Blackwater Artists League comes to Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts

Published 8:34 pm Monday, May 10, 2021

Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts welcomes a new art exhibition, “On the Cusp of Change,” featuring the Blackwater Artists League, showcasing 14 members from Franklin, Courtland, Western Tidewater and North Carolina.

It features 63 pieces of artwork reflecting an eclectic mix of painting styles, photography and mixed media and is on exhibit from May 13 through June 25.

Meet the Blackwater Artists during the in-person opening art reception May 13. To allow for social distancing, there are two timed entry options, 5 to 6 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

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Participating artists will be attending both reception times. Patrons are asked to reserve a time slot in advance online at suffolkcenter.org/blackwater-artist-league.

The Blackwater Artists League was established in 1984 and named for the Blackwater River that goes through Franklin and Courtland. The organization features artists from all media who get together weekly to paint, sketch and sometimes take workshops. The group helps each other while sharing ideas and new techniques. Members meet in Courtland at the art house, next to The Rawls Museum. The only requirement to join Blackwater Artists League is an interest in art.

“The Blackwater Artists League is thrilled to be able to exhibit after so long and to be in such a beautiful facility,” said Nancy Stutts, chairman of the Blackwater Artists League.

Artists participating in “On the Cusp of Change” include Bill Billings, Diane Bracy, Becky Byers, Patricia Chapweske, Priscilla Jones, Iola Lamison and Nancy Stutts of Franklin; Nancy Blythe of Carrsville, Irene Field and Sandy Lupton Courtland, Marietta Klausmeier of Zuni, Sylvia Liverman of Murfreesboro, N.C.,  Russell Schools of Capron and Barbara Walters of Winton, N.C.

“On the Cusp of Change” is on exhibit in Suffolk Center’s two GOLD award-winning art galleries, BB&T Gallery and Norfolk Foundation Gallery, located on the second floor of the center. Visitors are encouraged to experience the artwork in person, providing an immersive opportunity to unwind and relax. The Suffolk Center art galleries are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and offers free admission to the public. Gallery tours are available for small groups and schools upon request. “On the Cusp of Change” artwork is available to view and purchase online at suffolkcenter.org.

The Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts is located at 110 W. Finney Ave. in historic downtown Suffolk. For more information, call Jester’s Gallery Shop at 757-925-1800.