Gallery to feature Wilmington Clay Artist Marty Allran May 5 – June 6; Meet & Greet May 9

Sunset River Marketplace art gallery in Calabash, N.C. is set to feature Sculptural Clay Art by Marty Allran from May 6 through June 6, gallery owner Ginny Lassiter has announced. There will be a Meet & Greet on Saturday, May 9 from 12 noon – 4 p.m.

Allran is known for her one-of-a-kind hand-built clay sculptures, displaying fluidity and freedom of form. Her fascination with sculpting clay began as a child playing in the red clay riverbanks near her N.C. home. This affinity became her impetus for studying art and earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interior Design and Art from Eastern Michigan University. After retiring from the interior design business, Allran adopted clay as her sole medium of expression.

Incorporating the natural textures of coastal and mountainous areas in North Carolina, her creations are inviting to the eye and to the touch. Her style, originality and creativity are exemplified by the variety of her work, which includes unique vessels and artistic accent pieces as well as an occasional sculpture with a hint of whimsy. The artist says, ?It is my hope that my art is received with the same pleasure that I experience in the creation of each and every piece.?

Allran shares residences in Wilmington and West Jefferson, N.C. with her husband and their Australian Shepherd.

About Sunset River Marketplace
Since opening in 2002, Sunset River Marketplace has been an active supporter of performing, literary and visual arts in the area. The 10,000 square-foot gallery features work by over 200 North and South Carolina artists. Its on-site pottery studio has two kilns and three wheels for use by students. Ongoing oil, pastel and watercolor classes are also provided, in addition to workshops by nationally known artists. The gallery’s complimentary Coffee With the Authorsprograms feature presentations by local and regional authors. A Paint & Party series provides a fun after-work experience for those with no previous art background. The gallery’s framing department offers full-service, on-site custom frame design for artwork, family heirlooms and other memorabilia.

Sunset River Marketplace is located at 10283 Beach Drive (Hwy. 179) in the historic fishing village of Calabash, N.C. just north of the S.C. state line. Winter hours (January through March) are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information about the exhibition, art classes, onsite framing or any other gallery events, call 910-575-5999 or visit the website: www.staging.careful-crib.flywheelsites.com. The gallery’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sunsetrivermarketplace) also lists special events, new artists and other happenings.

Shown:
Top: Seaside Splendor, clay by Marty Allran
Below: Gnome Highrise, clay by Marty Allran

Sunset River Gallery