In what makes great material for a nightmare, Seneca artist Kent Ambler recently fell from a ladder, breaking both wrists. His right hand, now the “proud owner” of a metal plate, is functional enough to allow for some painting, but he’ll be taking a break from the woodcuts from which he is earning a good part of his keep. Influenced by the expressionists, Ambler described his work as guided by the gut, and the feeling is evident. Everyday material becomes deeply unsettling with the harsh cuts in the wood. The purity of a tiny bird is removed, leaving a stark image. A scene from downtown is depicted as bleak and almost jarring. Creating small pieces in high volume, it’s fascinating that the same feeling is triggered repeatedly, no matter how much they are viewed. There is a reason he is likely the area’s most successful working artist. No local shows are scheduled for the upcoming months, but see for yourself at www.kentambler.com.
Hub of the scene
Until last May, the area was screaming for a focal point in its scattered art scene. With the vision Debbie Pagano and Julie Peters, a generous anonymous donation and a chunk of grant money, local artists, green or great, now have Clemson’s Arts Center. The freshly opened space provides a gallery, stage and well-equipped studios. The summer was for youngsters but the fall will bring workshops for adults instructed by talented and established artists. All levels can sign up for classes in jewelry, pottery, printmaking, painting, photography and much more. If the classes are not of interest, several events scheduled for the second half of the year offer an opportunity to see what the space is about. An auction on Sept. 21 showcasing the work of local artists and a Murder Mystery Dinner Party along with an opening on Oct. 27 are all set, and be sure to pencil in their December holiday sale once a date is nailed down. Make use of this space – a city the size of Clemson is lucky to have such an invaluable resource. Visit online at www.explorearts.org
Bohemian hangout
Fast food is disgusting, Starbucks is overrated and you can’t eat at Pancho’s everyday. This means the best bet for atmosphere, a belly full of cheap, tasty food and a decent caffeine fix is at Central’s Main Street Deli. Crafted into a relaxed, charming hangout for those who appreciate what makes a restaurant worth more than bite to eat, it’s also a great place – most of the time – to find work by local talent on the walls. The best part is, they have purchased the space next door and will soon be expanding. A new stage will mean a little more elbow room during their Friday evening music showcases and a space for private parties. Visit online at www.uberdeli.com.
