MIKE MAJOR BRINGS SCULPTURES AND PAINTINGS TO BEAR'S MILL

Mike Major has created monumental bronze sculptures that can be seen across the country as well as playful paintings and evocative landscapes inspired by scenes near his home; the Urbana artist will bring his work to historic Bear's Mill during the month of October. “Mike's work is exquisite, meriting a one-man show in spite of our usual policy of featuring two artists in our “Art at the Mill” exhibits,” said Julie Clark, retail manager and gallery coordinator for Bear's Mill. “His paintings are gorgeous, his sculptures are awesome; we are thrilled to be able to display in our gallery the creations of this impressive artist,” she concluded. The exhibit will open on Friday, September 26 with a reception featuring hors d'oeuvres and drinks from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m.; the artist will speak briefly about his work, methods, and inspiration at 7 p.m. This exhibit continues through Sunday, October 26.

Mike Major has been working as a professional artist for over thirty-five years. For many Ohioans, Mr. Major's most important work is the bust of famed OSU football coach Woody Hayes that is the only such sculpture approved by the coach's widow Anne, who felt that the statue captured the spirit of the man. The Urbana artist says that he has loved to draw and mold clay since early childhood. “No other activity held my attention nearly as much as visual art; it became a daily source of entertainment and delight,” Mike explained He believes that sculpture is simply a step up from drawing, done in three dimensions rather than two. “It is a bit like swimming instead of walking and after a time, it seems as natural as breathing,” he stated.

Wood sculptures by Richmond, Indiana resident Tom Bartel and the watercolors of Peter Frederick remain on display at historic Bear's Mill through September 21. “Art At the Mill” receives financial support from Darke County Endowment for the Arts. Art exhibits are on view during regular Mill store hours, 11 a.m. till 5 p.m. daily. Historic Bear's Mill is owned and operated by Friends of Bear's Mill, a non-profit organization, and is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 937-548-5112 or www.bearsmill.com.