New works by encaustic painter Dana Brown and clay artist Mary Lynn Portera draw inspiration from Chattanooga’s old foundries.The April exhibition at River Gallery will present new works drawn from two of Chattanooga’s historic foundries.
Alabama painter Dana Brown and local clay artist Mary Lynn Portera explored the ruins of the long-shuttered Wheland Foundry and U.S. Pipe & Valve Co. to find inspiration.
The work they’ve created “immortalizes the industry significance of Chattanooga’s history,” according to a news release.
Brown explores her subject through the medium of encaustic, capturing textures, shapes, structures and shadows in her paintings.
Portera’s clay sculptures are modeled on the strength and determination the foundries were built upon. She has incorporated found objects from the sites into her hand-built structures.
Both artists will be present at the opening reception Friday evening, April 1. Brown also will give a gallery talk from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2.
If you go
› What: Opening reception for April exhibition by Dana Brown and Mary Lynn Portera.› When: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, April 1.› Where: River Gallery, 400 E. Second St.› Phone: 423-265-5033, ext. 5.› Website: www.river-gallery.com.› Note: Exhibition will continue through April 30. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday and by appointment.