Story by Steven Uhles
Defiant and deeply rooted in paradox, Bob Ray’s artwork pairs accessible visual storytelling with challenging ideas, techniques, and conceptual asides.
His images invite careful study, celebrating collision and contradiction while remaining open, energetic, and visually engaging. Each piece contains multitudes, launching conversations that unfold differently with every viewing.
CANDL Fine Art presents “The Day Smell of Mother’s Spring,” a new exhibition of paintings and drawings by the North Carolina–based artist, opening with a public reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6. An artist talk is scheduled for noon on Saturday, Feb. 7. The exhibition will remain on view through Friday, March 20.
Working in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, and performance, Ray draws inspiration from abstract impressionism as well as the Dada and Fluxus movements. The works in “The Day Smell of Mother’s Spring” feel both primitive and accomplished – keenly aware of the act of creation while resolving into complete, confident statements.
Ray’s work has been exhibited at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts at Appalachian State University, Lump Gallery in Raleigh, and most recently the Greenville County Museum of Art. CANDL Fine Art is pleased to bring this exciting and exploratory body of work to Augusta.
Located at 1128 Broad St,, CANDL Fine Art provides established artists connected to the Greater Augusta area an opportunity to present their work in a setting that fosters conversation, inspiration, and community. The gallery, open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, strives to serve as a creative hub—a modern salon where artists and ideas are celebrated.
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