive and the image crackles with vibrancy. there are already elements of his trademark fluid line work. much of the early pieces reflect the Impressionist painters who were gaining notoriety in paris, especially “Countess a. de toulouse-lautrec in the Drawing room at the Chateau de malromé” from 1886-87.

But it is in montmartre that toulouse-lautrec found his artistic voice, among the prostitutes and dance girls. His art teachers had atelier’s there, and he moved there from his mother’s paris home in 1884. like Honoré Daumier in the late 1700s, and edouard manet and Claude monet whom he much respected, Henri was inspired by the demi-monde — those on the fringes of respectable society — and decided his art should reflect everyday life. the gallery is full of magnificent drawings and painted sketches that capture the men and women of the parisian nightlife. the impulsive sketches are full of life and excitement. they are fast capturing moments that are quickly gone. a spectacular example is “Woman putting on he stockings” from 1894. rendered with oil on cardboard, it is both spontaneous and measured, with only a few areas covered. yet what more need to be revealed with more than these few quick strokes. toulouselautrec’s passion for these people is obvious. the star of the museum is in two parts. there are two versions, side by side, of “In the salon at the rue des moulons” —an oil on canvas 52-inches wide and 43 inches deep, and a full-size pastel sketch. the women of the night wait patiently for their next encounter. there is a stillness to the figures — they are women at work, making their way. there is no judgment from the artist. these women are his friends and he records them accordingly, with dignity. the painting is brilliant, but the sketch more than holds its own and gives a glimpse into the artist’s process. the colors in the sketch are vibrant and seem to glow. the museum covers all aspects of his career, including the graphic design work. His lithographs are hung with the original drawings nearby, including several show posters featuring the cabaret artist aristide Bruant and, of course, Jane avril, probably his most recognizable image. seeing these images together spotlights his understanding of the differ-

ent needs of graphic design, as well as the influence of Japanese prints. His work was innovative and pushed the artistic potential of poster design.

Henri was teased about his height and sought solace in drink and women. In 1899, he was committed to a sanitarium in neuilly for alcoholism. after his release, his style change, becoming less linear and using thicker paint, as in his last major work, “an examination at the Faculty of medicine.” the color, paint application and exaggerated hands give the painting an expressionistic feel.

Henri de toulouse lautrec died on sept. 9, 1902. after his death, his mother continued to promote his work and the museum now holds the largest collection of his work in the world. the beauty of the grounds, overlooking the river tarn and the town itself, barely compare with the beauty to be found inside the museum. toulouselautrec was truly a genius, it is not too cliché to add the tortured prefix, but in his short life he revolutionized the genre of graphic design, while taking a deserved place in the pantheon of great painters. the museum that bears his name is equally deserving of a view. the musée toulouse-lautrec is open every day and admission is 8 euros.

The Musée Toulouse-Lautrec features a comprehensive collection of the artist’s work including a portrait of his mother, “Countess A. de ToulouseLautrec in the Drawing Room at the Chateau de Malromé,” right, from 1886-87, and examples of his graphic design work, below.

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High Street Gallery to host Viator’s art installation, Sept. 15 HIgH street gallery WIll host an art installation

by Kailee viator, 7-10 p.m., sept. 15. the gallery is located in victoria House, 2110 victoria st. in Beaumont. the exhibition is titled "Flora and Fauna" and is described as "an installation which transforms High street gallery into an indoor/outdoor mystical wonderland designed to mythically describe life's origins and those of the world we inhabit."

Kailee viator is a vidor native who received a Bachelor of Fine arts in studio art from lamar university in 2013. she said this show, which incorporates a multitude of media as well as live models, is unlike her previous work. "most of the local art community know my work for my paintings, drawings, and few for my ceramic sculpture work. While I am still working a similar conceptual pattern, I think that my work has softened exponentially," viator said. "there is still the darkness I believe I am known for, but with a much more subtle, feminine approach. Decayed animal skulls meet grandmother's doilies, giant Wolf spiders accompanied by Baby's Breath....

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"the room is lit by lanterns and tealights, warmly peeking out from behind folds of pink tissue paper reminiscent of the primordial womb. amidst a woodland backdrop and floral decorum sits a goddess figure bathed in milk and honey. egg cartons cascade from the ceiling, sprinkled with trinkets of life and death: tiny animal bones, dried flowers, and bird feathers, all encapsulated by beeswax." she is inspired by artists like sherry owens, sharon Kopriva and ann Wood, and is also influenced by others in her own community, such as fellow artist amanda Berry. “the viewer should contemplate the symbolic language of spirituality, as well as the great question: 'Which came first: the chicken or the egg?'” she said. entry is free and open to the public. refreshments are provided at the reception on sept. 15. a pared-down version of the installation will be on view again during the evenings of sept. 20 and 24.

For more information, email victoria housetx@gmail.com, or visit the High street gallery Facebook page.

SUPPORTS THE ART STUDIO, INC.

