share the artful vibe ! Trackside studios 30 artists~studios~gallery visit us at the studio stroll nov 14-15 meet the artists watch the demos see new works 375 depot st tracksidestudios375.com
NORTH ASHEVILLE GROVEWOOD GALLERY 3D Fine Crafts \"Conversation Chair #3\" by Eric Cannizzaro, inspired by Shaker and Windsor chairs.• Three-seat bench with live-edge• Cherry seat, hardwood spindles, and legs, teal green milk paint Dimensions: 38.5″ H x 69.5″ W x 26.75″ D — $4,500 Shop American Handmade this November at Grovewood Gallery T ucked away amid towering pine trees adjacent to The Omni Grove Park Inn is one of Asheville’s hidden gems. Known today as Grovewood Village, this historic site once housed the weaving and woodworking operations of Biltmore Industries, a force in American craft that was originally backed by Edith Vanderbilt. Established in 1992, Grovewood Gallery is nationally recognized for its dedication to fine American art and craft. Here you’ll discover 9,000 square feet of artisan-made jewelry, textiles, pottery, glass and much more, contributed by over 400 artists and craftspeople from across the United States. VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 53
GROVEWOOD GALLERY Blackbeard Pirate Cup Ahoy, the perfect drinking vessel! Available in 6 designs, these artisan- crafted pirate cups by Hog Hill Pottery are a customer favorite. Hog Hill Pottery 100% American-Made in Vale, NC 12-ounce ceramic cup Lead-free glaze Dimensions: 4″ H x 3.25″ D $28 \"Scenic Vases\" by Hog Hill Pottery inspired by the motifs of the Arts and Crafts movement. Each vase is individually hand-thrown and painted. Small – 6″ H x 3.5″ D, Medium – 9″ H x 4.5″ D, Large – 14″ H x 5.5″ D $132 - $310 54 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
\"Gaggling Geese\" by Patricia Cotterill GROVEWOOD GALLERY Wrapped canvas oil painting. Dimensions: 18″ H x 18″ W NBC purchased three of Patricia’s paintings for the set of the TV series “Parenthood,” and HGTV’s “Urban Oasis” $625 \"Craggy Garden Hike\" by Cynthia Wilson Acrylic painting on canvas Dimensions: 24″ H x 18″ W $1,300 VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 55
GROVEWOOD GALLERY Grazing Mare Sculpture by Scott Nelles 100% American-Made in Williamsburg, Michigan Sand-casted bronze Dimensions: 4” H x 1.5” W x 7” L Scott Nelles (pronounced nell-ess) has worked in cast bronze for over three decades. His work displays a childlike playfulness, elegant design and superb control of his medium. In his foundry and studio located in northern Michigan, he designs and creates everything from decorative art to toys. Using the timeless methods of sand-casting and hand- finishing, Nelles creates objects of beauty, strength and whimsy. $88 Wenge and sycamore cabinet with 2 adjustable shelves by Neil Carroll Dimensions: 61″ H x 21″ W x 18″ D $4,200 56 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
Robot coin bank by Scott Nelles. GROVEWOOD GALLERY Bob the Robot is here to help you save for a rainy day! This coin bank was handcrafted by Scott Nelles using the sand-casting technique. The robot’s arms and legs are secured by socket head screws and can be positioned as you like. His back has a slot for your coins and cash. One screw opens him up to unleash your riches. 100% American-Made in Williamsburg, Michigan. Sand-casted aluminum and bronze Dimensions: 11.75” H x 7″ W x 2.25″ D $275 Sculpted wood teapot by Jim Christiansen Maple, pear, and acrylic paint Dimensions: 9” H x 8” W x 4” D $2,200 VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 57
GROVEWOOD GALLERY Moby Dick Platter by Anja Bartels 111 Grovewood Rd Ste 2, Asheville, NC This Moby Dick platter is handmade by Asheville-based artist Anja Bartels. Anja’s nautical (828) 253-7651 surface designs are inspired by her love of the ocean and her childhood memories of growing COVID-19 Hours up in a port city on the North Sea. Wednesday – Sunday: 10 – 5pm This one-of-a-kind porcelain platter is hand-painted with a black underglaze which is grovewood.com/grovewood-gallery/ scraped away (using a technique called sgraffito) to reveal the white color of the porcelain underneath. The ship decals are made from real gold, so handwashing is recommended. 100% American-Made in Asheville, NC • One-of-a-kind porcelain platter • Handwashing recommended • Dimensions: 11.5″ H x 15″ W x 1″ D $250 58 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
“The pieces look beautiful and were much more affordable than online or through Michael’s.” — S.G., ASHEVILLE – 6 CPFs on staff – 365 Merrimon Ave • 225.3117 • blackbirdframe.com more than any other shop in the U.S.
ART TALK Pastels \"Light Whisperer\" 27x40 inches pastel on Uart board PASTEL — WHAT IT IS & WHAT IT ISN'T | By Deborah Squier PASTEL, PASTELLO, PASTILLE. WHAT DO THESE TERMS HAVE IN COMMON? THEY ARE ALL REFERRING TO PASTEL, A MEDIUM USED FOR DRAWING AND PAINTING THAT HAS BEEN AROUND SINCE THE 1500'S. THE ITALIAN TERM, PASTELLO, MEANS \"LITTLE BREADROLL\" REFERRING TO THE SHAPE OF THE PASTEL. O ver the years, many people extraordinary medium, and it mentoring sessions and pastel have asked me what pastel seems unlimited potential for workshops. I hope you enjoy this is. I hope the following will creative expression. If you still summary of what pastel is and what clarify some of those questions have questions, feel free to contact it isn't. and misconceptions about this me. Also, I am available for private Pastels are the most permanent 60 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
Here are some pastels made by Paul deMarrais. Keeping the numbers is an easy and covient way to keep track of my colors. This pure pigment is combined with a binder to hold the pigment together. The powdered pigment and the binder (usually gum arabic or tragacanth) make up the pastel stick. of all media when used alone as a are used in pastels, oil paints, brilliant for centuries. Since they ART TALK with DEBORAH SQUIER mixture of pure powdered pigment. and watercolors are all the same. are virtually dry pigment with no This pure pigment is combined Pigments are derived from organic added oil binder, there is little to no with a binder to hold the pigment sources, such as minerals and oxidation, yellowing, expansion, or together. The powdered pigment oxides and plant and animal contraction of the medium on the and the binder (usually gum substances, and more recently, paper's surface. arabic or tragacanth) make up the from synthetic materials. The pastel stick. Pastels are available difference in the medium is the All pigments, however, when in varying degrees of hardness, liquifying agent used to carry exposed to direct sunlight, will depending on the ratio of ground or bind the pigment. Oil paints suffer varying degrees of fading. pigment to binder. The softer the combine various plant oils, and Oils tend to yellow and darken over pastel, the less binder it contains. watercolors are made primarily time, changing the original color The harder the pastel, the more with pigment, water, and a binder and brilliance of the pigments. binder it has. such as gum arabic. Varnish also alters the surface of oil paintings. Pastels, on the other Pastels come in all shapes and Advantages of Pastel: hand, retain their original hues and colors, glorious, brilliant colors brilliance. to dazzle the seasoned artist and The advantage of pastel is that, as the beginner. The pigments that a dry medium, the colors remain VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 61
Here I am teaching a Pastel Painting Plein Air class. ART TALK with DEBORAH SQUIER Deborah Squier Practitioners of Pastel: Present-day enthusiasts include for more texture. There is also a wide Fernando Botero, Frances Clemente, assortment of pastel papers as well Early practitioners of pastel include Daniel Greene, the late Elizabeth as sanded papers and boards. Or Leonardo da Vinci in 1495, followed Mowry, and Wolf Kahn. the artist may choose to make their by Maurice Quentin do La Tour, substrates using acid-free papers, Rosalba Carriera in1703, and Jean Pastel is a modern and post- rag mats, panels, or ACM panels. The Baptiste Simeon Chardin 1771. All modern medium, which has proven ability to scumble, glaze, and layer three 18th Century painters were its absolute archival reliability. It pastel allows for highly developed recognized and admired for their allows for broad experimentation painting techniques. extraordinary works in pastel. and can be used to draw, sketch, and paint. When used to fully cover What Pastel is Not: Their paintings are on view in the ground or support, the artwork museums both in Europe and is called a painting. When it is used Pastels are not \"chalk.\" Chalk is made America. The Society of Painters in sparingly, allowing the ground to of limestone and colored dyes rather Pastel was founded in 1885. Widely show through, it is called a drawing. than natural ground pigments. Chalk recognized painters Edgar Degas and Pastels can be applied over a is not permanent. Mary Cassatt were prolific users of watercolor or an acrylic ground. The pastel. Whistler produced numerous ground can be enhanced with pumice Pastels are not pale. Pastels range pastels, as did William Merritt Chase. from lighter hues to the deepest 62 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
