April Trunk Show Featuring Elaine B. Jewelry

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery invites the public to its first trunk show featuring Elaine B. Jewelry. During PONSHOP’s First Friday reception on April 4 from 6-10pm, indulge in the elegant, handmade Elaine B. Jewelry. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a "Ladies' Night Out" and find beautiful jewelry to compliment your spring wardrobe.  Due to its popularity, we will also be extending our most recent exhibit Facades: New Work by Gabriel Pons throughout the month of April.

Elaine B. Jewelry (Charlottesville, VA) approaches her wearable art with a strong design aesthetic and attention to detail producing chic jewelry fitting for every occasion. Her jewelry is lightweight, geometry-inspired and from recycled metals perfect to be worn daily or for a special event. Elaine admits, “[my] favorite objects are airy and simple, yet thoughtful. I find this especially important when it comes to things that I wear. I create tiny sculptural worlds using traditional jewelry materials and incorporate geometric elements to make objects that are physically light, yet have weighty presence.” With Elaine’s consideration for the wearer and any occasion she may attend, her jewelry is effortlessly striking.

We take pride in showcasing one-of-a-kind jewelry created with genuine heart and soul by artisan hands with a sensibility for comfort, design, and aesthetics. Visit the PONSHOP to see additional jewelry from artists Terresa Buelow, Matthew Cirello, Lisa Latendress, Jodi Habel, Erica Voss, Trish Schornagel, Leslie Brier, Elisa Shere, Silvia White, Gilhousen Studio, Jasmine Lee and Daphne Olive, as well as brand new ceramic work from Scarlett Suhy-Pons.

"Facades" Art Exhibit Announced

Gabriel Pons will be premiering his latest work in March at PONSHOP Studio and Gallery. Titled Facades, this mixed media series on custom-shaped wood panels are evocative of architectural forms that have been pervasive in his work throughout the years.  Incorporating paper collage, acrylic paint and spray paint, Pons reflects upon his experiences living in New York City as well as traveling throughout Europe. His work combines the formal sensibility of architectural structures with spontaneous and gestural painterly actions emulative of what he has observed in city streets, layering found imagery, text, and handwritten prose.  “The city has a way of looking back at you sometimes and speaking to you – that’s the inspiration for this current series”, Pons remarked.

Join us March 7 from 6-10pm for the opening reception of Facades to view Pons’ latest mixed media pieces. In addition, visit PONSHOP to see new ceramic work from Scarlett Suhy-Pons, jewelry from Elaine B., Elisa Shere and many others as well as fine art from contributing regional artists.

Opening Reception: Friday, March 7 (6-10pm)

Exhibition Dates: March 7-28 2014

Student Work 2013: Kids Collage and Mixed Media

Do not believe the misconception that if you cannot draw, then you are not artistic! In three 1.5 hour classes, students were introduced to various techniques, including collage, stenciling, ink, and more. From developing beginning ideas to executing mixed media artwork, instructor Gabriel Pons, guided students in strengthening the connection between the creative mind and hand. Students completed this course with a finished piece on canvas.

Come join us at the PONSHOP with your ideas and we will supply all materials and instruction. Click Here to view our current class schedule.  For further questions, contact PONSHOP.

Student Work 2013: Intro to Street Art

Students honed their stenciling and spray-painting skills in this series of three 1.5 hour workshops. Instructor Gabriel Pons lead the class in developing their designs, cutting paper stencils, and perfecting their spray-painting.  Working on various media, including wood panels and vinyl records, students leave the course with a work of art and the knowledge to continue making on their own.  Below is a selection of photos from our 2013 series of "Intro to Street Art" classes:

Want to be introduced to the street art? Come join us at PONSHOP with your ideas and we will supply all materials, instruction, and history of street art.  Click Here to view our current class schedule.  For further questions, contact PONSHOP.

Student Work 2013: Leslie Brier Workshops

 

Local mixed media artist Leslie Brier has offered many workshops here at PONSHOP ranging from jewelry making, robot building, and assemblage art. By checking out the photo gallery below, you can see what happened last year including zen tangle drawings and recycled arts. In 2014, Brier has already shared her expertise on collage and assemblage techniques. Coming up in March are her jewelry courses on creating rolled paper beads and earring construction.

Brier's courses are perfect for students of all skill levels interested in a one-hour workshop.  Click Here to view our current class schedule.  For further questions, contact PONSHOP. Cost includes all materials and you leave with your own one-of-a-kind art piece!

