Spotlight Artist Nov 2017: Alison Klein
Artist Bio:
Alison Klein is a multi-media artist who favors the feel and work-ability of oils. She is known to push the boundaries of color theory and still achieve a pleasing work.
Mrs. Klein's subject matter ranges from realistic still lifes, portraiture and bold abstracts with hidden messages. Whimsy, delight and thought are key components. She was taught by her late uncle, Cliff Kelly of Birmingham and inspired by her entire family of musicians, writers and fine artists, including Candace Wagner. She is most fond of the Old Masters.
Mrs. Klein currently takes private commissions by referral. She has consulted with Candace Wagner Studio of Hollywood, FL. for illustration and perspective and paints from her home studio.
In 2015, "Never Too Late (to do right)", a bold impressionist portrait of NEA Fellow and SC Blues musician, Drink Small, was featured at Tapp's Gallery and a giclee sold to benefit the artist's medical fund.
Alison is currently preparing for gallery exhibitions in downtown Columbia and Chapin and serves as Secretary for Crooked Creek Art League.
Alison is also a certified dog trainer and behaviorist who enjoys helping and painting people's pets. Alison, husband Ted and their three dogs live in Chapin.
Alison is recognized by the Crooked Creek Art League and the Chapin Chamber of Commerce as the Spotlight Artist of the Month for November 2017.
More About This Piece:
"Never Too Late(to do right)", depicts Bishopville, SC's own musical treasure, Blues Doctor, Drink Small - and named after his song. The reference photo was made at Le Jazz Cafe in Columbia in 2013 at a fundraiser for the Skip Pearson Foundation for Music Education.
Mr. Small is rarely seen without his dark glasses, woolen beret, and dental bridges. But on this night, he was belting out his blues without inhibition, exposed and vulnerable. The perspective and foreshortening of the instrument and human subject, squeezed into an overstuffed chair were a challenge. It was also difficult to capture an aesthetically attractive likeness, due to the ravages of age, disease and degeneration. The final result, after wrestling with the work over a few years- was acceptance of its imperfections and ultimately Tapp's Gallery display of a giclee and sale to benefit Mr. Small's medical Trust. A favored element is the strumming motion of the hand and vibration of strings in a metallic gold "swoosh".
The original is being retained for auction at a later date.
Alison can be reached HERE.
