
4th Friday Prescott Art Walk
Christine Ryback – “Heads and Tales”
Friday, October 22 through November 22
Arts Prescott Cooperative Gallery is excited to present the beautiful handmade hats and paintings of Christine Ryback! Regarding the show title – “Heads” refers to her handmade hats, and “Tales” refers to her paintings telling a story.
Artist’s Statement:
Ever since I was a child, I enjoyed working with my hands. My live in Hungarian grandmother was a skilled seamstress and bestowed her knowledge on me, helping me with doll clothes early on, and by the time I was a high school student I made my entire wardrobe. I still use my sewing machine on a regular bases, though not to the extent I did when I lived in N.J., fabricating window treatments and all kinds of home necessities. I was self taught and did many projects working with decorators. Sewing window treatments enabled me to put our 3 children through college without loans.
I was an art major at Montclair State University in N.J. I was married, had children and as a stay-at-home mom, dabbled in whatever artistic endeavor I could. One of these was making concrete leaves which are cast from real leaves such as hosta, maple, rhubarb, elephant ear, many of which I grow myself. I displayed and sold these at the Jerome Artists Cooperative for 7.5 years.
During those years at the gallery, I became interested in oil painting and so I began taking lessons with a fellow member, and then a second member. I discovered that painting is a medium that is frustrating, challenging, relaxing, and rewarding, not necessarily all at once. It is a skill that is constantly evolving. The more I learn or know the more I don’t know. I can get lost in painting for hours on end. I am no longer a member of the Jerome Coop but have continued to paint and sew.
I have always used my talents to sell products, but that is not necessarily my main goal at present. I try to meet with another artist/friend to paint plein air when we can and my sewing machine never gets put away. My creativity is now for me to enjoy, though I do sell on Etsy (LoveFromChristine). I hope you enjoy my show displaying vintage style hats, and my paintings, prints, and cards.
If you are interested in any of my work, I can be reached at 928-999-4988 or 908-391-0528, or therybacks@hotmail.com
Meet the artist on Friday, October 22 with an Art Walk reception for Christine on Prescott’s 4th Friday Art walk from 5 to 8pm.
Refreshments will be served. Live music presented by “Zona” on vocals & guitar.
The show runs from October 22 through November 22.
The gallery is open daily from 10am – 6pm. Hand sanitizer available & face covering are recommended, but not required.
Arts Prescott Cooperative Gallery 134 S. Montezuma, Prescott, “In the Heart of Whiskey Row.”