CHANUTE — “Every painting has a story.”
And in artist Tom Ellis’ case, such stories weave together to form an ornate tapestry spanning an entire lifetime devoted to art.
Ellis’ new show, “Tom Ellis: A Life” opens Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Chanute Art Gallery, and will be available to view over the next two months.
The gallery’s regular hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
Believe or not, there are 970 pieces one can see from Ellis’ collection, ranging from larger oil paintings and drawings to collections of smaller sketches.
A special event will also take place at the gallery from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 3.
According to Ellis, “this second opening will be a ‘cultural happening,’ celebrating the Woodstock Generation with prizes for the most original or best outfits, including tuxedos and evening gowns.”
The event is called “Dress to Impress” and will feature free wine and sodas provided by servers adorned in some of Ellis’ own clothing designs.
“There will also be a room in the back of the gallery featuring ultraviolet artworks,” Ellis noted.
One thing the viewer notices immediately upon entering Ellis’ show space is the incredible variety in themes and styles of works, almost as if they’d been created by countless artists instead of a singular one.
Ellis suggested a couple reasons for said diversity, both professional and personal.
“In California, they want you to do something new every time you do a show. And that can be hard to come up with every year.”
The demands of the art world require constantly transforming oneself. “I make a conscious effort to not repeat myself, ever. Whenever I do something for the first time, I make a mental note, even if it’s brushing my teeth with my left hand” – Tom Ellis
That’s been no problem in Ellis’ case, though, for as he explained, “I make a conscious effort to not repeat myself, ever. Whenever I do something for the first time, I make a mental note, even if it’s brushing my teeth with my left hand.”
