May 2011

Edward Dare Gallery in Charleston, SC, Features Works by Ralph Grady James

Edward Dare Gallery in Charleston, SC, will present the exhibit, A Broader Perspective, featuring paintings by Ralph Grady James, on view from May 6 - 30, 2011. A reception will be held on May 6, from 5-8pm.

On the heels of his one man show at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, in Raleigh, NC, the work of Ralph James will be featured at Edward Dare Gallery, focusing on coastal birds and their fragile habitat as well as select landscapes and figurative pieces.

James says, “I love the interaction of people and nature. Our awareness of the interdependence of seasons, tides, wildlife and humanity brings a broader perspective to life.”

James has always loved the natural habitat of the Carolinas and feels fortunate to live close to both the Appalachian Mountains and the Outer Banks. He grew up roaming the woods and fields of his family farm near the Yadkin River, observing wildlife in the seasonal changes. His passion for ecology, his attention to the intricacies of each feather in his shore bird compositions and his compassion for humanity shine in his masterful paintings.

The encouragement and challenge of working with local artists in a weekly drawing group with Scott Burdick and Sue Lyon has inspired James to continue to stretch his ability.

James says, “In some way, our identity in life is determined by what and how we communicate with our world. Painting is one of the ways I use to reflect what is within me and also interact with and touch those around me. It is a way I seek to be understood by others and also to understand myself. Whether we express ourselves through painting, writing, speaking or other methods, we all have an innate need to communicate who we are and what is important to us - our passion, our love, our fear, our hope, our humor. Indeed, my art contains all of this - some of it readily apparent, some of it intentionally hidden”.

“Georgia O’Keeffe spoke for me when she said, ‘I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way - things I had no words for.’ I want to show to others what I see and feel: the majesty and awe-inspiring beauty of all creation. My desire is for us to find a bit more peace and contentment in our lives through this process. I like the way Scott Christensen puts it when he says, ‘...painting is not the aim or focus of life, but instead painting contributes to the art of living.’”

For further information check our SC Commercial Gallery listings, call the gallery at 843/853-5002 or visit (www.edwarddare.com).

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