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

September 2017 ISSUE • 13

Volume 24, No. 1

VIEW from page 3 ent heart attack at the age of 48. He was a diligent curator and an excellent artist. He left us far too soon. our hearts go out to his family and friends. thanks to all the volunteers that have helped us this summer. We have had a lot of volunteer days because of the property purchase and an attempt to put some order to the mass of accumulated materials that seems to multiply over night. I encourage anyone to get involved in the many activities we have at any given time. there is always a place for you and we are happy for the help. speaking of volunteers, I also would like to thank our new board members for willingly joining forces with us to advance the studio’s agenda. sara tuell, a mobil oil mechanical engineer is new to Beaumont, and Joanna Hyatt is a recent faculty member at lamar art department as professor of art education. realtor Jess prince as been very involved with the mural project between CvB and the art studio, and John rollins, formerly from amset now working for united Way,

has been a staunch supporter of the arts for many years. latasha Hagan has been on the board for a few months now and is heading up some events and working sound at our Band nite events. two board members have stepped off the board after years of dedicated service. We want to thank sheila Busceme and elizabeth Fontenot for serving on the board and making a difference in the life of the studio. although no longer on the board both will continue to make contributions to the advancement of the studio’s cause. We thank you both for your service.

In a note to show that small acts sometime grow beyond our expectations, I was sent an email from lamar university drawing professor Chris troutman from Japan where he frequently visits for exhibitions and workshops. It seems he was at Beppu City, which has been established many years ago as Beaumont’s sister City by the city and other development organizations somewhere around 1987-86. Chris heard a story that has moved from ear to ear over the past 30-plus years.

When Beppu City officials came to Beaumont for a conference and to honor them, my then-wife ange and I thought it would be a good idea, after quite a few

drinks, of course, to take some of the ambassadors on an unofficial trip to show them our facility at 1076 neches at milam (now a parking lot for eastam Forge).

We commandeered a hotel van and driver and took about eight visitors and a translator to the art studio Inc, in deep, dark downtown. We hung out for a while and discussed the world of ceramics and other subjects and consequently went back to the hotel. Forward 2017, troutman hears a sketchy story about some guy in Beaumont who took a group to an artist space on their first visit to Beaumont. In Chris’s words, a story of, and I quote, legend, that has been passed on through the years about the downtown adventure. I was ecstatic!

Consequently, Chris and I are now working on an exchange show between the studio and Beppu City artists slated for october or november of 2020. somehow all things come together. Had Chris and his lovely family had not come to Beaumont, had his wife not come from that region of Japan, and had we not had the youthful gumption to take that chance this story would never have been told. But it has and that is absolutely amazing! I love my world.

See a Side of The West You’ve Never Seen Before...

View more than 80 works of art and related film content highlighting the changing brands, or imagery of violence, beauty and celebration of the American West.

On View through Sept. 9, 2017

712 Green Ave., Orange, TX • starkmuseum.org

Organized by the Brigham Young University Museum of Art and the Stark Museum of Art, and made possible in part by generous grants from the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation, the Charles Redd Center for Western Studies, and the Utah Division of Arts & Museums.

14 • ISSUE September 2017

Volume 24, No. 1

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 web site at www.artstudio.org. Be sure to include the location and dates of the subject, as well as any costs.

ADULT ADVENTURES IN CLAY will be held saturdays at THE ART STUDIO, INC., 10 a.m. to noon, beginning sept.

9 and concluding oct. 7. the class is five saturdays of learning hand building, glaze and firing techniques. all material included. $125 per person, 18 and up. a fun and productive introductions to the joys of ceramics. great for the rank beginner. Instructor: greg Busceme, mFa. tasI is located at 720 Franklin in Beaumont. Call 409-838-5393 for more information. __________

the ART MUSEUM OF SOUTHEAST TEXAS will host the 30TH ANNIVERSARY GALA: A PEARLESCENT EVENING, 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., sept. 8, at the event Centre.

Cocktail hour, with appetizers, begins at 6:30 p.m., featuring the signature drink, thai pearl Cocktail. Fine dining by Bando’s Catering will be served at 7:30 p.m. introducing delectable entrees and pearl-themed desserts. silent and live auctions featuring themed parties and art selections will keep partygoers enticed with dancing to follow. sharon montgomery and the golden triangle all-stars will provide music. attire is black tie; guests are encouraged to don their pearls. the gala will honor texas artist and Beaumont native, richard stout and amset Board presidents from the past decade.

Individual seats are $250. table reservations range from $1,600 to $15,000 and can seat up to 10 guests. top table packages include original prints by honored artist, richard stout, vIp access to a private cocktail event previewing the opening reception of stout’s work that will be on view at amset, signed monographs by the artist, and tableside champagne. all proceeds benefit amset exhibitions and educational programs.

