“A Slice of Art” is the first art program in the Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s new initiative, Out of the Ashes: Art Emerging from Fallen Trees, that commemorates the devastating loss of the ash tree, one of the primary native trees in Hopewell Valley. This summer, wood slices, playfully called “Slices of Art,” will be available for artists and artisans to take home and artistically reimagine. The program is designed to inspire artists to create unique, natural expressions of art on an ash wood palette. Use your creativity to paint, arrange a mosaic, apply photography, or whatever your imagination desires!
As a result of the infestation of a beetle called the Emerald Ash Borer, the entire North American Fraxinus (Ash) genus of ash trees in the United States is threatened. Many ash trees, some infected and some yet to be infected, are being taken down to ensure public safety.
In the spirit of the HV Arts Council’s ongoing upcycling theme – making art out of trash and typically discarded items – Out of the Ashes will transform wood from this beautiful American tree into art through a diverse series of art programs, exhibits, and community events throughout 2018 and 2019.
Slice of Art by Linda Bradshaw
What are the requirements?
Artist will create artwork on the provided wood (up to 2 slices) that is approximately 11-12 inches in diameter. Wood slice, brackets, and instructions are all included. Artist will be responsible for attaching the wall bracket in the orientation that the art is intended to show. Completed artwork is intended to be hung on walls. Changes may be made to the slice but do not change the diameter. Artist may use any type of medium, carving or burning tools, or other materials to the palette. The use of products/treatments to extend the life of the wood is encouraged. Designs must be the original work of the artist or team of two and may not infringe upon the copyright or any intellectual property rights of others. HV Arts Council reserves the right to be selective about which art designs will be on display for sale purposes. Artist must keep in mind that the audience will be broad-based and of all ages, so designs must be appropriate for public display. Designs that are religious, political or sexual in nature are not permitted.
Where can I pick up a slice of wood?
Ash wood slices are available in the main lobby of the Hopewell Valley YMCA building, located at 62 South Main Street, Pennington, during business hours (Monday- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm) until Wednesday, August 1.
How do I register?
It’s free to submit! Please fill in your information (name, phone and email) on the HV Arts Council clipboard in the main lobby when you pick up your wood slice, instructions and bracket. All artists should bring their artwork to the YMCA building (during business hours) upon completion and no later than Wednesday, August 15.
Is there an honorarium?
Yes! All artwork will be for sale at the price of $100. Artist will each receive 50% of the profit and the other 50% will be used to benefit Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s programs, events, and scholarship opportunities. Artists are welcome to donate their portion to benefit our mission. Any artwork that is not sold will be returned to the artist.
Where will the Slices of Art be on display?
Save the date! Artwork will be displayed and for sale at our first community Out of the Ashes Barbecue, & Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, September 9, at the Valley Road Picnic Area, Hopewell Township.
I’m in! What’s next?
Please share the love! Let your friends know about this unique opportunity to design A Slice of Art and invite them to the event on Sunday, September 9, where your art will be on display and for public sale. Be creative and enjoy designing your artwork!
If you have any further questions, contact Artist Outreach & Program Coordinator, Kyle Wille at kyle.wille@hvartscouncil.org.