Drawing class, Halloween hijinks, exhibits…

By Hope Wallace

There are only a couple more days to catch the enigmatic exhibit by Robert Millard-Mendez. This unique collection of found-object sculptures will depart on Sept. 27. We promise you will discover something new each time you look at one. From an early age, Mendez was enthralled with mechanics and motion and with over 400 exhibitions across the U.S.

On Thursday we are hosting the Biz Expo & Taste of Van Wert! This growing tradition is going to highlight some of the regions innovative businesses in a great atmosphere. There will be music, food tastings, a cash bar and we may even start the fire pit. Bring marshmallows and your curiosity about what your Van Wert area can offer. Best thing? Free. 4:30–7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. (ArtNight won’t be officially held that evening but if you want to come and draw, we won’t stop you)

The 38^th Annual Photography Exhibit is going to be quite impressive. Accepted entries have until Oct. 6 to bring us their framed photographs. Please contact us if you have trouble with timing and we’ll make arrangements. The exhibit runs from Sunday, Oct. 11 through Nov. 8. Join us for the Photography exhibit opening party on Oct. 11, 1-5 p.m. As always, exhibit and reception are free of charge.  There will be free refreshments, a cash bar, lively music and a warm welcome. Jerame Wheeler will be entertaining us at the opening reception and has been playing guitar for over 20 years. Originally inspired by his father’s bluegrass band as a young boy, Jerame didn’t hesitate to form his own band called Locally Grown. Locally Grown toured Toledo area venues for over 10 years then Jerame continued playing solo gigs. His many years of experience as an entertainer lead him to be a very eclectic musician covering artists and bands from his father’s era to today. The exhibit is sponsored by Citizens National Bank.

ArtReach has begun, but this is not a program that has a beginning or end. Enroll your student for part of the school year and jump in anytime. Ages 7-11 will started Tuesday, Sept. 22 and ages 12-15 will begin this Thursday, Sept. 24. Times are 3:30 – 5 p.m. Instructor Diane Bendele will return and has many cool projects lined up! Costs are $35 regular/$30 members per month and we follow the Van Wert City School calendar for holidays, weather days etc. Please call the art center and celebrate the undaunted creative spirit in children.

If you would like a private table for Dr. Wassenstein’s Freak Show act soon! They are almost sold out. Ticket sales have also picked up speed and we don’t want anyone to miss out – It’ll be a scream.  Join us for a macabre circus this Oct. 31. Electro-swing d.j. C.R. Vourteque will return from his home base of Chicago to get your feet dancing! Performers risking life and limb in death (almost) defying feats. Creepy clowns, popcorn, peanuts and liquid refreshments a costume contest and other surprises will guarantee your Halloween a perfect success. General ticket sales will open on 9/13. Membership not required, public always welcome. It’s the greatest show, unearthed. More information can be found at: http://www.wassenbergartcenter.org/announcements/dr-wassensteins-freak-show or call the art center at: 419.238.6837.

We will be offering a drawing class for adults on Friday mornings beginning on Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. taught by Pat Rayman. Cost of the class is $40 regular/$35 members. Bring drawing pencils, sketch pad, kneaded eraser, colored pencils and an ink pen.  Registration is required; call soon to reserve your place.

For more information on exhibits or to sign for classes and events visit wassenbergartcenter.org. The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 214 S. Washington St. (former Van Wert Armory). We can also be reached by telephone at: 419.238.6837, email: info@wassenbergartcenter.org and our website is: wassenbergartcenter.org.