Two Auctions and an exhibit!
The past few weeks have been filled with a busyness that I never could have imagined for myself! Well, to be honest, I have imagined these types of things happening. I just never imagined them happening so soon! When I launched Carandanis Fine Art LLC, I really didn’t know what direction it would go. I knew that I had a story to share and hope to offer through God’s amazing work in my life. I knew that He takes any situation and can turn it into good (Romans 8:28). I knew that I had been granted a gift in making art that continues to elude my understanding today. After my father’s tragic death, I knew that life is short and any work I want to do while here on this earth needed to be started right away.
There were so many obstacles I could have leaned on to justify not launching the business. In my opinion, these reasons were substantial and no one would have disagreed or thought otherwise. But, there was an ember burning within me. Although I didn’t know where this journey would take me, I knew that if I committed to telling the stories and glorifying God for His gifts to me, the journey would take on a life of its own. This is what I am beginning to experience now.
I was presented with two opportunities to donate pieces of my art to fundraising events for children. I believe donating my art to carefully curated organizations supports my stance that there is abundance in the art world. The first event, Barlow Young Life, was a beautiful evening of fundraising and storytelling that were incredibly touching and uplifting! I didn’t really know which piece of art would be suitable for the event, so I began a new piece. As always, I never really know what will emerge. I began with abstract mark making and layers of color and texture, as I usually do. Just as I was assuming this would be a completely abstract piece, a landscape emerged. Because I am who I am, I tried to obliterate it and modify it to be more abstract, but the landscape insisted that it be revealed. This push and pull with the canvas is very typical for me…when will I ever learn?!? As I began to accept that the landscape was what the painting wanted to be, I realized the message that it brought forth with it. The painting is entitled, “Beauty in its Time.” This is taken from Ecclesiastes 3:11. Not all beauty is immediate, obvious and/or ever existing. The deepest beauty is forged over time, surviving pain and trauma, and enduring countless moments of despair and sadness. The beauty that emerges from time-tested pain and growth has an exquisiteness that is difficult to describe. As I was putting the finishing touches on the painting, I noticed a “hill” in the landscape…a perfect place to paint in a small and humble cross. As small as it is, I believe it is the most powerful component of the work…His still small voice. (I Kings:19:12)
This painting found its home in a newly built farmhouse. I had the unique pleasure of meeting the owners. They were so excited to display this piece in their home! I was incredibly humbled that something that I created in my little studio would be so loved and appreciated by complete strangers. But, I know that piece carries with it my heart and soul. I pour myself into my work with prayers that people would be encouraged, seen, and blessed by it.
Shortly after this auction concluded, I was given another opportunity to donate a piece to an amazing organization called Angels in the Outfield. This organization’s mission is to provide hope to children impacted by crime, abuse and neglect. Although I would rather these organizations not have to exist, I am honored to be able to offer something in support of it. As I began to look through my body of work to decide what to donate, the organization’s president and founder, Shannon Kmetic and I agreed a smaller piece would be appropriate for the type of auction that was being held. I didn’t have many smaller pieces. so I went to my easel and began to work. Again, the painting guided me to what it wanted to be…an abstract image of circles that linked together. “Better Together” was created from my belief that when people get together to promote common good, there is power and energy!
As if the opportunity to participate in raising funds for our community’s children wasn’t enough, I had the huge honor of being selected to have my work shown in an exhibit for the Hellenic American Cultural Center and Museum. Ten local artists from our Greek-American community were chosen to share our art in this beautiful museum. I know, I know…you’re thinking, “Is Cheri Greek?” Not by heritage, but I have been lovingly received by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral community for the past 20 years! I was so humbled and proud to stand amongst the outstanding talent of nine other artists who are also being featured in this exhibit. However, I have to say that may favorite part of all is that my work gets to be exhibited alongside my father-in-love, Perry Carandanis! He is a very talented artist and potter. Please visit the museum to see all the magnificent work on display!
“Contemplation” on display at the Hellenic American Cultural Center and Museum
“Intentional Musings” and “I Know You”
Perry next to “The Letter”…a sweet painting of my mother-in-love Jane.
I am so grateful that the word is getting out and I am receiving more and more inquiries about my work. One of the most interesting aspects of all of this is having the opportunity to speak to people about what they think about my art. I will never stop being amazed at how accurately people are able to describe the emotionality behind my work. I also love that many comment that they are drawn in to explore the various marks and the hints of layers that can be appreciated. My prayer is that God will always be glorified in what He has done for me. Even though I don’t know where any of this is going, I know Who is going with me, and THAT is exciting!
Also, on a final note, “Thank you, sweet Dad, for cheering me on from heaven. I can feel your encouragement and love. I know you’d be so proud of your little girl!”
