January 7, 2010

'Explosion of Fashion and Art' on display at new downtown art gallery

By KATHY KIRBY
kkirby@muncie.gannett.com

Whet your artistic palate by attending the exhibition, "Explosion of Fashion and Art," during its opening reception 5-9 p.m. today in Art and Soul by Phoebe Gallery, 409 S. Walnut St.

The featured artist, Jean McCauley, has 20 of her works on display in oils, pastels and photography.

"She is so well-traveled and it shows up in her work," said Phoebe Wantz, gallery owner.

A bridge in New York's Central Park is depicted in one of her paintings and the Charles Bridge in Prague is shown in one of her photographs.

Local artist Ann Johnson also is showing 14 of her original fashions.

"She is a walking piece of art herself," Wantz said. "Her fashions are alive with color, design, style and uniqueness. That's why they fit in our gallery."

Accompanying these artists are the works of 36 other artists.

At the exhibition, there also is a collection of vintage hats, jewelry and purses, along with specialty pieces from Tanglevine Crossing in Farmland.

"Explosion of Fashion and Art" will be on display through Jan. 25.

An acrylic artist, Wantz opened the gallery in October. She is a former art major at Ball State University and has been active in Muncie community theater.

Multi-media artist Michael DuQuette is the artistic director and curator of the gallery. He recently moved to Muncie from Chicago, where he received his bachelor of fine arts degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

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