\"All that Remains\" 24x24 inches, pastel on Uart 2020 Pastel is a modern and post-modern medium, which has proven its absolute archival reliability. It allows for broad experimentation and can be used to draw, sketch, and paint. cadmium and cobalt available to luminosity. The sanded pastel or without mats using a spacer to ART TALK with DEBORAH SQUIER the artist in all media. papers made today are meant to separate the pastel from the glass. allow for maximum layering and Pastels are not \"fragile. \"When glazing and can easily be reworked So enjoy those magnificent used on archival supports (papers without \"fixing\" or altering the pastels that have stood the test and panels) and framed correctly, colors. of time at the hands of the most pastels are unmatched for both capable masters. Better still, try permanence and brilliance of Preserving Pastels: your hand with this incredible color. medium and enjoy the brilliance Pastels are best preserved under and diversity it affords the Pastels do not have to be \"fixed,\" glass. The new museum glass is practitioner. Be prepared to be although they can be. Fixatives will an option that allows clarity, non- amazed at the magic of pastel. reduce the brilliance of the pastel glare, and UV protection all in one. pigments and permanently alter Pastels need to be appropriately Deborah Squier, pastelist since the paper's surface and the pastel prepared to avoid displacing 1992 painting. The effect is to dull the pigment. They can be framed with surface of the picture and reduce VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 63
TRACKSIDE STUDIOS Gallery Michelle Hamilton, Art Cubes, encaustic, 4” x 4” x 4” Deborah Anderson, \"Corrosion,\" digital photo on metal, 12” x 12 Diane English, \"We Are All Just Walking Each Other Home,\" acrylic, detail of 6ft story board totem Art Moves | by Lynn Stanley “We are all just walking each other home.” —Ram Dass S ome works of art find the regularly reconfiguring our art displays happen as they surround Elaine Lacy’s perfect spot in a home and as a way of refreshing the “inside view.” small ceramic tray, like houses around stay there; others roam around the At Trackside such movement comes a town square. space, adding new character to each easily. place they occupy, and then moving A walnut live-edge bowl by Anne on. Some group and regroup, some A small oil painting by Sean Herschel, a pair of Michelle Hamilton’s take on the spirit of the season. There’s McAusland marries beautifully with Art Cubes or a multiple-glaze pottery evidence that in this strange, mostly a resin-infused fabric bowl by Paige vase by Mike Hamlin can stand alone, homebound year, many of us are Houghton for a bold note of color. or perhaps complement a clutch of Sam Rae’s Tiny Houses make smiles turning leaves. Julie Bell’s windblown 64 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
Sam Rae, Tiny Houses, clay Anne Herschel, Walnut live- sculpture edge bowl Elaine Lacy, Ceramic tray Jacqueline Z. Davidson, \"Introspection,\" giclée from Sean McAusland, \"Aurora original oil Visions,\" oil, 4”x 6” Julie Bell, TRACKSIDE STUDIOS Winds, Wire sculpture on natural stone Mike Hamlin, Vase, Multiglaze ceramic wire sculpture tree brings the feel of an “Introspection” captures another We would love to welcome you autumn breeze indoors. thoughtful mood of the times. when you're ready to come to share the Trackside vibe! We are Of course, there is another important We acknowledge a dire situation, we currently open Thursday - Monday, way that art moves: it moves us. look within, but we also hope. Diane 11-4 pm, with mandated safety English’s wall totem, “We Are All Just protocols. For details, please visit Art can distill and clarify our feelings. Walking Each Other Home,” bright and Deborah Anderson’s “Corrosion” will moving, is a salve for the troubled tracksidestudios375.com. likely strike us as a good image of the heart, a message of hope and belief in a way we think sometimes in this very basic kindness within us. wearying year; Jacqueline Z. Davidson’s VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 65
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT Art Support Pledge / JUNE EVENTS Mark Bettis Gallery \"Mist in the city,\" Oil on wood 12x12, by Mark Bettis $200 for #artistsupportpledgeRAD Side view of the above image. #ArtistSupportPledgeRAD has kept art sales going during a pandemic W ith social distancing measures on virtual events, online promotions, While some buildings are closed and business closure orders and social media actions, primarily the to the public at the moment, (as remaining in place for an uncertain #ArtistSupportPledgeRAD. of May 27, 2020) others are open amount of time, River Arts District and welcoming visitors. Artists Artists members are keeping their The River Arts District Artists is a are creating work in their homes June Second Saturday on hold. membership organization. Each artist, or studios, and many are updating Instead, they are focusing their efforts gallery, and business is managing the their personal or RADA webpages business closure impacts individually. 66 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
\"Where Should We Go For Lunch,\" mixed media on cradled wood panel 12\" x 12\" by Jacqui Fehl $200 plus shipping and handling for #artistsupportpledgeRAD frequently with new work. All Asheville artist Mark Bettis has *To find these inspiring works of art: RIVER ARTS DISTRICT ARTISTS galleries are practicing county health encouraged and promoted the pledge recommendations. amongst the River Arts District artists. Search #ArtistSupportPledgeRAD Many artists have found support and on Facebook, Instagram, or visit Information on the hope – creative and financial – through the River Arts District Artists on #ArtistSupportPledge & participating in this movement. Facebook (www.facebook.com/river. #ArtistSupportPledgeRAD: arts.district/), where we are aiming HOW IT WORKS: to repost as many of our 240 artist's ARTIST SUPPORT PLEDGE IDEA posts as possible. *Artists are posting small works Begun in Germany by artist Matthew for sale under $200 on social As always, they invite everyone Burrows (full information on his media, using the hashtags to peruse their website, website: www.matthewburrows.org/ #artistsupportpledge and riverartsdistrict.com and have a artist-support-pledge), the Artist #artistsupportpledgerRAD to virtual visit, which is an excellent connect artists and collectors jumping-off point to explore Support Pledge is a way for artists Asheville's art community, and collectors to easily find and *When the artist makes $1000 in whether for educational purposes, support artists who are struggling to sales, they are pledging to purchase entertainment, or if you're looking find ways to replace lost income from a piece from another participating for a great piece of art for your home exhibitions, teaching, and open studio artist. or business. events. VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 67
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT share the artful vibe ! Trackside studios 30 artists~studios~gallery RAPID RIVER MAGAZINE EXPANSION 375 depot st ~ tracksidestudios375.com
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT Terri Owen Susanna Euston Photography RAPID RIVER MAGAZINE EXPANSION Trackside Studios 375 Depot Street Stained Glass and MosaicTrackside Studios Trackside Studios Trackside Studios 375 Depot Street Steve Fulghum Fine Art Photography Trackside Studios
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT “A Fall Day,” by Jaime Byrd, oil, 18” x 24” “Woven Connection,” by Dillon Endico, acrylic, 12” x 24” RIVER ARTS DISTRICT ARTISTS \"A Moveable Feast\" | by Catherine Cervas Heaton A Moveable Feast—what many autumn colors, harvest, community, websites, social media, or by of us are choosing these days and more. You can find these and appointment. Social distancing and for our socially-distanced experience, other “feast-ive” works throughout masks are requested per posted take-out, delivery, drive-up pick-up, the RAD. signage, and local mandates--your food trucks—all are supporting our The RAD Fall Stroll is Nov. 14-15, cooperation is much appreciated! beloved Asheville area vendors. 10–5pm. For more info visit What about feasting your eyes on Artists are participating in the the local art scene? Check out the riverartsdistrict.com/event/2020-studio-stroll/ #artistsupportpledge movement— district’s art “eye candy.” To visit the all appreciate the support through River Arts District in Asheville means If you haven’t been to the River this venue. River Arts District lots of art available in open studios Arts District lately, you will find newly artists can be found specifically at and through online viewing and sales, finished roads, walking and bike #artistsupportpledgeRAD. Check it all for your take-home pleasure! paths, and new signage. out on Facebook and Instagram! Featured here are some pieces conveying the theme and season: Please check for updated studio Look for other upcoming events hours at RiverArtsDistrict.com and news at RiverArtsDistrict.com. because some artists may be operating solely through their 70 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
