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August 2, 2017

Press Release: COLLABORATIVE ART SHOW BY KATIE CURCIO AND HARRY CRANK ON DISPLAY AT THE SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER

Media Contact:

Kathy Hietala, Assistant to the Executive Director

276-619-4346

khietala@swcenter.edu

 

FOR IMMEDATE RELEASE

 

Collaborative art Show by Katie Curcio and Harry Crank on

Display at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center

ABINGDON, Va.–Growing up in Bristol, Katie Curcio was heavily influenced by the scenic views as well as the music of southwest Virginia.  About halfway through her college career, Curcio was fortunate to meet graphic designer/illustrator Harry Crank, who she says immediately began influencing her work through his own artistic insights.  The creative affinity attracting the two, along with their similar senses of humor and light-hearted approach, allows them to work together cohesively, resulting in the present collaboration.  Though profoundly different in individual style and approach, the finished works of the two artists are equally dynamic.

While both artists have always been cartoon-loving doodlers, Curcio considers herself more of a painter, while Crank prefers illustration.  He loves working with shapes and lines; she plays with color and value.  Together, they began experimenting with ways to combine aptitudes and wound up with—in Curcio’s words— some “goofy outcomes” that reflect their unique individual personalities.  Curcio likens their method of collaborating to the creation of a coloring book.  Both contribute ideas of what they hope to create, Crank then employs his skill with line work to sketch out the image and, finally, Curcio fills in the colors and values.  “This collection of paintings captures moments of inspiration from various subjects such as nature, musical expression, urban landscapes, and silly animation,” states Curcio.

A recent graduate of James Madison University, Ms. Curcio is currently working in Richmond, Virginia, for her teaching licensure.

We invite you to experience the feel-good vibe of artists who say, “We work for fun!”  Time Traveler will insist that you take a moment for a second look, and a third…and a fourth.  Cameron will put a song in your heart.  Orange & Blue will bring a smile to your face.  City Bridge will send you on your way with a lightness in your step.

Located on the second floor Art Wall, the exhibit will be on display through September, 2017, at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon.  Some of the paintings are available for purchase; prices upon request.  Admission is free.  For additional information, please contact the Higher Education Center at 276-619-4300.

 

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MISSION STATEMENT:  The mission of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is to strengthen the regional economy of southwest Virginia by providing higher education and professional development training of the current and future workforce.