Corliss R. Owen: Roots & Rhythms

Opening September 1, 2024

Celebrating the Timeless Beauty of Folk Art: Drinking Gourd Gallery Presents Solo Exhibition of Works by Corliss R. Owen

Artwork: Corliss R. Owen. Jam Session, 2013 

Drinking Gourd Gallery is proud to partner with Southeast Regional Library to present Corliss R. Owen: Roots & Rhythms. This solo exhibition of folk art explores the narratives of resilience, resistance, and empowerment. Inspired by memory, nature, history, everyday events, religion, and rural life, Corliss R. Owen creates a rich tapestry with vibrant, expressive works that capture the essence of life and heritage.

Through a retrospective collection of paintings and prints, Roots & Rhythms features more than 30 works created between 2006-2024. As a person who came of age during the 1960s, Owen honors her heritage, by weaving the history of Black people from slavery to Emancipation to the Civil Rights era to the present day with her art. The works speak to our perceptions and understandings of American history and art history. The power of Owen’s work rests with her ability to communicate a shared experience that resonates with people, regardless of their background or ethnicity.

The exhibition focuses on six key themes, each offering a glimpse into the artist’s inspirations:

  • Ancestral Echoes: Works that honor the legacy and wisdom of the foremothers and forefathers.
  • Historical Narratives: Powerful pieces that reflect historical events and figures.
  • Daily Life and Community: Scenes from everyday life, emphasizing the simple moments that unite us.
  • Spiritual Reflections: Works revealing the role of faith and spirituality in Owen’s life and art.
  • Femininity and Power: Works that center women and girls as subjects, encouraging reflection about the power of their voices and how they are represented in society.
  • Innovative Expressions: The artist's blending of traditional techniques with contemporary insights.

Through Roots & Rhythms, Corliss R. Owen offers visitors a space for learning, reflection, and connection. Join us in celebrating Owen’s creativity and vision and experience powerful narratives that inspire and uplift.

ASSOCIATED PROGRAMMING 

YOUR’E INVITED! Join us for a series of exciting programs to connect, learn and be inspired! All events are free and open to the public.

Opening Reception & Artist Talk. Thursday, September 12, 2024, 6:30 – 8:30 PM. Artist Corliss R. Owen will discuss her creative process and inspirations. Featuring Guest Vocalist Dr. Joy Bryant, Soprano and Piano Accompanist Martha Abernethy. Light refreshments.

Southern Fried Wisdom: Oral Recipe Sharing. Sunday, September 15, 2024, 2:00 – 4:00 PM. Come together with us to celebrate and preserve culinary traditions. Participants will share a brief story or memory associated with a recipe. Plus, learn how to stencil a flour sack dish towel and create recipe cards.

Book Discussion. Saturday, September 21, 2024, 2:00 – 4:00 PM. Join us for an engaging discussion of the novel “Ours” by Phillip B. Williams.

Tracing Roots. Sunday, September 22, 2024, 2:00 – 4:00 PM. In this beginner-friendly workshop, participants will discover tools and resources for genealogy research. Presenter: Mr. Desi L. Campbell

The exhibition is made possible through a partnership with Barbara A. Outterson, Southeast Regional Library and the Wake County Public Libraries system. Additional support provided by Desi L. Campbell, Chef Lucas Albrecht, Kiki Piper, and Martha Abernethy.

About the Artist

Corliss R. Owen considers herself to be a visionary folk artist, and she has been painting for more than 60 years. Corliss enjoys experimenting with different mediums and subjects in her artwork. She is a prolific artist whose body of work includes everything from crafting art for school classrooms to creating unique pieces using acrylic paints. Corliss is a North Carolina native and her work can be found in private collections in the United States.

Photography Notice: Artwork in the exhibition is copyrighted, but photographs are allowed. Please credit the artist when sharing images.