EXHIBITION: Contraptions

Asheville artist Kathryn B. Phillips has always challenged her surroundings. Her art mimics her life: by letting go of others’ expectations, as well as her own, Phillips has found harmony in the constant struggle to nurture freedom while still respecting the boundaries of good design. Her latest work will be featured in Contraptions in the Milliken Art Gallery.

Phillips grew up in Eudora, Arkansas, exploring the wooded banks of the Mississippi River, collecting treasures from nature that very often became small vignettes in her family’s home. Her mother fostered in her the love of visual beauty, by transforming their gardens with her natural sense of design. Phillips was encouraged to participate in private art classes at a young age, and she eventually majored in Fine Art at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston.

Following her formal education, Phillips received further inspiration and tremendous encouragement from M. Douglas Walton. Waltons’ two-week intensive Watercolor Encounter courses allowed her the freedom to experiment and to explore the medium further. Phillips has worked to promote art in underserved communities and has taught and attended workshops on composition and painting techniques.

Since 1975, Phillips has participated in multiple juried exhibitions, as well as numerous group and solo shows, and has been featured in several interior design articles.

Contraptions will run from January 4-25, 2024. Phillips will present a Gallery Talk on January 11, 2024, at 6:00 pm in the gallery followed by a reception from 6:30-8:00 pm.

The exhibition is located in the Milliken Art Gallery and is free of charge. Gallery hours are Sunday 2:00-5:00 pm, Monday – Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm. The Gallery is closed during school holidays.

Artist’s website: http://www.kathrynbphillips.com/