“Copper Kettle and Cups” “Earth Rhythm” by Catherine Cervas, by Annie Kyla Bennett, acrylic, 24” x 24” mixed media, 16” x 20” “Conversation” \"Fall Leaves\" RIVER ARTS DISTRICT ARTISTS by Meryl Lefkovich, by Jaime Byrd, oil painting, acrylic, 9” x 12” 24\" x 6\" Meryl Lefkovich Jack Henry, and Dillon Endico, Art over 35 years. Her work is intuitive whiteSPACE Wedge Studios 2B7 Garden Avl has been growing and – focusing mostly on oil and cold 111-129 Roberts Street, Asheville adapting in the River Arts District wax –which helps create layers of for a year now! We’ll celebrate our color and texture. She is significantly Meryl Lefkovich is a self-taught one-year anniversary on Small influenced by nature, light, and the painter from Boston. Inspired by the Business Saturday, Nov 30 with an colors of Mexico and Europe. natural world and her inner world, art sale, and more festivities. Check you can find her in whiteSPACE our website www.artgardenavl.com. Catherine Cervas Heaton Gallery on the 2nd floor of Wedge Thursday-Monday, 11-5pm. Safety Soul Sidewalk Studios. measures in play. Riverview Station Studio 213 Art Garden Avl Jaime Byrd 191 Lyman Street, Asheville Riverview Station #316 Trackside Studios 191 Lyman Street, Asheville 375 Depot Street, Asheville Catherine works in oils, casein, and water media. Her works feature Co-founded in November 2019 by Jaime studied fine arts and design realism and abstract styles. Asheville artists Annie Kyla Bennett, and has been living as an artist for VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 71
\"Winter Melody\" NEW!! Online Zoom Interactive classes by Fleta Monaghan, encaustic for all levels now offered. Click Here We also have “Work At Your Own Pace” ebooks and Videos. to See our Online Store See all our new online schedule at 310art.com 310art.com We will work with you personally for your successs in Art! Art Classes for Adults/Beginners & up! Drawing and Painting / Special Topics ALL LEVELS WELCOMED We are the oldest independent fine art school for adults in the region.
grace carol bomer fine art / soli deo gloria studio contemporary • abstract • full of faith Warehouse Studios | 170 Lyman St. Asheville | 828.545.2451 | gracecarolbomer.com
ASHEVILLE GALLERY OF ART Gallery Show \"Egret on a Tin Roof\" by Chris Bell, 14x11 inches, alcohol Ink \"Winter Sun\" by Olga Dorenko, 12x16 inches, oil on canvas \"Opening Up to Art\" at Asheville Gallery of Art A sheville Gallery of Art's November hours, 12-5 p.m. Thursday thru Sunday. their works. Chris Bell, noted for custom show, \"Opening Up to Art,\" is a You can also make arrangements for portraits also explores the natural world multi-member show featuring each a private tour by emailing a request to through her art. She often uses alcohol artist's exploration into being part of mailto:[email protected]. inks to create colorful and expressive this world during uncertain times. The interpretations of the wonder around show runs November 1-30 during gallery Among the many artist members us. Of her painting, \"Egret On a Tin exhibiting, a few share some insights on 74 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
“Opening” by Zoe Schumaker, 16x20 inches, pastel. \"Reflected Blue #2\" by Bill George, 21x21 inches, oil on canvas Roof,\" Chris says, \"It's as if the egret is subject as it actually appears in real For further information about this ASHEVILLE GALLERY OF ART thinking, 'I can feel it. . .coming in the life but stops short of looking like a show, contact Asheville Gallery of Art at air tonight.'\" photograph.\" He worked as a graphic designer and illustrator in his graphic (828) 251-5796 during open hours. Olga Dorenko says of her painting in design firm on Madison Avenue, New You can also email them at the show, \"Winter Sun,\" York. [email protected], visit that it reminds her of Russian Zoe Schumaker says of \"Opening,\" the gallery website at winters. \"I lived in Siberia for five years. her painting in the show,\" These bright And while the weather is cold with lots asters were photographed in a garden ashevillegallery-of-art.com or find of snow, many magical scenes are soft in Ashland, Oregon, before COVID-19 them on Facebook. and peaceful.\" and the recent devastating fires. I used a black background to 'pop' the Please check their website for their Bill George defines his work as flowers, giving the painting a more online shop \"Realism (a.k.a. naturalism), a style stylized, graphic feeling.\" of art that attempts to portray the OPEN Thursday - Sunday noon-5pm VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 75
trade Brushes Brushes Brushes by Fleta Monaghan Tips of THe Are you faced with the daunting task of shopping Watercolorists often prefer these, but they are also useful for all mediums. A round that has been for brushes? Not sure where to start? Here are pressed flat is a filbert. These have a nice rounded some tips that can help you get started and a edge making them great for both direct mark few brands I like. Today there a so many choices. making and soft blending of edges. An extra-long It can be a bit overwhelming! You will find each filbert is my favorite. seasoned artist has their preference for a brush brand or type, making it even more confusing. A There are many specialty brushes, but you lot of brush choice is a personal preference, and generally do not need things like fan brushes or you want to find what works for you. things with feathered edges. You can get the same effects (and better) with the right old standard First, a bit about the types of brushes: when shapes. you shop, you will see all of these. The first two types are brights and flats. They are shaped like a There was a time that synthetic bristles were house painting brush with the ferrule (that metal lacking in quality. Not any more. Some fabulous part that holds the bristles) in a flat rectangular brands are almost like painting with sable, just shape. Brights are short and are often preferred without the cost. These can be great for more when doing detailed work, such as fine work in controlled painting methods. Natural hog bristles portraiture. Flats are a longer bristle, allowing for brushes are a bit stiff, but a good brand softens a more gestural brush mark. when wet and can hold a lot of paint. So, for impasto work and loose gestural work, a long Rounds are in a round-shaped ferrule. The filbert in a hog bristle can be an excellent choice. bristles come to an excellent point at the tip. 76 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
You will see sets of brushes offered. handled Simply Simmons brand for and brushes; fancy cleaners are My advice is to test out the brand watercolor (rounds) or oils or acrylics. usually not necessary. You can flick first with the purchase of one brush. I love the brand Escoda from Spain out the excess water, coat the bristles If you love it, go ahead and get the for a nice bristle brush that lasts with a little Murphys to form them set. Don't buy brushes with the and lasts, and Silver is another good into shape, and dry flat so the water bristles splayed. You want to start brand for various types of brushes. will not puddle in the ferrule. It's with a brush in perfect condition. easy, and you can get a good routine And, if you shop in person, watch for One thing you SHOULD do is take of brush care that will save you lots brushes that seem to be shedding care of your brushes. If you promptly of money over time by maintaining their bristles. Just don't waste your clean your brushes, do not leave your brushes in good condition. money on these. Packs of 30 brushes them soaking in water or solvent, for $10 are more for craft. You do get and do an excellent job with the Try out brands, find what works what you pay for usually. But you do cleaning by making sure you get all best for your style and what feels not have to break the bank to get a paint removed, your brushes will last. right to you. The right tool makes decent and durable brush. It does take a little time to do this, so a huge difference in your ability to don't be hasty. There are all sorts of master the medium of your choice. Many art supply companies offer brush cleaner, but Dawn dish liquid their line of brushes, and many is a good soap for cleaning, and I like 310art.com are decent, so give them a try. Murphy's Oil Soap concentrate to For a good, durable, inexpensive both clean and condition brushes. synthetic brush, I love the white- Spend your money on good paints VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 77
