Missoula News

First Friday Reception

NewWest.Net Hosts Melanie Gardner’s Drawing with Paint Oct. 5

By Courtney Lowery, 10-02-07

NewWest.Net First Friday is back this month with a new show and we’ll be hosting the reception Oct. 5 from 5-9 p.m.

So, drop by our office, warm up, chit chat about Western issues and raise a glass to the art of Melanie Gardner, who calls her art, “drawing with paint.”

Who:  Melanie Gardner
What:  Good company, good art, good beer.
When:  First Friday, October 5th, 5-9 p.m.
Where:  New West offices, 415 N. Higgins (in the alley behind the Old Post).

Here’s what Melanie has to say about her work:

“I’m not a formally trained artist. I was taught to draw by my dad who is an amateur artist, photographer and musician… I have drawn since I was a child. It comes naturally, since I have busy hands. But I started painting only recently when I couldn’t find affordable art to hang on my wall. That’s how I know I like a particular piece, I hang it on my wall.

My preferred tool is a pen for sharpness and control. I would call most of what I do Drawing with Paint. I prefer bold shadow, minimal detail, and free-form lines. Much of what I do has to do with my state of mind when I am holding the pen or brush. When I begin a piece, I simply let my hand go. I don’t know what image will take shape. When I recognize the personality of the sketch, I elaborate and give it an expression.”

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