9/29/2008 4:44:00 PM Experience the 'Wild Untamed West' at Goldenstein Gallery
Buckle Up by David DeVary, who is known for his "Cowboys & Cowgirls with Attitude."
On Oct. 3, Goldenstein Gallery in Uptown Sedona opens its fourth annual Cowboys and Indians Show.
This unparalleled celebration of the American West continues the tradition of featuring internationally renown, contemporary Native American and Western Artists. This show represents the quintessential Indian and Western cultures. It is deeply rooted in tradition yet flourishes with new styles by artists that are going beyond tradition to capture the imaginations of today.
Among the stars of this special show are David DeVary, known for his "Cowboys & Cowgirls with Attitude," Upton Ethelbah (Greyshoes) a winner of the Best of Show in Bronze Sculpture, Star York, chosen as one of the 30 most influential artists by Southwest Art Magazine, Jan Van Ek whose lifelike equine sculptures are collected internationally, Jim Van Deman whose evocative paintings are a contemporary reflection of his Delaware Tribal heritage, and Paul Winters who creates stunning hand carved and painted wood screens. The artists will be present at the First Friday Reception on Oct. 3.
The attitude in David DeVary's paintings comes from the cowboys and cowgirls he's met. Early on he would photograph the rodeos for inspiration. David realized the Western cowboy and cowgirl are American icons and paints them as such using gold, silver and copper leaf, much like the icon painters of old. The contemporary work captures the values of the West with interest, beauty and sense of good being.
Star York's body of work reflects the cultural diversity and history of the Southwest, the native wildlife and the mysteries of ancient sacred sites. "When a character emerges from a work I am sculpting, I feel touched on a deeply intimate subconscious level. It is this essence in a work that makes it intensely personal and entirely universal at the same time" says York of her work. Each of her pieces engages the viewer and takes them on a journey.
Upton Ethelbah (Greyshoes) is the 2006 winner of the Best of Show in Bronze Sculpture and two First Place Blue Ribbons in Bronze Sculpture at Santa Fe's Indian Market. "Uppie" is Santa Clara Pueblo on his mother's side and White Mountain Apache on his Father's. His stone and bronze sculptures dance through the gallery, twirling on their stands, like stylized dancers inspired by feast day rituals and the joy of pueblo life.
Equine sculptor Jan Van Ek's pieces capture the power and playfulness of these magnificent creatures. Van Ek says of her work " With most horse lovers the fever hits at a very early age. It never lets up ... in fact, the intensity only increases with time. For me this is certainly the case. Being in their presence has always given me a sense of peace."
Jim Van Deman feels that his paintings are reflections of his Delaware Tribal Heritage. The combinations of colors found in his work usually represent the endless variety of hues and tones found in Nature. His vibrant abstract style allows him the freedom to portray the spirit or essence of a person, place or thing with great power. He is renown for his handmade Native flutes.
Paul Winters is a painter, printmaker and filmmaker. His independent films include "Nate and the Colonel" and "Ride." His striking screens feature hand-carved historic western scenes painted with acrylic paints. Evocative of the American primitive style, they capture the drama of the historic period he is conveying.
The public is invited to meet these engaging artists and other local artists at the opening night reception for "Cowboys and Indians" on Friday Oct. 3 from 5-8 p.m. during the First Friday Sedona Gallery Association Art Walk. Well-loved local musicians The Mercenaries will perform at the gallery and there will be a wine tasting by local vineyard Alcantara.
Goldenstein Gallery is located at 390 N. Hwy. 89A in uptown Sedona and is open daily. Parking is available behind the gallery. Visit their website www.GoldensteinArt.com to sign up for their informative E-zine released monthly or call 928-204-1765 for additional information.