VIRTUAL READINGS Ticketed Live Stream: Denise Kiernan Launches 'We Gather Together,' in conversation with Rocco DiSpirito BOOK TALK with DENNIS RAY M alaprop's is thrilled to host email will be sent with the link required to cast of characters including Frederick the launch of New York Times attend. To attend the event, please place Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Sojourner bestselling author Denise Kiernan's your order by 4 PM ET on November 10. Truth, Walt Whitman, Norman Rockwell, new book, We Gather Together: A Nation If you would like personalization (ex. \"To and others, We Gather Together is Divided, a President in Turmoil, and a Maia\"), just indicate that in the comments ultimately a story of tenacity and Historic Campaign to Embrace Gratitude and area when ordering. dedication, an inspiring tale of how Grace. Kiernan will be in conversation with imperfect people in challenging times can celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito, author of From Ancient Rome through 21st- create powerful legacies. Rocco's Keto Comfort Food Diet. century America, bestselling author Denise Kiernan brings us a biography of Working at the helm of one of the most Pre-order a signed first edition of We Gather an idea: gratitude, as a compelling human widely read magazines in the nation, Hale Together from Malaprop's below to secure instinct and a global concept, more than published Edgar Allan Poe, Nathaniel your spot. This is an exclusive online event just a mere holiday. Spanning centuries, Hawthorne, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and your book is your ticket. We Gather Together is anchored amid and others, while introducing American the strife of the Civil War, and driven by readers to such newfangled concepts When you order the book, your name the fascinating story of Sarah Josepha as \"domestic science,\" white wedding and email address will be added to the Hale, a widowed mother with no formal gowns, and the Christmas tree. A prolific invitation list for the event. Please provide schooling who became one of the 19th writer, Hale penned novels, recipe books, a valid email address when you order and century's most influential tastemakers essays and more, including the ubiquitous whitelist [email protected] to make and who campaigned for decades to make children's poem, \"Mary Had a Little Lamb.\" sure you receive communications about real an annual day of thanks. And Hale herself never stopped pushing the event. On the day of the event, an the leaders of her time, in pursuit of her Populated by an enthralling supporting goal. 78 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
The man who finally granted her wish about a gluten-free meals, his celebrated return to a NOVEMBER 2020 We host numerous national \"thanksgiving\" was Lincoln, the president restaurant kitchen earned high praise, including a Readings & Book clubs,as of the war-torn nation in which Hale would never notable 2-star New York Times review. Rocco also PARTIAL LISTING well as Salons! Visit have the right to vote. delighted customers by featuring his signature www.malaprops.com Peconic Bay Scallops & Uni dish first served at Illuminating, wildly discussable, part myth- his critically acclaimed 3-star restaurant, Union READINGS & BOOK SIGNINGS busting, part call to action, We Gather Together Pacific, which was a culinary landmark in NYC for is full of unexpected delights and uneasy truths. many years. LIVE STREAM: Catherine The stories of indigenous peoples, immigrant Newman presents 'How to communities, women's rights activists, Tuesday, November 10, - 7:00pm Be a Person' 11/11- 7pm abolitionists, and more, will inspire readers to Event address: rethink and reclaim what it means to give thanks LIVE STREAM: \"Risky in this day and age. The book's message of Virtual event online Behavior” Emily X. R. Pan gratitude--especially when embraced during the and Nova Ren Suma present hardest of times--makes it one to read and share, 'Foreshadow,' with Rachel over and over, at any time of year. Hylton and Sophie Meridien Denise Kiernan is the author of The New York Live Stream: Charles Dodd White presents 11/12 - 7pm Times and The Wall Street Journal bestseller The How Fire Runs, in conversation with Leah Last Castle. Her previous book, The Girls of Atomic Hampton LIVE STREAM: Charles Dodd City, is a New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and White presents 'How Fire NPR bestseller. Kiernan has been published in What happens when a delusional white Runs,' in conversation with The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The supremacist and his army of followers decide Village Voice, Ms., Reader's Digest, Discover, and to create a racially pure \"Little Europe\" within Leah Hampton 11/16 - 6pm many more publications. She has also worked in a rural Tennessee community? As the town's television, serving as head writer for ABC's Who residents grapple with their new reality, minor LIVE STREAM: Miss Wants to Be a Millionaire during its Emmy award- skirmishes escalate and dirty politics, scandals, Malaprop's Storytime winning first season and producing for media and a cataclysmic chain of violence follows. In this outlets such as ESPN and MSNBC. She has been uncanny reflection of our time, award-winning 11/18 - 10am a featured guest on NPR's \"Weekend Edition,\" PBS novelist Charles Dodd White asks whether NewsHour, MSNBC's Morning Joe, and The Daily Americans can save themselves from their worst LIVE STREAM: Craig Gralley Show with Jon Stewart. impulses and considers the consequences when presents 'Hall Of Mirrors this salvation comes too late. Virginia Hall: America's Rocco DiSpirito Rocco DiSpirito is a James Beard Greatest Spy of WWII' award-winning chef, healthy lifestyle crusader, Monday, November 16, - 6:00pm 12/07 - 6pm and #1 New York Times bestselling author who Event address: is dedicated to proving that healthy and delicious Happy Thanksgiving! are not mutually exclusive. Most recently, Virtual Event Online 55 Haywood St. DiSpirito brought his creative vision and culinary talents to the iconic Standard Grill restaurant at (828) 254-6734 • 800-441-9829 The Standard, High Line. As Chef, he reimagined a menu of healthful and indulgent options, led a Open for browsing by appointment only, visual redesign of the dining room, and elevated Monday through Saturday 11AM to 3PM the kitchen with an expanded raw bar and new Binchotan-fired Josper grill from Spain. Offering Curbside pickup available. See exquisite, fresh, organic, locally sourced, and malaprops.com for details
MOVIE REVIEWS RRTeakeelwithMichelleKeenan
Remembering John Cram: Sparkle Wins REEL TAKE with MICHELLE KEENAN Pioneer of the Asheville Arts Scene Leaves A Beautiful Legacy W ith such a vibrant art, culture, The Asheville we know and love the owner of The Fine Arts Theatre, and food scene, it seems only today is a Phoenix of sorts, a boarded- was one of those people. Cram passed natural that downtown Asheville up city, revitalized and brought back to away on October 26 after a long battle would have an Arts cinema. But that life by people who saw the potential to with Parkinson's Disease. wasn't always the case. create something unique. John Cram, For those of you who have lived VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 81
REEL TAKE with MICHELLE KEENAN here for a while, it's hard to imagine put Asheville on the map as an Arts didn't have a lot, but he believed the Asheville without him. For those more destination. beauty of his dreams.\" recent to the area, you've chosen your new hometown due in no small part With New Morning on solid ground By the early '80s, New Morning was to the efforts of John Cram. Decades and a pillar in historic Biltmore Village, recognized as one of the best galleries before Asheville made any \"Top Ten\" Cram opened Blue Spiral 1, Bellagio in the southeast. Of course, Cram had lists, Cram visited Asheville in 1971 Art to Wear, The Fine Arts Theatre, no way of knowing that his dreams and fell in love with the area. Armed and Bellagio Everyday. He also started would one day change the economic with a love of beauty and culture and the annual Biltmore Village Art & Craft direction of Asheville. I asked Reed what would prove to be an intuitive Fair, which would have celebrated its when he thinks John became truly business sense, he took a small loan 48th year in 2020, but was canceled aware of what was happening. from his mother and opened a tiny due to the pandemic. Neal Reed, New gallery in Biltmore Village. Inspired by Morning Ltd's Director of Operations, \"I think it would have been when the lyrics from the Bob Dylan song, was able to spend some time with he opened Blue Spiral 1. Jim Samsel he named it \"New Morning Gallery.\" me recently reminiscing and reflecting (architect), Laurey Masterton (cook The gallery grew, and by the early '80s on Cram's impact on Asheville. and caterer), Connie Bostic (artist), was named one of the best galleries \"John loved beautiful things, starting and others were starting to invest in the southeast. The success of with nature. He dedicated his life to downtown. There was energy; things New Morning gave birth to a series celebrating, preserving, and protecting were happening, even though most of businesses and events that would art, culture, architecture, and land. storefronts downtown were empty. Just starting, straight out of college, he Connie, who owned Zone one Gallery, encouraged John to buy a building on 82 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
