The newest downtown hotspot for art opened just six months ago: Art in Bloom Gallery at 210 Princess Street. Owner Amy Grant renovated the space for months to get the old horse stable in shape, and it is full of paintings, sculptures, pottery, and various pieces that fit no category. Amy is a newcomer to Wilmington, but grew up in Fayetteville. Since retiring here from her career in Pennsylvania, she's reached out to the local creative community; this month, one section of the gallery is committed to a joint venture with The Dreams Center, an exhibit called Dreams in Bloom. The opening reception is the evening of Friday, April 29th, 6:00-8:00.
Three student curators from the Dreams Center have selected work from other students and teaching artists to exhibit at Art in Bloom. When I visited the installation of the exhibit, I found they were also practicing their skills at making delicious-and beautifully decorated-refreshments for the opening reception, including cupcakes that could be mistaken for flower blossoms. Helen Welsh from the Gallery has worked with Jamie Pinkston, Program Coordinator at Dreams, and students Ashley Bennette, Nydheri Brown, and Jemerit Roberts. Listen to the interview above to hear more about the show-and to find out what material was used to make the lovely bib necklace by Ashley Bennette in the photo.