For more information and reservations, visit amset.org or call 409-832-3432. __________

THE ART STUDIO, INC. NEW AND RETURNING MEMBERS

Individual

multi-media contemporary artist DARRELL TROPPY, most notable for his work at the Carrousel eastern and Western International art exhibit at the louvre-paris, France, will present an art exhibit for FINDER’S FAYRE’s Fall show series, “Class.” the exhibit runs sept. 7 through oct. 5. troppy will make an appearance for a meet and greet on opening and closing nights, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. troppy’s collection will feature the best of his multi-layered, encaustic visions. this collection is elegant and eclectic,; featuring a variety of genre-art, still-life and abstract works.

Inspired, by the age of Kings and Queens, Darrell compels his subjects to address today’s age of gender equality. “(art’s) the one thing that I know that has never left me,” troppy said. “If you locked me up I would find a way to do something artistic, perhaps paint on the floor? It never leaves you; you’d become less whole. I think every artist experiences this feeling more than once in their life. you pray, you Wish, and you Hope that feeling never leaves you, the passion that wakes you, the driving force, and the reason you exist.

Finder’s Fayre is located in the mildred Buildin on the corner of Calder avenue and mlK parkway in Beaumont.

For more, visit wwwfindersfayre.com.

Charles Celestine Dorothy Clover marnie Custer John garcia Charles gierman laurie gordon glenn Hayes roxanne a. Hayes Betty a Iles shannon Jordan rainey Knox Family/Group

William & priscilla Kujawski letitia rogers & michael payne lana & Chris portner rodney & sandra price terrell Woosley Friend/Business

Karen Corwin richard & sandra laurette Sustaining

lee & scott mann Patron:

richard a. Hayes & marilyn manson-Hayes

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 24, No. 1

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:

The Casualties of War they emerge on a grassy field, armed for battle

Determination, and excitement gleams in their eyes a command is barked, a signal is given… they commence…dust flies ripped shirts

Jammed fingers skinned knees grass stains

Bruised elbows Busted lips

stumped toes Bloody noses Black eyes

a command to cease and desist is ordered Dust settles… recess over!

Dorothy Sells Clover Cultural Eclipse When ancient man looked up into the sky

and saw the sun being devoured by the moon Was he afraid of the gods’ punishment?

or like the shadow that darkens the orange oval today Did he simply resist and wait and hope, unsure, if the light ever would return?

Andy Coughlan

ISSUE, 720 Franklin, 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.

A Traffic Fatality

(Near the Central Mosque in Jubail) Five kingdoms fall in prophesy.

the number here is unimportant,

for what the shrouded girl can see

is far more than we dared measure. a sacred Chevrolet four-door has kissed the virgin hard,

and not the swelling clot before

her maidenhead, but brain has soaked the veil, still hiding life inside.

Her eyes (so shaded, like a courtesan’s)

see no saints appear: mohammed tried.

Who calls her now? the magnavox? a blank diskette? a royal Crown

commercial? Car horns heralding the end bring forth the children of the town.

they stumble dumb to see her blacked, duffel-bagged body staring from

the chastening chrome that didn’t even

dent when the message of god’s Kingdom fell down upon them near the mosque.

Jesse Doiron

September 2017 ISSUE • 15 Untitled make me laugh make me cry

But in that good way that a tear speaks

more than words can say uplift my heart

pluck my strings

explore what notes I have to offer-

the beauty that makes me sing

But don't do any of those things Don't do anything at all

unless your intentions are true and I can see and feel

the writing on the wall

not written in chalk or pencil But in permanent ink Feel the energy

purple and white

ebb and flow between two souls like a radio link

so make me laugh make me cry

make me contemplate the how and why

But only if you can write

From a place it easily flows

like a new seed planted and watered Intended only for it to grow.

Chrissie Mouton Into the Light

Flapping flags in a park Does not take your dishonor out of the dark

When your document mentions slavery more times than anything else, that is not state’s rights or bravery We are better, and we are bright We are correct when we bring you Into the light Stephan Malick

720 Franklin, Beaumont, Texas 77701

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

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

INSIDE • THE TENANTS SHOW • THOUGHTCRIME: MUSINGS FROM AREA POETS • TASI EXPANSION • MUSEE TOULOUSE-LAUTREC

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 terri Fox michelle Falgout stacey Haynes Joe Winston John Fulbright mark Jacobson nathaniel Welch gina garcia Jack Hays tyler Hargraves aslinn garcia paisley polk Zoe Williams rana matthews Caroline Badon David granitz latasha Hagan 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:

THE TENANTS SHOW

OPENING RECEPTION IS SEPTEMBER 2, 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

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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 Jerusalem HooKaH CaFé 3035 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 Betty smItH CreatIve WorKs 2485 CalDer tHe BreW sHop 2410 CalDer Jason’s DelI 112 gateWay sHop Cntr KatHarIne & Co. 1495 CalDer taCos la BamBa 2005 CalDer 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 KatHarIne & Co. Carry-out CuIsIne 4455 CalDer guItar & BanJo stuDIo 4381 CalDer logon CaFe 3805 CalDer 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.