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Shannon Stamey

Premiere Party June 11, 2009 from 5:30- 7:00pm at the offices of Up & Coming Weekly, 208 Rowan Street. Join us for an opening reception with light hors d'oeuvres and beverages courtesy of Locks Creek Seafood Grill.

Exhibition Dates June 12th – August 30th, 2009

More information:
                As soon as Shannon was old enough to shove crayons in his mouth, his fixation with art began. Born in a rural town outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, Shannon was awed by his surroundings, explaining the heavy prevalence of celestial and natural bodies in his work. A morbid romantic, his pieces delight in a whimsical way, yet teeter into sardonity. Comforting in their often nightmarish view, the works speak to children of all ages. Receiving no formal training, he has taught himself through the careful study of artists Thomas Wilmer Dewing, Maxfield Parrish, Arthur Rackham, Stephen Gammell, and the more contemporary visionary of Maurice Sendak, Tim Burton, and Gris Grimly.  A large portion of his work focuses on the charm of turn-of-the-century ads, while other works focus on re-envisioning classic tales. Though he takes a modern approach to art by using colored pencils and oil on paper, an appreciation for a more antiquated time is seen not only in his subject, but also in the finish given to the work—done with deckling and often times staining. This meticulous process creates a finished product that leaves a lasting impression. Visit his website here.

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Paul Hill - Sculptor
June 08-June 09

Paul Hill lives and works in Wilmington, NC., where He maintains Paul Hill Sculpture Studios.

“I am a metal sculptor who works primarily in steel, stainless steel, bronze and copper. I prefer to engage the direct-metal approach to sculpture. In this particular discipline of work, steel, found objects, etc., are added, piece-by-piece, moving the sculpture to its final form. Working this way lets me and the work become spontaneous, exciting and boundless.”