Student Work 2013: Skate to Create

In this series of three 1.5 hour workshops, students of all skill levels designed and painted their own skateboard deck using stencil and spray paint techniques.  Instructor Gabriel Pons guided them from initial brainstorming through developing their illustrations into a layered stencil design.  After refining their designs, students chose their color palette, cut their stencils, and spray-painted their own boards.  Below is a selection of photos from 2013's Skate to Create workshops.

You leave this class, Skate to Create, with a one-of-a-kind art deck of your own design and the knowledge to make many more! To create a custom skateboard, bring your ideas and PONSHOP will supply all materials and stenciling/spray painting instruction. Click Here to view our current class schedule.  For further questions, contact the PONSHOP.

February First Friday Opening Reception

Friday, February 7 was the opening reception of our February First Friday exhibit featuring new artists, Elisa Shere and Elaine B.  Below are photos from the opening night.  Thank You to all of our fans for braving the weather to pay us a visit!

RACSB Releases Call to Artists: Tenth Annual "The Art of Recovery" Exhibit

Fredericksburg, Virginia – Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB) is currently seeking entries for the Tenth Annual “The Art of Recovery” exhibit. The art show features original artwork by adults with mental illness. The show is organized by members of Kenmore Club, RACSBs psychosocial clubhouse for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. The exhibit will open Friday, May 2, 2014 at The PONSHOP Studio and Gallery on Caroline Street in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The opening corresponds with ‘First Fridays.’ The exhibit runs through May 31, 2014 and coincides with National Mental Health Month. The Art of Recovery provides a forum for artists living with mental illness to gain confidence in their abilities, address misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and experience community support.  Below is a cross section of photos from the past ten years of "The Art of Recovery" exhibits.

The RACSB is accepting original drawings, paintings, sculpture, textiles, prints, mixed media, and ceramics. Individuals wishing to submit their work have until April 1, 2014 to contact Helen Conley. Submissions may be in the form of photographs. Visit www.racsb.state.va.us for an entry form and display instructions.

Entries must be accompanied by a completed entry form with the following requested information: name of the artist; year of completion (if known); locale of the artist; dimensions; medium; and sale price. The PONSHOP will apply a reasonable commission on all artwork sold. Selections will be made by April 11, 2014.

To submit artwork or to learn more, contact Helen Conley at 540-373-7737 or artofrecovery@racsb.state.va.us. Submissions may also be mailed to RACSB, attn: Art of Recovery, 600 Jackson St., Fredericksburg, VA 22401.

PONSHOP Welcomes Two New Jewelry Artists for February

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery cordially invites the public to our First Friday Opening for the month of February on Friday, February 7 from 6-10pm.  Just in time for the Valentine’s Day Holiday, PONSHOP has expanded our line of jewelry artists with the addition of Elisa Shere and Elaine B Jewelry: Elisa Shere (Seattle, WA) creates handmade pieces using recycled materials using traditional metalsmithing techniques, such as piercing, soldering and riveting. Her work is inspired by the textures, colors and shapes encountered in the Pacific Northwest.

Elaine B Jewelry (Charlottesville, VA) enjoys creating functional art with interesting details that compliment elegant design.  Her lightweight, geometry-inspired pieces are meant to be worn everyday.

We take pride in showcasing original handmade jewelry made with genuine heart and soul by artisan hands with a sensibility for comfort, design, and aesthetics.   In addition, PONSHOP features jewelry by Leslie Brier, Terresa Buelow, Matthew Cirello and Jasmine Lee as AMORDIVIN, Jodi Habel, Jeff Gulick, Lisa Latendress, Trish Schornagel, Erica Voss, and Sylvia White.

The gallery will also be exhibiting artwork by gallery artists Adam DeSio, Cameron Limbrick, Crystal Rodrigue, Kevin Rodrigue and Nicholas Candela with new ceramics by co-owner Scarlett Pons.

Our Town Series: St. George's Episcopal Church, Fredericksburg

Scarlett has been hard at work in the ceramic studio throughout the month of November and December creating a new line of pieces inspired by St. George's Episcopal church in Fredericksburg, Virginia.  The church sculptures are part of a larger project Scarlett has called "Our Town" - where she chooses iconographic structures in the historic downtown to be recreated as miniatures for the home.  She has recently completed an edition of ten of these illuminated architectural sculptures and is currently available to take orders for more ($395 each).  Inquires can contact us Here.