Biltmore Avenue and open a fine arts money we would save by switching Reed says, \"John didn't do anything REEL TAKE with MICHELLE KEENAN gallery.\" Reed continued, \"Once he did to these other lights. He stood there, for the recognition. He liked to be that, I think he had an inkling as to the listening to me. He looked down at thanked, but that wasn't the root of his impact he (and they) could make.\" the spreadsheet and then up at the generosity. He wanted to see people, lights, back down to the spreadsheet, the community, and the things he Cram opened Blue Spiral 1 on New returned his gaze to the lights, smiled cared about thrive.\" Years' Eve 1990. Blue Spiral's neighbor at me and said, 'But look at how they was a shuttered \"adult movie house.\" Sparkle.' Sparkle won.\" Reed looked at Success didn't send Cram to the Purchasing the Plaza Theatre was those lights in a new way after that. golf course. He was hands-on, always initially a pre-emptive strike to avoid involved. Cram liked being a mentor having a potentially loud venue go Cram's true passion was gardening. to artists, his employees, and other in next to the gallery, but it quickly His mother was a gardener, and he business owners. He loved all of it. became so much more in Crams's was raised with a love of nature. Reed recalls from the early days of New growing entrepreneurial interests. When he made his home on several Morning until the time Cram stopped The Fine Arts Theatre opened in acres in Kenilworth, the wooded driving, there was always a box of 1996. He minored in film in college, paths and gardens were as much a brochures for Biltmore Village in the so this was yet another labor of love work of art as anything in his galleries. back of his car. He produced them and and another avenue to celebrate art His philanthropy included opening paid for them and was happy to add and culture. Reed, who managed the his gardens to various nonprofit other businesses to them. He knew the theatre for 18 years, said, \"There are organizations for gatherings and more there was for people to do and so many cities, bigger than ours, that fundraisers. It also served as a see, the better it was for everyone. don't have a theatre dedicated to art reminder to protect this beautiful place and independent film. It was a great we call home. Cram was a gardener, entrepreneur, fit for the scene that was emerging in conservationist, and philanthropist. His Asheville, and it was a great source As Asheville and the region started legacy can be seen in the celebration of of pride for John to offer these films to grow, Cram realized that growth Arts, culture, and natural beauty around and see the theatre become such needed to be done thoughtfully us. He leaves behind his husband hub of activity and integral part of the and with great care for the natural Matt Chambers, family, friends, and community.\" environment. When Blue Spiral 1 a grateful city. A memorial will be became the home to the work of the announced at a later date. Meanwhile, At this point in our conversation, late Will Henry Stevens, Cram used the his family encourages people to visit Reed says, \"You know we all have proceeds from the sale of those pieces a gallery, take a hike, or plant a tree stories about John. John was fully to fund conservation efforts. He felt or special plant in his honor. In the involved in all his businesses, but he his most significant accomplishments meanwhile, his family encourages gave us the freedom to do our jobs. were his successes in helping preserve those inclined to make a donation He didn't always agree with the films I public lands for future generations. to a favorite arts or conservation brought in, but he trusted me with it.\" organization and take a hike or plant a But that freedom had limitations. Reed Cram received many accolades for tree or special plant in Cram's honor. says, \"I remember we used to have his work over the years. In 2014 he these halogen lights at the theatre. received the North Carolina Award, the From Reel Takes and They were hot, they burned out all state's highest civilian honor. In 2019 Rapid River Magazine, the time, and they were expensive. the Center for Craft honored him with So I did my homework and created a a named gallery, and earlier this year, thank you, John. spreadsheet to show him how much he was awarded the Order of the Long Rest in peace. Leaf Pine. VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 83
PONDER THIS . . . \"Mark Abel Opinion / Politics A Vision of Two Americas PONDER THIS . . . WITH MARK ABEL I took a bike ride this morning, the Bidens to corruption with foreign flawed, but increasingly, Americans the first in a long while. Fall is governments. now embrace socialism in response to finally cracking through the edges of a capitalist system where a few have our Sonoran Desert Summer, and I Two flawed men, one conservative great wealth while many struggle. wanted to take advantage before the and the other liberal, one of which This foundational difference offers a day became hotter. I thought about will lead America into the new year. window into the colliding world views the year, the hurricanes and fires, Given both are flawed, it seems logical of our two-party system. protests and riots, and the virus, of to consider their visions for America, course. 2020—what a year, I believe which are vastly divergent. Do you Climate: Like economics, we agree. As I continued to peddle, I know what they are? If you are still conservatives support freedom passed a few yard signs—some red reading, I will do my best to outline while liberals embrace control. and others blue. I do not know about their positions on a handful of key Conservatives will point out, America's you, but it seems the entire year has issues. I will try to be balanced, and I water and air have been getting been focused on that singular date— hope this will be helpful. cleaner and cleaner since the early November 3, 2020. 1970s. They will say that there is The Economy: Conservatives no need to shackle business with Peddling onward, I thought about believe in free markets where burdensome regulations and global the candidates, Joe Biden, and Donald companies and individuals are treaties because we are moving in the Trump. It seems both are flawed unleashed to compete in a system right direction. Instead, we can lead to some degree, but I believe it is where some will survive and others by example and share knowledge. important to remember like all of us, will fail. The idea being the consumer Liberals will argue that without they are not perfect; they are only will benefit from better and less regulation, greedy businesses will only human. Both stand accused of sexual expensive products and jobs resulting dump pollution into the environment, impropriety, one for purchasing sex from producers. This is known as focusing on profits. Pointing to science, from a film star and the other for capitalism. It is not perfect but has they will say the the planet’s survival sexually assaulting a former employee. yielded the strongest nation globally, is at risk unless we take drastic steps, Donald Trump was accused of being a America—the remaining superpower. including the elimination of fossil fuels. Russian agent and then impeached for Liberals, on the other hand, believe in Science is not settled, and one might encouraging a foreign leader to check governmental control and regulation, argue a balanced approach makes on the business dealings of Joe Biden’s the goal being fairness and equality for sense, which seems to be where we family. Recent developments suggest all. This is not a new idea. It prevails stand today. there may be merit in our President's in many countries around the globe, council as evidence is now linking best known as socialism. A few years Education: Conservatives believe ago, Americans viewed socialism as in school choice because it introduces 86 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
