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Local artist Jane Newman captures memorable meals in latest series of paintings

Artist Jane Newman is tentatively titling this 36- by 48-inch acrylic on canvas "Exit 11," until she gets corporate permission to use the restaurant's name for her "Where We Eat" series.
Artist Jane Newman is tentatively titling this 36- by 48-inch acrylic on canvas "Exit 11," until she gets corporate permission to use the restaurant's name for her "Where We Eat" series. Artist Jane Newman is tentatively titling this 36- by 48-inch acrylic on canvas "Exit 11," until she gets corporate permission to use the restaurant's name for her "Where We Eat" series.

By Lisa Denton 4 min read

photo “The Spot” by Jane Newman refers to a restaurant in Cleveland, Tenn. The acrylic-on-canvas painting measures 30 by 30 inches.

If you go

› What: “Where We Eat” series by Jane Newman.› When: Through July 28; artist reception 5-7 p.m. July 13.› Where: Reflections Gallery, 6922 Lee Highway.› Admission: Free.› Phone: 423-892-3072.› Website: reflectionsgallerytn.com.

Anyone who’s ever sat across a restaurant table from local artist Jane Newman knows the food she’s ordered may be of less interest than her surroundings.

Before she picks up her fork, she’s likely to grab a cellphone camera to capture the scene in front of her. These tablescapes, collectively titled “Where We Eat,” have become a series of paintings on view at Reflections Gallery through the end of July.

While the scenes may differ in elegance and accoutrements – cloth or paper napkins, milkshake or wine glasses – Newman says each one in the series reminds her of a memorable meal at restaurants in Chattanooga or Cleveland, Tenn., where she grew up.

“I can look at each painting and remember the conversation shared – helping my daughter work through relationship issues over coffee and chocolate chip waffles; catching up with my son’s life plans and social life while enjoying pimento cheese on grilled sourdough with pickles; a relaxing dinner with my husband ending with fabulous chocolate cayenne pepper ice cream; solo lunch splurging on THE best french fries imaginable.”