WVAL’s Art in Public Spaces
It’s hot, school’s out and it is summertime. It’s vacation season and many escape to cooler climes or to the beach. Time to take off to relax and to enjoy the season. But not the Wimberley Valley Art League and their “Art in Public Spaces Program.”
“Art in Public Places is around all year, and the idea is to help the artists have a place to hang their art, hoping that once you see it, then you’ll buy it,” Charlotte Caldwell said, Director of the WVAL program. Along with Jennifer Morris, the art is rotated every three months throughout the year.
Venues for the art are located at businesses around town so that the general public can view the artists’ work in a natural area, not just in galleries. The art is everywhere you go, the Wimberley Village Library, the lobby of the Wimberley Medical Plaza, Dr. Eric Price’s Office, the Wimberley Visitor’s Center, and Ozona Bank.
Charlotte and Jennifer take the time to hang each piece to make sure each picture or photo blends in with the rest of the art that is to be displayed in that location with size, theme and colors taken into consideration to provide an exhibition that pleases the eye. But the major point is, that the art is placed where people can see it.
“There are hand painted acrylics, oils, encaustic (which uses bees wax to which color pigments are added), pastels and photographs. There are a huge variety of different techniques, which reflects the 204 members of the WVAL,” Charlotte said.
“Sixty percent of the members are from Wimberley, but we also have members from San Antonio, San Marcos, Boerne, Spring Branch and others who only call Wimberley their weekend home.” She continued.
“There is a lot of talent around. I am amazed at the quality of the artists in the League. Some of the pieces are from famous artists from around the world who live here, where some of their artwork sells for $8,000. But also we have undiscovered artists and their work.”
Wimberley is noted for artists in very different mediums, not just paintings and photography but also for sculptors, musicians, filmmakers and writers. Many famous individuals live in the valley. With its natural beauty and friendly people it inspires all who live here.
When visitors pay a visit, they know that shopping at the little shops and the businesses are one of the strong points to pay Wimberley a visit.
Arriving first at the Visitor’s Center those visitors see that art and artists are also a big part of Wimberley. Placing the art in public spaces reminds us all of talent that lies within the valley and hills.
So the next time you are waiting in Dr. Prices office, a bank line or paying a visit to the Visitor’s Center, stop and ponder the art. If for only a moment, no matter if it’s 5 seconds or minutes, it will surely take your mind off your problems and lift your spirits.