C'ville Arts, a Gallery for Crafts & Art on the Charlottesville Downtown Mall

C’Ville Arts Temporary Closing Announcement

Friends, loyal customers, patrons of the arts — the time has come for C’ville Arts to join our retail neighbors on the Downtown Mall and throughout the area in closing our doors for a while. We will be closed at least through the end of the month and will re-evaluate at that time.

We are a small business comprised of 60 or so even smaller businesses and some of our members make a living with their art.

Please visit https://cvillearts.org/our-artists/ to explore the artists, many of whom have websites or Etsy stores where online ordering is available.

C-Ville Arts Closed Until The End Of The Month

We will be closed until the end of the month. If you would like to buy something from the shop please send us an email via our website and we will put you into contact with the artist.

C’ville Arts Features – “Collections of Things and Memories” – During March

Our talented member and popular painter, Milenko Katic will be the featured artist during March. He will be at the gallery to share his dreamlike collection of work during the Historical Downtown Mall’s First Friday event on March 6^th from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Here’s an introduction:

In 1984 Milenko moved from Belgrade (Serbia) to Dubrovnik (Croatia). Because of political turmoil as Yugoslavia was splitting into different countries, he moved to the US in 1989 thankfully landing in Charlottesville, Virginia.

His process begins with representational drawings, progressing to crayon and then broader more abstract brush strokes of paint to create a base for each multi-layered painting. He often works in a rhythmic cycle until the layers have come together to convey his intended vision. Katic relies on dreams, memory and observation as he contemplates composition, form and color, each canvas becoming a detailed storyboard charged with the sensation of one’s life flashing before their eyes. The cornerstone of his message speaks to the simple notion that we are born ‘pure’ and gradually, under the weight of societal influences and expectations, we lose our innocence.

There is a sharp contrast between Milenko’s earlier works and those more recent as he surrenders the simplistic childlike drawings to more complex renderings of “then” and “now”; the adult figures depicted showing signs of becoming robotic and emotionless, while the children appear unburdened and in tune with their yet unspoiled unconditional love of family, animals and nature.

To learn more about Milenko visit his web site http://milenkokaticartstudio.com/

For additional information, contact Amy Melville at 434-972-9500. The gallery’s web site is www.cvillearts.org. The C’ville Arts Cooperative Gallery, located on the historic Downtown Mall in Charlottesville, is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m.

ABOUT C’VILLE ARTS – C’ville Arts, a cooperative membership gallery of more than sixty local artists and crafters, was established in 1997. Original works include photography, painting, glass, fiber, clay and pottery, quilling, metals, mosaics, jewelry, leather, candles and wood.

C’ville Arts Features – “Drawing on Life with Laughter” – During February

C’ville Arts Features – “Drawing on Life with Laughter” – During February

Charlottesville, VA, January 24, 2020

Our popular and gifted illustrator, Jesse Bellavance will be the featured artist during February. He will be at the gallery to share his humorous, uplifting and local collection of work during the Historical Downtown Mall’s First Friday event on February 7^th from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Here’s a preview:

Originally, I worked for the Marine Corps as a contract Cartographer aboard MCB Quantico and then later for SNL Financial. During my time there, I developed an attention to detail while working with thousands of graphic elements on a map. I believe that helped me later with my style of drawing.

I began drawing in earnest about 5 years ago after reading the book, “Drawing On The Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards. Her method taught me how to look at an object and draw what I actually see rather than what I thought was there. Initially I worked in pencil and then moved on to using Micron Ink pens. On occasion, I will add a dash of watercolor to my ink drawings.

Creating whimsical drawings with animals that are humorous is something I really enjoy. For 2020 I even plan on starting a one panel comic strip. My guiding stars are Gary Larson’s, the Far Side and also Bill Watterson’s series Calvin and Hobbes.

My other favorite subjects are local Charlottesville area buildings that are the touchstones to our daily lives. Reid’s Grocery, Crozet Pizza, Fry’s Spring Station or Shenandoah Joes. All of these local places are important to us. It’s where we go to enjoy time with our friends and family or are simply places part of our daily routine.

To learn more about Jesse and his work visit his web site www.bellavanceink.com

[Show slideshow]

C’ville Arts Features – “The Studio Sale” – During January

C’ville Arts Features – “The Studio Sale” – During January
Charlottesville, VA, December 20, 2019

Join us for this unique opportunity to invest in the arts at rock bottom pricing! January is the month when our member artists slash prices on selective items. We’re making it possible for anyone on any budget to acquire locally handmade, high quality arts and crafts.

Don’t miss this chance to take advantage of the best deals around! Buy the best art work at the best prices possible! January is a great time to support and help advance your local creative economy. We’re here to help you, stop by and let our friendly membership staff brighten your day in the most imaginative way!

January is a cool month for such a hot sale!

C’ville Arts Features – “A Clothesline of Characters” – During December

Mary Whittlesey owner of Mountaintop Needlecrafts shares her imaginative, handknit line of puppets, mittens and hats for children, toddlers and infants in December. She will be at the gallery during the Historic Downtown Mall’s First Friday celebration on December 6th, from 6 – 8 p.m. to share her endearing warm collection.

Mary started knitting at the age of 7 and as a third-generation knitter, her talent is a joy to see. Using high quality materials like washable wool, acrylics, and occasionally mohair or alpaca to bring her darlings to life, each design touches your heart with softness you will remember. Knitting puppets with her unique designs inspired by creatures from the natural woodlands in Vermont where Mary used to live. She makes fun loving frogs and adorable ducks to fancy foxes or huggable brown bears, Mary knits amazing animals and so much more.