competition, thereby yielding conservatives welcomed the low Court Justices as they see these PONDER THIS . . . WITH MARK ABEL excellence in teaching or removing wage workforce available from persons shape and create new policies failed institutions. The choice also those crossing the southern border. and laws. Conservatives, again, for allows parents to select a school best Conversely, liberals have embraced the most part, view the Constitution suited to meet their child's unique these border crossers, viewing them from an originalist perspective. needs. On the other hand, liberals as partly-line voters. In any case, Meaning they see the Constitution as a favor public education, where the following concerns originating from foundation, established by the inspired government controls what is taught. the 9/11 terrorist attacks and, more wisdom of our founding fathers, Examples of topics important to recently, the pandemic, control of the and therefore unchanging. As such, liberals lean toward the abstract, border is no longer a highly contested conservatives place a high value on including climate change, critical race issue. In constructing a border Justices who seek to interpret the law theory, sexuality and gender identity, fence and working with Mexico, the only. Conservatives view the creation and progressive history, to name a current administration has all but of new laws to be the responsibility few. Topics of crucial importance to eliminated illegal border crossings, of Congress as established in the conservatives typically focus on the allowing control over who enters Constitution. basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, the country. Joe Biden has stated he and traditional history. will reverse all Trump border policy, I could go on and on with including reinstatement of the recently this comparison as more issues Healthcare: Again, conservatives abolished Catch and Release program separate the two parties and their believe in competition and freedom and removal of all border fences and representative candidates. I admit to being the vehicles that will yield the walls. my passion for politics, but it seems best results. Although conservatives so much is at stake in the election. view healthcare as essential, they Abortion: Of all issues, abortion Pondering all of this, I dismounted disagree anyone should be forced to may represent the clearest example from my bicycle. I spotted it then— purchase it. Liberals will point to the of the vision divide between the the American flag—waving in the uninsured and argue healthcare is parties. Liberals view abortion as a quiet breeze. It was mounted on my a right and should be granted to all woman's choice to be made privately neighbor's house across the street. via government and taxation. Both with her doctor. Increasingly, liberals There are no signs in the yard, but I parties currently agree pre-existing are advocating for the legalization of know the owner served as a Marine. conditions should not exclude anyone pregnancy termination throughout I do not know which candidate he from healthcare coverage. The the gestation term. In the event of supports, and perhaps that is good. ACA's (Affordable Care Act) mandate a botched abortion, this position After all, who am I to argue? He risked whereby all were required to purchase allows for termination after a child is his life and fought for my freedom insurance was recently eliminated. A born, again with doctor consultation. and my right to vote. I smiled and bright spot emerging from the ACA In contrast, conservatives view life concluded it was time to take my yard is that it has moved America in the as sacred, authored by God, and signs down. direction of seeking a better solution. beginning at conception. For the most When eventually established, this part, conservatives reject the premise Take care, and Thanks for Reading. new or modified healthcare solution whereby the taking of life, especially Mark Abel's debut novel, Ephesus will be determined by the party or that of the most vulnerable—the – A Tale of Two Kingdoms, is based on parties in Control of Congress and the unborn, is anyone’s choice. the battle that rages in the heaven lies President's executive branch. between good and evil. Mark's book is Constitution: Generally, liberals available on Amazon, and everywhere Borders: Traditionally, both parties view the Constitution as a living have embraced open borders but document that will evolve and change books are sold. for different reasons. Because they over time. Liberals place enormous www.MarkAbelWriter.com favor freedom and commence, value on the views held by Supreme VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 87
ZEN PHILOSOPHY Maybe \"Bill Walz ZEN PHILOSOPHY with BILL WALZ Photo by Faye Cornish T here is an old Zen parable about a poor Chinese farm- er who lived near the Mongolian border in the time of the Mongolian conquests. This old farmer lived with his only son on a small plot of land and their only significant possession was one horse to help them work the land, but one day the horse ran away. All the villagers came to offer their condolences to the farmer, for they all believed this must be a catastrophe for him. The farmer thanked them for their kindness but replied to their opinion of this occur- rence as a great misfortune by simply saying, “Maybe, we’ll have to see.” The next day, the farmer’s horse returned and brought with it a Mongolian pony. Now the farmer was twice as rich as he had been and the villagers came and congratulated him on his good fortune, to which he replied, “Maybe, we’ll have to see.” Shortly thereafter, his son tried to ride the new pony and it bucked and threw him, fracturing his hip, and of course, the villagers came out to offer their condo- lences over this turn-of-events that must be terrible for the farmer, and he thanked them for their kindness and replied, “Maybe, we’ll have to see.” Several weeks later the Chinese Army came through conscripting young men to fight the Mongols, but because of his son’s injured hip he was not conscripted and the villagers expressed how fortunate this was, for many of the young men would certainly be killed, to which the farmer replied, “Maybe, we’ll have to see.” …. And here the parable trails off, the point being that the old farmer while materially poor was very rich in wisdom, for he knew that all things change and things are not always what 88 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
they seem to be. What seems fortu- yet this is not how evolution happens. With human society, nations, groups nate today may be opening the way to and individuals, evolution happens in what can best be understood as an misfortune and likewise the other way ascending sine wave - progression building upon regression. Things get around. The point of life is to live it, bad enough for us to pay attention, and we begin to look more deeply into the not to anticipate or judge it. truth of what-is, and we begin seeing what we had been blind to. We begin As this column comes to circulation, seeing some of the root of our unhap- piness is in having too small a view an election is taking place, on reality. We begin creating a more coherent and balanced ecology – the the results unknown at the relationship of self to reality. Then things get better, for with this increase time of its writing. What in consciousness, there is created a more expansive and complex, yet more is not unknown is that A Budda stutue. inclusive sense of self, and greater whatever the results, Photo by harmony results. This is evolution not only for individuals but for all of society. there will be many, many Sabine Schulte At one level there is good and bad – yet – from an expanded view – inevita- people who are very un- bly there is greater complexity existing within relative coherency and harmony. happy with the results while Good and bad come together to create better because we have evolved. many people will be very pleased. So then we have a period of relative We are in a time when, quite possibly Through all the ups and downs, we ease and peace, and we get lazy, and can look at human history and see that ego, that part of us that is self-serving, not since the Civil War, the American overall it moves toward increasing eco- impulsive and indulgent, begins to re- nomic and political democracy – we assert itself and we become increasing- electorate is as polarized as it has ever can certainly see this truth if we look ly unconscious, not paying attention, from the vantage point of a 13th centu- just running the routines of the ego, been and this probably will create a ry Chinese peasant farmer. We are no believing things that please our ego yet longer ruled by emperors or kings and may well not be true, and things begin time of severe tension leading to we hereditary aristocracies, slavery is abol- to deteriorate. Our attention is paid to ished, the majority of people do not live that