dvaughan@heraldsun.com; 419-6563
DURHAM -- As the maintenance technician for Oldham Towers public housing in Durham, James McCullough sees the people who live there every day. They know he enjoys painting, so creative young residents like to show him their artwork. Now his art and theirs will be on display for the Durham Housing Authority's first community-based art show from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight in the Oldham Towers Community Center.
Along with McCullough, two teenagers and two college students who live in Oldham Towers will have their work displayed alongside four artists from Golden Belt, the factory-turned-arts space. Those who are established artists and those who aspire to be will have a chance to come together and share their work.
After McCullough brought his idea to his bosses, he began to ask around to find residents interested in showing their work. His pieces include two oil and acrylic paintings on black velvet called "Martin Luther King Jr." and "Psalm of David." The MLK painting is the civil rights leader's face. "Psalm of David" shows a shepherd tending to his flock. McCullough said his artwork is spiritually inspired, and he painted it after reading Scripture. He will also have a painting on canvas, "Ocean View," in the exhibit.
This will be the first time McCullough has had his work displayed in an exhibit. He studied art in Europe while stationed in Germany with the Army. He wanted youth to be part of something that would encourage them.
"I'm an aspiring artist, and I had a dream of working together with local artists, especially those who don't get to show their work," he said. "It's an opportunity to cross cultural barriers, and helps us promote harmony and togetherness."
DHA resident initiatives coordinator Antoinette Mills, said that DHA is always looking for ways to support its staff and residents.
"I've seen a spark in our residents who want to attend and participate," she said. Mills said the exhibit is great exposure for the city, residents and neighbors.
This exhibit, called "smART stART 4 the ARTS," is a chance for artists and the public to network, but no art will be sold on site. Mills said they might have future art exhibits, but first will see how this one goes.
WHAT: "smART stART 4 the ARTS" exhibit
WHEN: 6 to 8 tonight
WHERE: Oldham Towers Community Center, 519 E. Main St., Durham
FOR INFO: 683-1551
