Geometric shapes painted in primary colors melt on and off the screen, jazz ticks along in the background and there’s not a soul in sight. The latest art exhibition from Preservation Chapel Hill has gone virtual.
Video footage on the organization’s website walks visitors through "Then and Now," an exhibition of Anne Thomas’ prints and paintings, in the latest COVID-19 compromise. The historic Horace Williams House is hosting the exhibit, which spans the 91-year-old artist’s prolific career, until Nov. 22.
In an interview with exhibit curator Nerys Levy, Thomas described her work as spontaneous. She said she’s inspired by the shapes that interest her and the colors she enjoys.
A North Carolina native, Thomas has worked at a variety of prestigious institutions including UNC, the University of Georgia and the Greater Reston Arts Center. Following her stint in Reston, she returned to Chapel Hill and maintained her involvement in the local arts scene, serving as the chairperson of the Horace Williams House Art Committee until her retirement.
Thomas donated her collection to the program in order to make this exhibition possible, Levy said. And her loyalty is further demonstrated by the fact that she’s showcasing her work at all.
“Anne, at the age of 91, to be showing her work shows great courage,” Levy said. “Going out there and putting a whole show out is an act of artistic determination.”
Exhibits at the Horace Williams House usually look much different. Levy described a reception with 100 guests and a meet-and-greet with the artist. It’s an honor to be shown there, Levy and Thomas said.
For the time being, the program is making do by increasing the duration of the exhibits and providing the public with the virtual tour or viewings by appointment. As usual, paintings are available for purchase, with all proceeds going towards Preservation Chapel Hill.
Art sales are one of the primary sources of funding for PCH. They often showcase local artists in an effort that is part fundraiser, part conservation of culture.
