Next Saturday, for Second Saturday Art Walk in St. Petersburg, definitely get off at trolley stop 7. That's the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, and it's opening night for Cora Marshall's solo exhibit, Roots & Branches & Blooms: An Exploration of Family Ancestry, History, and Memories. What's that, you say? Well, we're glad you asked, 'cause it's our job to tell you and get you to places undiscovered. Of course, the Woodson isn't exactly undiscovered, but it's probably not as busy as, say, Ichicoro Ane. Of course, Ichicoro Ane doesn't have Cora Marshall. Stick with us, it's been a long week and the logic's in there somewhere, we pinky-swear.
Marshall's exhibition, Roots & Branches & Blooms: An Exploration of Family Ancestry, History, and Memories, includes work from three of her series: In and Out of Time, Of Blood and Bones and Toiling Upward. In and Out of Time uses mixed media to examine family memories and the power they hold over not only the family in question, but the viewer, to transport them to somewhere else. Of Blood and Bones shows the viewer — with abstract, poured paint techniques — a way to look at ancestral resemblance. Toiling Upward — last but not least, honest — takes an artistic look at Marshall's family tree and her kin's vocations.
Marshall, who's the Professor of Art Emeritus at Central Connecticut State University, left a 50-year career making, showing and teaching art five years ago, choosing to retire in Gulfport (because of course). In the past five years, she's continued to exhibit her work across the world — and Pinellas. Here's your chance to see her locally.
There's always time for ramen later. Right now, plan on checking out this sure-to-inspire exhibit at the Woodson.
Roots & Branches & Blooms: An Exploration of Family Ancestry, History, and Memories | Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, 2240 9th Ave. S., St. Petersburg | Opening reception, July 14: 5-9 p.m. (trolley stop 7 on the Second Saturday ArtWalk) | Through Sept. 30. More info here
