Artist Spotlight | Abby Ruby

Abby Wolfzorn Ruby shares her process of creation, and it reminds me so much of what Julia Cameron says about feeding our inner child. Abby’s work is both playful and intuitive- she uses simple motifs and a limited color palette to create introspective work from her soul. Her process is about the explorative–something that really speaks to me about her work. There is a purpose to it that each piece carries. I truly believe that when an artist creates in a place of honesty with themselves, the art has a greater impact on the world. I hope you find Abby’s story an inspiration to feed your inner child and artist.

Stories, ArtCynthia SipesJanuary 28, 2021art, artist, abby ruby, creativity

What is theLOCAL?: Hub City Love

The door opens with a wide swing as I'm greeted with the usual "Hi, friend, come in!" Tiny footsteps come faster and faster around the corner until I'm hit by my favorite little person hugs. Coffee is probably already in the works for me, and a spot on the couch cleared. "So, how are you?" she asks.This is the usual welcome I receive at the Havner household. There are some people in life who were made to share in our stories—people who don't simply listen to your words but involve themselves, too.

What is theLOCAL?: Garner Blue Shop

Something unique is happening in Jackson: a space dedicated to handmade pieces by a collective of artists, many of whom are local to the area, where people can feel a connection to the items they purchase. While micro-retailing has seen a boon in large metropolitan areas across the country, Jackson now has its own venture in theLOCAL, a collection of small shops curated by local entrepreneurs in downtown Jackson.

A Conversation With: James E. Cherry

For years I’ve been hearing the name James Cherry. I first heard of him when I was a student at Union University (also his alma mater) and then continued to hear about this guy as a Jacksonian interested in writing. It’s clear that locals are proud to have this Jackson native around. He’s the president of the Griot Collective of West Tennessee, a monthly poetry workshop, and is, upon meeting him, very obviously cool. He has an easy going temperament and a steady, unquestionable passion for the written word.

Art Is 3/5 of Smart

A few months ago, I sat across a table from a four-year-old named Thomas. He and I were waiting on his dad who was in the gym coaching my son and the rest of a high school church league basketball team. I had some paper and markers, so we began to draw. Thomas drew his brother, where he lived, a mystery map, the gate to his house, the family car, his mom, his dad, a basketball, a fish in the water, and much, much more. Did I know this because he was a gifted illustrator?