Guests at Mac And Joyce Payne’s home recently had the opportunity to experience performing art the likes of which is seldom (if ever) seen in Bastrop County. Anyone who knows this couple understands that they both have an interest in and love for all things Oriental. On the occasion of Mac’s birthday they invited a Vietnamese “Lion Dancing” group to perform in their back yard. The term “back yard” is almost an insult to this peaceful setting with trees, flowers, Japanese lanterns and Eastern style sculpture decorating it. The drum beats took me back to my stay in Singapore where I could hear the temple rituals from our hotel room. The dragons were a bit smaller than the Singapore ones which stretched nearly half a block in some cases, but these were as colorful and beautiful. The dancers were strong, enthusiastic, athletic and graceful (young, in other words). It scared me just a bit when Mac told me that the “Lion Dancers” would perform later in the day …. I thought he said “Line Dancers” and I began thinking of an excuse to leave early. Fortunately, I got him to repeat himself and I’m so glad I did for I once again got to enjoy the art of the Lion Dance.
Coming up as the featured artist for the month of June at the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild is Patricia Rendulic. Patricia is a glass artist like none I’ve ever seen before. One day I must get her to explain the process to me - I know she uses a kiln, a sandblaster, paints, glazes and lots and lots of talent! Her reception is this Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 at 1009 Main in Bastrop.
It’s becoming a bit of a tradition for us to attend the first Friday opening at the BFAG then mozey on down the street to the Lumberyard Music Hall. It’s always Open Mike night on the first Friday and we love performing and enjoying our friends talents. I hope a big crowd will join us.
Saturday is First Saturday in Smithville and that means ARTS FESTIVAL at the Gazebo on Main Street. Original works of art and craft presented by the artist who makes it! There will be great gifts available for Fathers’ Day, free craft projects for children, free entertainment and free rides on the Ann Powell train! What a deal, Don’t forget.
The R.A. Green Mercantile, sponsored by Calvary Episcopal Church on Main Street in Bastrop, is supporting the arts in a big way. The “Art Makers’ Collective”, consisting of Susan Hanft, Linda Neubauer, Susie Hettleman, Stephanie Strange, Anna Stanley and Michael O’Brien, opened their gallery last month and have been having such a good time (and success) that several more artists have joined to turn the property into a small “ART MALL”! Lea Cundy, Mark Cundy, Bill McGlaun, Jeanette Condray and yours truly have all rented spaces and are open for business. The building is at 1022 Main, just across from the BFAG and is open Thursdays through Saturdays with more hours to come. Please come and visit us.