The following article was reproduced from the original from the Times-News, a daily newspaper by Times-News Publishing in Burlington, North Carolina, Thursday, November 21, 2002.
GIBSONVILLE -- Artist Walt Hodges wasn't sure if his abstract works should ever be viewed. The splashes of color, blended with dark contrasts, demonstrate what life was like for Hodges before, during and after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
"It was so emotional for me that I wasn't sure if people should see them," Hodges said. "It gave me a place to settle my own feelings about that day." But Jackson Pollock's quote, "Art always shows the sign of the times," inspired him to swallow his fears and display the works. An opening reception will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at Leon's Style Salon, 6307 Burlington Rd., Stoney Creek Village, where Hodges works as manager and stylist.
Leon's Salon has supported Hodges' artistic efforts in the past, allowing him to show his works throughout Guilford County salons, as part of the Leon's Art/Fashion Fusion project. The exhibit is the third show that Hodges has held since he decided to pursue art, three years ago. The Alamance County resident currently works as a stylist about 25 hours a week, and spends the rest of his time creating commissioned artwork. Having an exhibit at a hair salon, Hodges said, is a marriage of two creative outlets. "Not everybody goes to a gallery," he said. "But at some point, they get their hair done. Some of them are here for two to three hours at a time, so this gives them something to look at during that time."
A client already has purchased one of the paintings, "A February Morning," a happy, light colorful look at winter. The paintings range from surreal to busy, with the tone set by the particular time in Hodges's life. As one passes from painting to painting, the style varies from tight and bright to loose and carefree.
The mixed media exhibit will include 11 paintings, along with painted boxes, glassware and ornaments. Prices range from $8 to $400. In lieu of admission, Hodges is asking that patrons contribute canned foods or other nonperishable items to the Loaves & Fishes Christian Food Ministry in Burlington. "There's no other organization that is nearer or dearer to my heart," Hodges said. "I have so many friends who volunteer there and it does such good things for the community. Especially now, when so many people are going hungry. Anything we can do to help out is worth it."
Hodges is hoping the exhibit will continue through the holiday season, as a fund-raiser for Loaves & Fishes and as a way for folks to find unusual gifts. "It's been fun," he said. "I can't wait for others to see it."
For more information or directions, call 446-0280.
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