MANTEO, N.C. – College of The Albemarle (COA) is pleased to present “From Then to Now,” a retrospective exhibition of paintings, works on paper and furniture by Outer Banks artist Rick Tupper. The exhibition will also feature photographs by his son, Ed Tupper.
The Storm Watchers – Acrylic On Canvas, 36 x 48
The exhibition opens on Aug. 26 at the COA – Dare Professional Arts Gallery, located on the second floor of B Building, 205 U.S. Highway 64, Manteo. An opening reception will be held on Aug. 26, from 2 to 4 p.m.
Tupper describes his work in his own words:
As a teenager, I spent much of my time on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Memories of unspoiled beauty, solitude, and horizons eventually led me back to the barrier islands, and in 1973, I happily called them my home.
Once settled, I made the conscious decision to create paintings that would for the most part reflect the character of the area, but with a universal appeal. The goal was for my paintings to provide and, if needed, to restore harmony and tranquility to the viewer and most importantly leave behind my small contribution to this spectacular place.
Through the years, even as I ventured into other subject matters (e.g., Earth Vase Series, Dialogue Series, Heart Series), I adhered to the goal I set myself over 50 years ago … to produce artwork that projects a sense of balance and harmony, while still evoking a thoughtful dialogue with the subject matter.
“I am truly excited and honored to have the opportunity to show a cross-section of my work at College of The Albemarle, right in my backyard,” said Tupper. “This exhibit, ‘From Then to Now,’ includes pieces from the 1970s all the way to more recent creations. My aim is to provide a glimpse into the development of my work, from abstraction to a more organic surrealism.”
The exhibition will remain on display Aug. 26 through Oct. 22. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is free and open to the public.
For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, Executive Director, Public Relations and Institutional Engagement, at 252-335-0821 ext. 2420 or [email protected].