2013 Jewelry Show (Recap)

Below are pics from our annual Jewelry Show which took place on Friday, November 1, 2013.  We featured the works of Leslie Brier, Terresa Buelow, Matthew Cirello and Jasmine Lee as AMORDIVIN, Jodi Habel, Lisa Latendress, Trish Schornagel, Erica Voss, and Sylvia White.

January "Holiday Hangover Party" Announcement

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery is excited to announce our January “First Friday” Holiday Hangover party.  Why stop the festivities just because the New Year hasarrived?  We invite our fans to visit us and enjoy all of our offerings from local artists.  The gallery will be featuring fine art by Leslie Brier, Cameron Limbrick, Crystal Rodrigue, Nicholas Candela, and James Walker and new ceramics by co-owner Scarlett Pons.  We continue to feature over thirty artists creating everything from fine art and ceramics to jewelry, clothing, and accessories for the home. Join us on Friday, January 3 from 6-10pm for a special evening celebrating the creativity of our local community.

December Small Works Show Announced

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery is excited to celebrate the holidays with their annual small works show in December.  The opening reception will be “First Friday” December 6, from 6-10pm. This year’s small works show will include new ceramic work by PONSHOP co-owner Scarlett Pons, who has created Fredericksburg themed mugs, Ramen bowls and ceramic ornaments in a variety of colors and patterns. Gabriel Pons will be releasing his latest T-shirt designs: the Octopus (green and white) and the “Hip Hop Origins” Tee.  The gallery is also filled with new work from nine jewelers, four t-shirt vendors as well as handmade home accessories from local artists.  Gift inspirations include limited edition art prints, custom painted skateboards, comic book wallets and plush toys.

The gallery walls will include a group show of small works by featured PONSHOP artists including: Cameron Limbrick, Adam Desio, Steven Graham, Julie Maida, Crystal and Kevin Rodrigue, Stacey Schultze and James Walker.

For our customer’s convenience, PONSHOP will have extended holiday hours Friday and Saturday from 10am–8pm, Sunday noon–5pm, and Monday through Thursday from 10am–6pm.

Exhibition Dates: December 6–31, 2013

Live in Art Show at Amelia Square: Photos

Saturday, November 9 was the opening reception for the "Live in Art" show at Amelia Square.  Below is a photo gallery of the exhibition which will be open through Sunday, December 8.  Thanks to all of our participating artists as well as Simply Home, Coldwell Banker Cyber Elite and Impressions for their contributions in making this event such a success.  View the Artist List and Click Here for more about the Live in Art show.

Live in Art Show at Amelia Square: Opening Reception November 9

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery is pleased to announce the “Live in Art” Showcase at Amelia Square (1099 Winchester Street, Fredericksburg).  The opening reception is Saturday, November 9, 2013. This is an exclusive opportunity to view and purchase artwork for the home.  PONSHOP is collaborating with Coldwell Banker Elite and Simply Home Builders, to host an exhibit in one of the recently constructed high-end brownstones at Amelia Square (located on the corner of Amelia and Winchester Street Fredericksburg). A select group of local and regional artists have been invited to participate in this event by contributing work that corresponds with the theme of the show “Live in Art” - reinforcing the residential nature of the project through professionally crafted artwork. Typically, the public views fine art in a gallery or museum setting. In this case, “Live in Art” features locally made fine art, ceramics and furniture where it resides once acquired – in the home. This is an opportunity to view and buy artwork in a comfortable and elegant setting and support the vibrant Fredericksburg art scene.  The selected artwork is decisively contemporary, and includes signature pieces that fit the spirit of these new brownstones constructed in historic Downtown Fredericksburg.

Gabriel Pons will be selling limited edition prints of one of the feature paintings from the show-a map of Fredericksburg that includes the entire historic downtown and the recent inclusion of the Amelia Square project.  Scarlett Pons will be including an eight-piece ceramic dinner set to be included in the dining room.  Local acclaimed furniture designer, Kaleo Kala will be exhibiting a new custom-built coffee table, and the walls of the home will be adorned with paintings from over ten artists.

“Live in Art” will be featuring work by: Leslie Brier, Daniel Christie, Adam Desio, Ashleigh Dueker, Betsy Glassie, Bill Harris, Kaleo Kala, Rob Landeck, Patte Ormsby, Carol Phifer, Scarlett Pons, Gabriel Pons, Ana Rendich, Crystal Rodrigue, Kevin Rodrigue and James Walker.

Mask and Mirror Workshop Announced

Gabriel Pons will be the guest instructor for a mask-making workshop called, "Mask and Mirror" at the Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center in November.  Online Registration is now open!