Whittlesey creates playful, mitten style puppets for toddlers and infants with hats to match! If your family is heading out to gameday she has that covered too, making sets with color combinations that support your favorite teams. Her hat designs go beyond gameday colors to include delightful strawberry, pumpkin, watermelon, and even bumble bee patterns. If you’re looking for a high quality, handmade gift for that special little love, search no more, Mary has the art to capture your heart this gift giving season.

For more information about Mary’s work contact her via email marywhittlesey@gmail.com

Refreshments will be provided by Mezeh Mediterranean Grill in Stonefield.

For general information, contact Amy Melville at 434-972-9500. The gallery’s web site is www.cvillearts.org. The C’ville Arts Cooperative Gallery, located on the historic Downtown Mall in Charlottesville, is open on Monday-Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m.

[Show slideshow]

C’ville Arts Features – “Octabusy” Book Signing – On December 14th

Susan Jane McCulley, an inspirational artist, writer, and talented member of C’ville Arts will make an exclusive appearance at the gallery to sign and demonstrate the artful process of making her new book Octabusy on Saturday, December 14^th from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Susan Jane McCulley’s latest book, Octabusy: How To Let Go in a Sea of Doing, is for anyone who’s ever felt their lives were run by a To Do list. In this playful fable, Octabusy lives in The Sea of Doing and is positively sure that love goes to the one who does the most…and she does the most. She is also stressed. And tired. After an unexpected visit to The Sea of Being, she learns that there is another way. Each page is a hand-made, mixed media collage that reminds readers of all ages to practice being in their doing. And sometimes, to have the mindful discipline to do nothing.

Susan Jane McCulley is an artist, author, illustrator, and teacher. Her mixed media art invites delight and insight, and inspires creative connection. Her simple, playful illustrations invite mindfulness, curiosity, and appreciation for everyday wonders. Her first book, Buddha Cat: Learning Awareness, Presence & Self-Care from a Teacher Who Sometimes Barfs on the Bed, is a humorous reminder of priorities and perspective. She lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, with her husband, Frank, and her Buddha Cat, Phoenix.

To learn more about Susan and her work visit her web site susanmcculley.com

[Show slideshow]

C’ville Arts Features – “A Clothesline of Characters” – During December

Charlottesville, VA, November 20th, 2019

For more information about Mary’s work contact her via email maywhittlesey@gmail.com

Refreshments will be provided by Mezeh Mediterranean Grill in Stonefield.

ABOUT C’VILLE ARTS – C’ville Arts, a cooperative membership gallery of more than sixty local artists and crafters, was established in 1997. Original works include photography, painting, glass, fiber, clay and pottery, quilling, metals, mosaics, jewelry, leather, chocolates and wood.

[Show slideshow]

C’ville Arts Features – “The Art of the Circle” – During November

[Show slideshow]

Gillian Ruffa, a gifted jeweler and textile artist, explores inspiring and symbolic representations of the circle. She will be at the gallery during the Historic Downtown Mall’s First Friday celebration on November 1st, from 6 – 8 p.m. to share her delightful new collection.

The shape of a circle has been used as a symbol since the beginning of time. You find circles everywhere in life, in science, nature, math, in languages, and in art through the ages. It can universally represent a range of things from Mother Earth to the sun or moon. As a jeweler and small business owner, suitably named “Striking Metal”, Gillian incorporates the circle in her designs naturally. Developing circular impressions on copper and silver are characteristic of her work. Introducing intimate spherical sparkles of a gem or hammered disc suspended in the center of her designs catch light with the slightest movement. Her fashionable pieces have a delicate voice and beckon one to come, look a little closer.

Gillian also creates elegant and colorful scarves. Her fabric selections are high quality, soft, silky smooth materials that wrap a circle of style and comfort around you with a graceful accent. Each scarf is hand dipped in unique dyes using a process that will ensure long lasting, timeless quality.

The gift giving season is upon us. Whether you’re hoping to find a perfect gift for a friend, loved one or yourself, “The Art of the Circle” is a collection including bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings, and scarves. With a fresh sense of style, you’ll find Gillian’s circles in art hard to resist.

Contact Gillian directly for more information about her work via email gillsies@ymail.com

Refreshments will be provided by Mezeh Mediterranean Grill in Stonefield.

C’ville Arts Features – “Pattern and Color Play: A Journey with Polymer Clay, Stone and Wood” – During October

Wood turner, Floyd E. Johnson (known as Pete) and polymer clay artisan, Judith N. Ligon have teamed up together to create some beautiful, delightful and fun collaborative works as well as created in their individual self-expression in a joint show as featured artists at C’ville Arts Cooperative Gallery for the month of October. You can meet them at C’ville Arts Cooperative Gallery during the Historic Downtown Mall’s First Friday event on October 4, 2019 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Geometric turned shapes, like circles in squares or triangles, are often what one will see in Pete’s work although it is the unique grain or pattern of the wood which often dictates what the finished product will be. At times, Pete’s style is influenced by classical antiquities like that which he saw during his travels in Europe years ago. He often prefers to turn Bradford Pear for its workability and Maple or Cherry for their appearance and ease of finishing. Judith is known for her use of color and pattern or design in her polymer clay cane work botanical creations and with Fall being her favorite time of year with all the colorful leaves, it has been an interesting, exciting and fun journey to combine her vision with Pete’s knowledge and expertise of wood and woodturning. So be prepared for color, color play, leaves, pods, interesting wood, sticks and stones, etc. Nature has some rather neat stuff to create with.

Refreshments will be provided by Mezeh Mediterranean Grill in Stonefield.