Artists Alley: In Conversation
Thursday, September 14, 11 AM - 12 PM
Alexander Community Gallery
*Registration required (free and open to the public)
Join exhibiting artists Herb Cohen and Lynn Jenkins in conversation with long time neighbors, friends, and collectors of Artists Alley, Sue Glenn and Lee Rocamora. Moderated by Ian Gabriel Wilson, Curator of Exhibitions & Collections at BRAHM, this roundtable discussion will provide insight into the formation of the artist-centered community, the daily life of residents, and the lasting impact of the Artists Alley community on Blowing Rock.
This program is in support of the BRAHM’s current exhibition Artists Alley: Building a Creative Community in Blowing Rock.
Herb Cohen has connections to Blowing Rock reaching back to 1958, when he began spending time on the mountain with friend and fellow artist Philip Moose. Cohen would go on to build a home and studio on Artists Alley with his husband, fiber artist and painter, José Fumero, where they would live and work until 2011. Earning a BFA and MFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, Herb has served as an instructor at Alfred University, a designer for Hyalyn Porcelain Company, Hickory, NC, and as Exhibits Director and Acting Director at the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte. As an award-winning potter and sculptor, he has exhibited throughout the United States; served as juror for numerous exhibitions, fairs, and shows; and served appointments to regional committees and boards. Herb is also a Founder Emeritus of BRAHM.
Lynn Jenkins is a potter living and working in Valle Crucis, NC. Lynn moved with her family into the Artists Alley community of Blowing Rock in 1971. Her journey with the ceramic medium began there and would continue through classes at Watauga High School before completing Haywood Community College's Professional Crafts Program in Clay 1980. She would go on to build her home and studio on Artists Alley where she would live and work for the next 25 years. Her raku pottery has been exhibited widely, including with the Southern Highland Craft Guild where she served as President of the Board.
Sue Glenn is a founding member of BRAHM’s Board of Trustees and a longtime friend and supporter of the residents of Artists Alley. She brings a unique perspective on the impact of Artists Alley on the larger community of Blowing Rock.
Lee Rocamora is a member of BRAHM’s Board of Trustees and an avid collector and student of modern and contemporary craft. As a friend and collector of many members of Artists Alley, he holds a nuanced perspective on the broader context.