which is ego-gratifying and delu- know not what. Whichever side of at peasant subsistence levels, women sional, and less attention to what is real are no longer viewed as subservient to and we begin to slip down the slope of this divide we may find ourselves, it is men and people are no longer pris- the curve again. This is regression into ZEN PHILOSOPHY with BILL WALZ oners of class divisions - in ever-in- unconsciousness, and it always leads good to remember the wisdom of the creasing portions of the world. And the list can go on concerning accept- farmer whose only certainty was that ed views that held sway only a short historic period of time ago concerning things change and we know not the race relations, gender non-conformi- ty, and a host of other conditions that meaning of any given event in isola- were quite oppressive as viewed from modern society, yet, in their time, their tion. The farmer knew that above all unfairness and cruelty were accepted as what was normal. else, the true skill in life was to abide Human evolution is happening. Our with what-is, remaining patient and ego wants it to be this nice process of things getting better without pain, calm, available to the next turning of the page, to live life as it presents itself, essentially a mystery. He knew that what is important is to keep showing up each day doing the best we can with the best intention and without judg- ment, knowing that whatever this thing that is happening is, it leads to the next thing and we know not what that may be. Or – perhaps – if we take the long view, we CAN know what this up and down unfolding of things mean – they mean human society is evolving. VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 89
to increased suffering. Then things get ocratic society is to be on the side of progress down, and politics is the push bad enough that we once again begin history and evolution, that a person and pull of these forces, sometimes to pay attention and we move into who is dedicated to becoming increas- one view dominating, sometimes the making needed changes to reestablish ingly conscious would naturally settle other. Together, the progressive and some semblance of harmony. And so into being progressive – even the Dalai the conservative create a dynam- the cycle goes. Lama calls himself a political social- ic which moves our social evolution ist. Conversely, to be a conservative exactly as the collective of our society Two things are important: We never seeking to hold back this integration is is able to accept as the new normal. slip back as far as the previous troughs, always, eventually, to be on the side of Yet the overall direction toward pro- and we can live in faith that the pro- what history and evolution are moving gressive inclusion of those people and cess of evolution is inexorable and we beyond. The conservative, in the long issues which were once excluded from generally will continue to increase in ZEN PHILOSOPHY with BILL WALZ consciousness individually and collec- run, always loses the ideological bat- acceptance do become accepted, all tively. When we find ourselves in such tle – think about it. What conservative moving towards that most visionary troughs, we can find assurance and position continues to dominate society of concepts placed into the American confidence if we understand this. We as it once did? Slavery? Monarchism? Constitution of “a more perfect union.” just have to start paying attention to Hereditary aristocracy? Religious sec- what-is once again and begin acting tarian absolutism? Racism? Sexism? Over and over we have seen that according to the truths that are appar- Classism? Homophobia? These latter progressive periods overreach the ent and let go of the ego delusions that battles may still be ongoing, yet these tolerance of many in the collective. I had taken us backwards. The move- regressive attitudes and beliefs are not would guess that the election of a ment upward into greater integration the mainstream of society anymore. black man as president along with with what-is and increased conscious- This is evolution. the last fifty years’ breakthroughs in ness-directed action will result. Were women’s, civil, and gay rights and the we to graph this sine-wave process And – in the dynamic of social evo- increasing gentrification of America and draw a line connecting the peaks lution, the conservative position has were among the reasons we are now of the waves, we would see how inev- an important place. It is the brakes on experiencing a conservative backlash itable the process of progress is – de- progressive overreach. A progressive that placed a barely disguised racist, spite the regressions. moves in the direction of social evo- person of no observable compassion, lution, yet their view may be too far empathy, generosity, scientific or spir- It is for this reason that it seems to along this road for the general popu- itual curiosity or sophistication, with me that to be a political progressive lation to embrace, and a conservative blatantly anti-democratic authoritari- working for a more inclusively dem- moves in the direction of slowing this an tendencies and a special talent for 90 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
exploiting these regressive attitudes small community-oriented society human values AND the expansion into the White House on the tails of over a hyper-sophisticated and im- of who and what is included in the Obama. Regression. Yet – the whole personal gentrified mega-city culture valuing – until no one and no element of society will never go back to the has real merit. Perhaps left and right of life on this planet is excluded. Just attitudes on social issues that were can come together in seeing the real consider how far we’ve come since normal fifty or one hundred years ago. source of our problems is the con- the Mongols scourged across Asia at centration of wealth and power into the time of our farmer of proverb. Up And now, in what have become a mega-corporate and rich minority, and down. Any given event – is it increasingly perilous times for this the modern equivalent to a self-serv- good? Maybe. Is it bad? Maybe. We’ll country under this “conservatism,” ing aristocracy, that benefits from an have to step back and watch – and the injustices of lingering systemic unconscious population open to ma- then we will see – over-all – it is all to racism, the folly of holding to unscien- tific bias in the face of the COVID-19 nipulation, playing to fears and desires move us toward consciousness. ZEN PHILOSOPHY with BILL WALZ pandemic and climate-change, the rather than the cultivation of higher lie of “trickle-down economics,” the virtues, which would cut into profits. Bill Walz has taught meditation and giving of faith and allegiance to a mindfulness in university and public narcissistic con-man who promises to So, however this election plays out, forums and is a private-practice medi- make us “great again,” as code words there will be first impressions and tation teacher and guide for individuals for reimposing white, male, straight, reactions of it being great or terrible, in mindfulness, personal growth and conventional religious and rural life- but the wisest position might be to consciousness. Information on person- styles, when his real allegiance is only settle into: “Maybe, we’ll have to see.” al growth and healing instruction, or to himself and to his own privileged The short term will mean one thing; phone consultations at (828)258-3241, predator capitalist class becomes in- the long term will, however, eventu- e-mail at [email protected] . Learn creasingly undeniably evident. ally and intractably mean progressive more, see past columns, video and au- evolution into a more perfect human dio programs at www.billwalz.com So, I believe we are poised to move planetary society. And in this, both into another progressive period, the progressives and true conservatives, folly of the regression, having served meaning those who rightfully are con- its purpose of exposing the rot of the cerned with the breakdown of values outdated, yet clung-to, beliefs, while in society, will be able to celebrate. allowing that some ideas – such as We cannot achieve this harmonization examining the benefit of a simpler, without both the preservation of basic VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 91
