“The Art of Main Stay” Professional Artists Share Their View
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In the spring, summer and fall of 2011 over 30 professional artists participated in three site visits to the farm of the Main Stay Therapeutic Riding Program, in Richmond, IL. During this time they met the special horses and learned about some of the miracles that have happened at Main Stay. For example students have spoken for the first time, students have become strong enough to walk, and an Alzheimer's patient remembers his love for horses. The artists were very inspired by the magic of Main Stay. They took pictures, created small paintings and sketches, petted the horses, watched classes and walked the property. Each artist was moved by something different. They returned to their studios to create their work in their own media and style to represent their impressions of Main Stay.
A little less than one year later over 80 pieces of art were chosen to be part of the first Art of Main Stay exhibit. During Main Stay’s annual Black Tie and Blue Jeans Gala 43 pieces of art were included as part of the evening. The art work was priced by the artists and guests were given the opportunity to purchase the work with 50% going to Main Stay and 50% going back to the artists. This unusual partnership met with great success, 20% of the artwork was sold that night. The remaining pieces include paintings, photography and mixed-media which all speak to the heart of the Main Stay. This exhibit is currently on display at The Old Court House Art Center, 104 Johnson Street, Woodstock, IL through July 1st during their normal business hours. Art buyers can continue to support Main Stay, 50% of each sale will go to the program. The public is welcome to attend the artist’s reception on June 23rd at the OCHAC.
For more information call Ann Henslee 815-653-9374.
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