From Left: Karen Sewell and Jenny Traynham. Photo credits: Daniel Roberson
The world may seem bleak and full of uncertainty in these troubled times, but there is a real sweet spot where visitors are sure to find a consistent font of artistic creativity and aliveness! That sweet spot is A New Leaf Gallery in Floyd, Virginia. This is a gallery where fourteen local artists have come together to express passion and enthusiasm for a shared field of endeavor…art!
The lively energy at A New Leaf Gallery comes from the wide diversity of quality art that is kept fresh and current with the artists’ newest works. Displayed on crisp muslin wall panels and pedestals, the works are tastefully arranged for easy viewing and for clear passage. Visitors may find that the gallery setting is like a beautifully proportioned frame containing a fine work of art.
The variety of art to be found at the Gallery includes free-standing alabaster sculptures, relief wood-carved wall hangings, and paintings in oil, acrylic and watercolor. There are also encaustic (beeswax) paintings, block prints, scarves of nuno wool felting, photography, ceramic and clay works, stained glass sculptures and hangings, books by local writers, and creative greeting cards.
Visitors will also be enthralled with fine jewelry made from various materials such as sterling silver, precious stones, wrapped wire, and stamped leather.
The artists themselves help to generate the stimulating atmosphere found in the Gallery’s environment. The space is staffed by the artists, so visitors may be welcomed by a professional writer, a teacher, a nurse, a musician, a business owner, an architect, a physician, or even an environmental activist. In addition to the art, discussion is always on the menu for any who wish to exchange ideas with the artists. The varied backgrounds, expertise, and personal experiences bring a wide range of perspectives that are often expressed in the art as well as in thoughtful conversation.
Though the Covid virus resulted in tough distancing restrictions that kept people from socializing, it can be said that the constraints served to awaken humanity’s deep physical and psychological need to be together. Close connections among the New Leaf Gallery artists directly contribute to the Gallery’s feel for being the physical manifestation of a cohesive unit.
Soon after social gathering guidelines were eased earlier this year, Gallery artists gathered for a potluck and business meeting in the pavilion adjacent to the Station. The gathering was invigorating, and the shared food was delicious! It was the first opportunity to reunite with friends who hadn’t been seen in over a year. The opportunity was also taken to welcome three newcomers: Bob Rotche, Rene Armstrong, and Ruth Lefko! Formal introductions around the circle reminded the group of the depth of talent and diversity among the artists, as well as the flat-out joy of being together.
There is something about A New Leaf Gallery that’s especially important in these times, and that’s synergy. The gallery is an LLC business with two financially responsible owners, Karen Sewell and Jenny Traynham, who are responsible for making the final decisions. Meanwhile, the twelve other participating artists share in the task of keeping the Gallery thriving with a vibrant spirit of cooperation. Those mutually beneficial bonds lend to the idea of the whole being greater than the sum of its individual parts. Each artist has an agreed upon role in contributing to the well-being of the Gallery. It’s been an ongoing process of learning to work together, not only for the success of each artist, but for the success of a Gallery that has a mission to support and promote local art while contributing to the creative arts culture in Floyd and beyond.
“Turning over a new leaf” is a popular phrase that means making a positive change or growth. The name, A New Leaf Gallery, reflects the Gallery’s intention to be flexible as new opportunities arise. For example, the rapidly evolving marketplace requires the rapid adaptation of marketing skills. In keeping with this concept, A New Leaf Gallery has developed a promotional team that works to better understand the customer’s interest. It is their task to engage and inspire viewers through daily postings on social media sites. The Gallery’s handsome website includes an online store with offerings from all Gallery artists, timely announcements, interviews with the artists, and short biographies of each artist.
Ready for the fall holiday buying season? A New Leaf Gallery is announcing its new Buffalo Art Boxes! What local feature can possibly be linked to Floyd County better than Buffalo Mountain? There’s a surprise in very box for art lovers who love being surprised. Within each box is a small piece of Floyd that can be taken home by newly inspired collectors, reminding them of their visit.
The small, 8×8 inch, tastefully wrapped boxes come in various gold, black, and white combinations, and are priced at $85, shipping included. They can be purchased individually or by yearly subscription featuring four boxes per year. Every surprise box holds a piece of original, quality art by a New Leaf Gallery artist.
A New Leaf Gallery invites visitors to its fine arts gallery inside The Station across from The Floyd Country Store. New guest artist exhibits are scheduled every two months with First Friday Receptions to honor the featured guests. For more information about the artists, the work on display, or for scheduled events and exhibits, visit online at anewleaf-gallery.com. Also, follow A New Leaf Gallery on Facebook.
A New Leaf Gallery • 540-745-7367
Karen Sewell and Jenny Traynham
203 South Locust Street, Suite J, Floyd, VA
www.anewleaf-gallery.com