The "Mask and Mirror"  workshop explores the theme of adornment and how different cultures modify the surface of the body for decorative, aesthetic, and cultural purposes.  This fascination with marking and altering our appearance is evident in contemporary culture exemplified in the cosmetic industry and the mainstream proliferation of the tattoo industry.  Students will create their own mask using a prefabricated blank form and customize it using paper collage techniques, acrylic paint, and colored pencils.  The effort of the exercise will be to encourage students to "look within" themselves and project their passions, interests, and voice on a three dimensional canvas.  Whereas a conventional mask is meant to conceal one's identity, the intent of these masks is to reveal the student's personality and hopefully discover something new along the way.

When: Saturday, November 23, 2013 10am-noon.

Where: Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center (1001 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia)

Ages: 13+

Cost:  $45 per student

Register Here

Third Annual Jewelry Show Announced

PONSHOP Studio and Gallery are pleased to announce that they will be hosting the third annual jewelry show for the month of November showcasing the work of nine jewelry artists.  The opening reception is Friday, November First from 6-10pm.  The jewelry exhibit features the works of Leslie Brier, Terresa Buelow, Matthew Cirello and Jasmine Lee as AMORDIVIN, Jodi Habel, Lisa Latendress, Trish Schornagel, Erica Voss, and Sylvia White. In keeping with the gallery’s format, the jewelry works in the exhibition are original pieces handmade by local artists.  The exhibit will feature a wide variety of materials including upcycled items such as silverware and wine bottles, beads, leather, ceramics, sterling silver, copper, brass, hand-colored resin, precious metal clay, as well as sea glass and dichroic glass.

The show will also include other jewelry works by Zakk Davis, Jeff Gulick and Courtney Fishback.  This exhibit will serve as a great “sneak peek” for what PONSHOP will be offering during the holiday season.  The gallery walls will include a group exhibition of featured PONSHOP artists including Nicholas Candela, Stephen Graham, Adam Desio, Crystal and Kevin Rodrigue, Gabriel Pons and more.

The Jewelry Show exhibit runs from November 1 – 30, 2013.

Opening Reception: October Group Show

Friday, October 4 was the opening reception of our Group Show featuring the work of Baltimore-based painter, Ashleigh Dueker.  Below are photos from that evening.  Thanks to all our fans who came out for the night and a big "thank you" to Ashleigh and her family for making the trek down from Baltimore.  October's Group show runs through October 27. Ashleigh's "Windows" series reflects upon her experiences over the past years working as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali, West Africa and her subsequent transition back to life in the United States.  The three works she's contributed to the October show, "An Unfinished Life", "Sojourn", and "Home" explore these recent experiences, touching on themes such as emotional closure, spirituality, and the inherent relationship that we create with our environment.

"Vivify" Mural Commission - Photos

Below is a chronology of the outdoor mural commission I completed for Vivify Burger & Lounge in Fredericksburg, Virginia.  I worked with the clients (who also own Bistro Bethem across the street) to produce a custom painting that embodied the charge of the new eatery. The concept sketch basically sent me on the path of formalizing my idea for Vivify.  "Vivify" means to bring movement and life to something.  The owners' goal is to host a space that pulses with the energy of the city's downtown, and that is also reflected by the tastes and smells from the eatery and lounge.  What better way  to express the vibrance of the lounge than  in a colorful "canopy" of words.  The piece turned into a family crest of sorts and incorporated the Bethem's names around the center.

The rear of the restaurant opens up to a two-story patio space with stairs leading to a roof deck which provides a great view of the city.  I was excited to work on such rich and fun project this summer.  Thanks to the Bethem family for the opportunity and thanks to my assistant, Jeff Gulick, for his consistent help throughout.

Fredericksburg's Second Annual Art Attack Event

Saturday September 14, 2013 marked the second annual “Art Attack” event in Downtown Fredericksburg.  Organized by Gabriel Pons and Bill Harris, "Art Attack" is a grass roots public art event open to any "recruits" that are willing to demonstrate their art for one day on the city streets.  The historic downtown was filled with  approximately eighty local and regional artists creating original artwork for all to see. The public witnessed a wide range of mediums from paintings and sculptures to drawings. Fine artists were not the only ones to come out and showcase their talents. Live performers such as belly dancers and musicians participated in the "Attack" also. At the end of day, all participants were invited to a picnic hosted by PONSHOP in the backyard of their gallery.  For more about Art Attack Fredericksburg, visit their Facebook Page.