YOUR HEALTH Opinion / Health YOUR HEALTH WITH MAX HAMMONDS, MD Flu Season, Again. Why can't there be a permanent vaccine? \"Max Hammonds, MD A s if it weren't enough that influenza viruses. Throughout Therefore, individuals cannot count we are dealing with the the year, they closely follow the on their immunity developed from COVID-19 pandemic, the season for mutations they see happening in last year's vaccine to protect them catching the flu is now upon us. the three common viruses that from this year's newest strains. Yes, it would help if you were cause human influenza. Type A has getting your flu shot. Every year, many subtype species that mutate Each year's flu vaccine is a new the virologists worldwide work quickly and are responsible for combination to cover all three types together to develop the best guess most flu pandemics over the past of viruses in their latest mutational – an educated guess – as to what century. Types B and C have only form. The vaccine comes in three vaccine to put together to protect one species that infect humans, but forms: against the next year's probable they also mutate from year to year. • Nasal spray (only for those over 92 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
two years old to 50 years old illnesses, and those who are seriously and provide some protection, YOUR HEALTH WITH MAX HAMMONDS, MD and who are not pregnant immune-compromised. In the United perhaps by stimulating the body's or have severe illness or are States, the yearly average is 36,000 immune system to a higher level immunocompromised). deaths per year due to the flu. of readiness and mitigating the symptoms and length of time a • Intramuscular injection of And yes, the symptoms of the person is sick from these other regular dose for all other flu are very much like the COVID-19 viral illnesses. The same may be people. symptoms in the beginning. true for a cross-reaction of the Headache, sore throat, body aches, influenza vaccine and COVID-19. • Intramuscular injection and fever. This is usually followed (There is some evidence of of high dose (four times by cough and (usually in children) this happening in the southern concentration) for those over 65 vomiting/diarrhea. Severe flu can hemisphere of the world, where their years old. look like COVID-19 with pneumonia, winter flu season has been ongoing chest pain, confusion and dizziness, since March-April). Is contracting the influenza virus and a rash – and as a secondary How do you protect yourself a serious matter? We measure the complication bacterial pneumonia against contracting the flu? The seriousness of an infectious illness and hemorrhage. The unique same as for any other respiratory by three variables: how easy is it to symptoms of COVID-19 are the loss moisture particle, air-borne virus – catch (how contagious), how virulent of the sense of taste and smell and wearing a mask, social distancing, (how seriously ill do people usually increased clotting throughout the hand washing, frequent cleaning become), and how deadly (how body (rather than bleeding). Both of surfaces touched by others. Yes, many people die)? The flu is highly influenza and COVD-19 can cause Tamiflu (an anti-viral medication) can infectious, especially Type-A. Most the body to over-react in its efforts shorten the course of the illness, but people find that the flu symptoms to mount an immune response, it won't keep you from catching the are very uncomfortable, especially resulting in a rapid self-attack on the flu, and it doesn't decrease the risk of the general body ache and the major body organ systems (cytotoxic complications. No, Tamiflu does not high fever. While they generally storm). work against COVID-19. recover in 5-7 days or less, serious Conclusion: You don't want to complications can result from the flu, Does the influenza vaccine protect be fighting the flu and COVID-19 at including pneumonia, encephalitis against COVID-19? No. The two the same time. And you don't want (inflammation of the brain), and viruses are from totally different your medical care professionals to worsening of underlying heart or families and have additional outside have to wonder which disease you pulmonary problems. protein coats. However, the influenza might be suffering from. Since we vaccine is known to cross-react now have two diseases that spread Less than one in a thousand with some other viral diseases by the same mechanisms, we would infected people die (0.1%) from be smart to continue our COVID-19 the flu, but because it is so highly precautions: masks, social distancing, infectious, the infection rate can be hand washing. And since we have a 50-70% in those not vaccinated, and vaccine against the flu that is 25-60% therefore, the deaths can happen effective (depending on the year), we in large numbers. In the world would be prudent and wise to get our population, 250,000 to 650,000 flu shot this year, for sure. die each year from the flu, most in those over 65 or under two years of age, in those with severe underlying VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 93
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MOSAIC ART (Left -Right) Hamsa Chair to be mosaiced Height 56” x Width 44” x Depth 32”, Linda with Birdhouse Totem Pole pics 7 ft tall, 8” wide, (detail) Birdhouse Totem Pole, Barn Owl Kachina – H24” x W12” x D10” Private collection The journey of a Mosaic Artist | by Linda Pannullo L ocal mosaic artist Linda Birdhouse Totem Pole made with state symbols of animals and plants. Pannullo’s passion for mosaics recycled china, mugs, dishes, and Linda Pannullo loves to share this officially started in 2006 when she leftover art supplies. It was chosen as attended a week-long workshop at the winner in the Art category in the ancient art with others. Please get in the Arrowmont School of Arts and 9th ReStore ReUse Contest put on by touch for private and group lessons Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN. the Asheville Habitat ReStore. and send her your email to receive There she learned how to carve her monthly newsletter. foam substrates, cut and adhere Her Barn Owl Kachina is in a mosaics, and created a three-piece private home - an extraordinary Live workshops will reschedule in totem pole that still lives in her front piece for her, seeing the Owl as an 2021 in the late summer/early fall. yard. Over the years, she immersed ambassador for peace with a lotus herself in different mosaics styles by pod and olive branch held in its Linda just completed a 7-foot tall bringing the best artists in the world wings. Birdhouse Totem Pole and would to Asheville to teach their particular love to teach you how to make one specialties and techniques. The large chair, based on the for your home. Let her know you are Recently she returned to carving shape of a Hamsa Hand (ancient interested. large foam substrates for her art Middle Eastern symbol in all faiths, projects and so has come full circle a protective sign that can bring its Please register at since that pivotal week in 2006. owner happiness, luck, health, and lindapannullomosaics.com Most recent creations are a 7ft tall good fortune), will eventually be covered with Wildlife indigenous to or call (828) 337-6749 our area, including 11 North Carolina for more information. VOL. 24, NO. 3 — NOVEMBER 2020 | RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | 97
BLACK MOUNTAIN RAPID RIVER MAGAZINE EXPANSION AAttrSatcatrion Dec 4, 2020 - Jan 6, 2021 IN BLACK MOUNTAIN Stroll Through Area Retail Shopping until 7pm every Friday Christmas Lights Extravaganza • Decorative Tree Contest “Find the Bear” Scavenger Selfie • Strolling Musicians Visit www.exploreblackmountain.com for details
\"THINKING\" with PETER LOEWER Opinion THINKING with PETER LOEWER Today, you can visit the great museums of the word on your computer with exquisite detail, 3D viewings, sounds, and music. The World of Virtual Entertainment N ow that everyone who with the concept of virtual reality and Manhattan at 225 Madison Avenue once had a job or worked the opportunity for your computer and East 36th Street in the Murray in education or lived as a freelance screen to become a passport to a Hill neighborhood of Manhattan, artist, among other trades, is world and hopefully large enough New York City. It's a most important quarantined at home and faces the for a good image of subjects ranging institution best described in its fact that libraries are restricted, from rare birds to rare art and rare history as the storehouse of J. P. movies are closed, restaurants visuals, not to mention, perhaps, Morgan, who was an eager collector masked. Wandering supermarkets the Catacombs under Paris or an art on a fantastic scale of collectible is not what passes for active exhibition in New Delhi, India, on a objects of art in virtually every entertainment. We now turn to Saturday afternoon. medium, including rate books, the computer for communication, manuscripts, drawings, prints, and enlightenment, and entertainment, My first introduction to what might ancient artifacts. In 1924, his son, J. more so than ever before. await you at the computer involved P. Morgan, Jr., turned over his father's Allow me to suggest a few contacts the Morgan Library & Museum great library to the public. (www.morgan.org) located in 100 |RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM | RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE | VOL. 24, NO.3 — NOVEMBER 2020
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