Unless you’ve been living under a Monet-inspired painted rock for the past two-plus decades, you probably know the name Dan Gibson.
The local artist, who insists on bettering his craft every single day, is involved in just about every facet of the local community. And that community is celebrating both his works and his generosity with an exhibit in the Edith Davis Gallery through Oct. 15.
“I’m very proud to have my exhibit, “My World” displayed at Rose Center, a very special place for me,” Gibson said. My work in the exhibit is an array of different styles of art I create. The exhibit will consist of acrylic, graphite, pastels, watercolor, ink and acrylic on eggshells glued to the canvas. Most of my ideas for my paintings come from somewhere in my mind, dreams and deep emotions. Art is a wonderful experience.”
The “My World” exhibit will be on display through Oct. 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It’s surprising, to be honest, that Gibson could find the free time to show off his art a bit.
In addition to holding instructional classes at Rose Center and the Senior Center, sponsoring several of his popular Paint and Sip classes as auction items for nonprofit fundraisers, actively promoting the Morristown Art Association, attending and documenting on social media community events including live music concert series and volunteering at the Rose Center artists gallery – Gibson takes the time and effort to encourage and support fellow artists.
He was one of the first local artists to utilize Facebook, not only to sell a number of the daily paintings and other items he creates but to also share the joy he finds in the small things of daily life: flowers, the view from various spots on his property, photos from day trips around the area and, of course, the paintings that are created during his instructional classes.
Those following his social media path over the years have enjoyed seeing the marked improvement of his students from the early classes to those more current.
His effective teaching methods have resulted in a number of local artists who now confidently sell and donate their own works to benefit the community.
His easy-going, humourous - and very humble - attitude during his paint and sip parties makes for great entertainment, especially for those of us who are a little ‘challenged’ with regard to artistry. He’s been known to say, “The more you sip, the better you paint.”
Gibson does not limit his patience and encouragement to adults. He also participates in local programs for children and youth that are designed to encourage creativity, through Hamblen County Schools and nonprofit organizations.
Gibson is a native of Scott County and now makes his home in Hamblen County. He has been painting for more than 50 years, and he still has the passion to paint every day. He has made his home in Morristown for the last 25 years.
Before moving to Morristown he lived in Knoxville, and was very active in the local art scene. He was a member of the CHROMA Art Association where he exhibited his art in the Knoxville area including monthly showings at the Bijou Theatre and in the Market Square area of downtown.
One of his proudest achievements was having his art in an exhibit at the Knoxville Museum of Art and his paintings showcased on a local television station.
Gibson is also an active member of Encore Theatrical Company and has performed on stage. He plays guitar and has been known to sing, if the occasion calls for supporting an arts or cultural event. (No word yet as to whether he will break out the guitar during the reception).
His well-known teaching skills have garnered him invitations to hold classes at Hale Springs Inn in Rogersville and a number of private homes throughout the area.
Since the 1990s, Gibson’s artwork has been shown in several locations in Tennessee. His work has been accepted into many juried art shows and has won numerous awards.
“I like for people to relate to my work in their own personal way,” Gibson said. “Most of my paintings tend to be very colorful and vibrant. I hope the viewer will be drawn into my paintings and have their own interpretation of what they see and feel. I want my art to evoke different emotions.”
A challenge Gibson faces as an artist is the fact he is colorblind. Fellow artists have said it gives his work individuality. Gibson’s work is quite varied. He creates in several mediums and paints in different styles.
Years ago, painting helped Gibson to overcome major depression.
“I paint every day and I enjoy the serenity it gives back to me,” he said, “Art is my Life and life is my Art.”
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