Springfield artist provides visual symphony

VAN BUREN — Patrons poured into the Center for Art and Education (CAE) in Van Buren on Friday evening (Aug.10) for the August Gallery Opening Reception. The show entitled, Abstract Art: A Visual Symphony, featured the work of abstract artist Dale Augustson, as well as pieces by local educators Kara Holland and Marcus Koch.

Augustson’s collection included a variety of multi-media art, which incorporated everything from paint and clay to scraps of metal and broken jewelry. In explaining the different layers of After the Rain #2, one of his featured works, Augustson described the different materials he used to create the piece.

“I used an old necklace, as well as some broken glass and plastic to create this portion of the art,” said Augustson, pointing to one side of the picture. “Under here is an old shower curtain ring, and here, I just used some built up plaster and clear, high-gloss wax.” Such resourcefulness reflected throughout his exhibition, resulting in unique works rich in color, texture and unique elements. 

Based in Springfield, Mo., Augustson also uses his talents to help teach others and share his passion for art. He teaches multi-media art classes at Ozark Technical Community College in Springfield and at North Arkansas College in Harrison.

A reception was also held for local art teachers Kara Holland and Marcus Koch, whose collections will be on display in August in the center’s Studio Gallery. 

“This was the first time in a very long time that we have had a gallery featuring the works of area art educators,” said Jane Owen, CAE executive director. “These exhibitions will encourage you to ponder the world around you.”

Inspired primarily by nature, Holland’s works included a variety of vegetable and legume ceramic pieces.

“Kara’s unique approach to clay provides the desire to touch and feel the many forms of texture,” said Owen. One of Holland’s most unique pieces was a giant ceramic peach pit she crafted. The show also included a beautiful set of her mugs, bowls and tumblers.

Koch’s pieces ranged from political satire to realistic works of art. A multi-medium artist, Koch’s collection included small, hand-crafted sculptures, such as Social (In)Security, to large, colorful paintings such as The Relief of Freedom, complete with a three-dimensional cigarette.

Both Holland and Koch are art teachers at Van Buren High School. Several of their current and former students came to the reception to show their support and see their teachers’ work. Many of their colleagues were also in attendance.

In addition to the unique art on display, two of the artists’ spouses showcased their musical abilities in the upstairs and downstairs galleries. Augustson’s wife, Darice, played the harp during her husband’s show, while Kara Holland’s husband, Dave, entertained the crowd with his guitar at the educator’s reception.

“We really enjoy featuring local artists alongside those artists we bring in from around the region,” said Owen. “It brings in different crowds and exposes us and our artists to more people.” The CAE has 11 different exhibits each year. Art is changed out monthly, with the exception of November, when art is displayed through the end of the year. 

Augustson, Holland and Koch’s art will remain on display at the Center for Art and Education through the end of August.