First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ is launching an on-site art gallery, Palette To Table, with an exhibition called "The Artist's Eye – A Celebration of Nature."
The new gallery is in partnership with JUMPST/ART, a local company that helps outfit businesses with art via rotating galleries, purchases, specialized events, and design.
The show, which runs through the end of June, features more than 80 original fine art pieces in a variety of mediums by 21 local artists. Most will attend a Meet the Artist reception at the church Thursday, May 16 from 5-8 p.m.
All works featured in the show are for sale, with artists donating a portion of their sales to the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, said Gail Rich, church member and owner of JUMPST/ART, who curated the show.
First Christian was one of the seven area churches that founded the Community Kitchen in 1982. Church members continue to serve on the board and volunteer on a regular basis, as do some of the artists participating in the show, Rich said.
"Waking Up From Hibernation" by Lisa Bohnwagner is featured in "The Artist's Eye — A Celebration of Nature," a show on display inside First Christian Church. / Photo contributed by Gail RichRather than putting the church's new gallery in a room, the artworks are spread throughout the hallways of the church's main floor. The show is focused on artists' depictions of nature, including local scenes - such as the sunflower fields at Smith-Perry Berries in Ooltewah, which are featured in the works of three different artists.
"Artists have a way of getting to the heart of simple things around us, especially in nature, that we forget about or overlook," said Rich. "Their artistic talent is a gift from God, and their ability to share it with others is a gift as well."
"The Artist's Eye" is the first formal exhibit for the church's new gallery, the name of which references the Disciples of Christ denomination's central philosophy that "all are welcome to the table," Rich explained.
The presence of the artwork in the church's midcentury building has enlivened the space and energized the congregation, said Rich, who plans to hold two exhibits annually benefiting the Community Kitchen and other local charities.
Through her business, Rich said she represents 35 local artists and curates exhibits displayed in area clubs and businesses such as law firms.
In addition to displaying visual art, the church also wants to become a center for other types of artistic expression, education, and for reconciliation among groups in the community, said Rich.
"There's something here for everyone, no matter where they are on their faith journey," she said.
First Christian Church is at 650 McCallie Ave. Art can be viewed Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon, or by appointment Monday-Friday by calling 703-402-9862. For more information, visit firstchristian-chat.com or jumpstartart.net.
Email Emily Crisman at ecrisman@timesfreepress.com