Since the first of 2011, we have been participating in FIRSTfriday of Falls Church. Each month a different artist is featured on the walls of our office. I had no idea the impact this revolving display would have on us.
Our first month featured Christine Miller: her landscapes and still lifes were calming, subdued, classic. It was a treat to be surrounded by "real art" -- oils and pastels on canvases, framed beautifully. Christine's work made me feel grown up.
In February, Wendy Wang's paintings went up. Her style is quite different from Christine's. Her background in portraiture showed in her ballet pieces, but much of her art was very free form and alluring. More abstract, and quite stimulating here in the office. The nude that went up over the sofa was spectacular. Wendy's work made me feel sophisticated.
Now, for March, Atti Vakili Wheeler has taken over our space with vibrant colors and dancers that pop right off their canvases. The life and energy they bring are especially obvious coming as they do at the end of winter. Her work has put a spring in all of our steps. Atti's work makes me feel ALIVE.
The point of all this -- art can have a profound impact on both mood and ambiance. I can't tell you how exciting it is to watch the change as new art is rotated in...everyone is affected. Art draws you out of yourself. It can be as mind-altering as music, as uplifting as sunshine.
We celebrate these artists at a reception on the first Friday evening of each month. But if you're in the area any time, stop in and see what's hanging on our walls. This is like owning a private gallery. I can't wait to see what's next!
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