Women of Distinction: If you can see it, you can be it

Pink Dog Creative

Aunt Lucy

An exhibit at Pink Dog Creative displays a prolific series of oil portraits by Joseph Pearson that recognize the women in his family and social circle who worked hard at home and in the community.

“I want this body of work to be a source of inspiration for the younger generation of girls and women as they strive to reach their potential,” states Pearson. “This will pay homage to the women of my family.”

Mayor

The desire to create this body of work came with the celebration of the 97 birthday of Pearson’s last living aunt, Lucille Randolph. Pearson wanted to honor her and other women of her generation to whom he was close, including his mother and older sister. Other women portrayed in the series include chef/community activist Hanan Shabazz, well-known Asheville visual artist Jenny Pickens, former First Lady Michelle Obama, educator and mixed-media artist Shirley Whitesides, Asheville City Manager Debra Campbell, City of Asheville Neighborhood & Community Engagement Manager Brenda Mills, art educator Casey Arbor, UNCA Professor of Art Emerita Virginia Derryberry, and many more.

Vice President

“It’s a way of giving back some of the nurture and encouragement I received,” says the artist. The show was on view at Delta House in March for National Women’s Month, and will be on display at Pink Dog for a summer showing in June and July. 

June 5-July 5. Opening reception: June 5, 5-7pm.

Pink Dog Creative, 342 Depot St., Asheville. www.pinkdog-creative.com. 828-216-1331.

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