By Chelsea A. Hamlet
The Opening Reception for Artist 3’s exhibit took place on Thursday, August 4th from 6:30PM – 8:00PM. The exhibit was sponsored by the Mount Vernon Arts and Culture Council and the Mount Vernon Public Library.
Artist 3 consists of Erica Buchanan, woodwork artist; Ayana Wigfall, mixed media artist; and Elizabeth Maynard, photographer and mixed media artist. Not only are Artist 3 kindred spirits in art, but they’re also kin by blood. Buchanan and Maynard are sisters while Wigfall is their closest cousin; their collaboration was truly a family affair.
The reception was intimate and full of warmth. Artist 3 was surrounded by friends, family, co-workers and art enthusiasts, including former mayor Ernest Davis. Hors-d’oeuvres were served in a private room and live music was performed by Maureen Wilson, Asim Barnes, and Brice Buchanan (Erica’s son).
The art surrounding the attendees lit up the room and transformed the exhibit into a space of enchantment. Stand out pieces included:
“Nature’s Door” accompanied by “Foundation in Change #2” by Erica Buchanan.
Photograph Credit: Rando Photography
“I Thirst – Inspired by Mother Theresa” by Ayana Wigfall.
Photograph Credit: Rando Photography
And
“Seasons on Third” by Elizabeth Maynard.
Photograph Credit: Chelsea A. Hamlet
During the Opening Reception, Outreach Coordinator of the Mount Vernon Public Library, Catherine Webb, highlighted how excited the library was to feature Mount Vernon artists like Artist 3 as the library continues to transform and showcase local talent. “This takes our art gallery to a different level,” she said.
When Artist 3 stepped to the podium to speak, they were overwhelmed with gratitude. They thanked God, their mother, who was in attendance, their father, their photographers, their family, the Mount Vernon Arts and Culture Council, the Mount Vernon Public Library, and everyone who came to support their vision.
“[This] is an art love fest…,” said Wigfall.
“I thank my heavenly father and paternal father for giving me the gift of art,” said Maynard.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside family members,” said Buchanan.
Attendees were so impressed by Artist 3’s exhibit that they couldn’t contain their praise:
“This is one of the best art exhibits we’ve had and it’s the continuation of the last administration’s vision to have a strong art presence in Mount Vernon,” Administrator of the Mount Vernon School of Music, Judy Williams stated.
“[The exhibit is] very impressive and continues the legacy of being homegrown [from]the soil of Mount Vernon,” former mayor Ernest Davis said.
“The artwork is very ethereal! As soon as I entered the arena of work, the art reminded me of the Garden of Eden,” Artist 3 supporter, Drew Baum, stated.
“The exhibit showed the excellence of the artists, but what made it special was [that]the presentation of the work was just as great as the work of art,” Mount Vernon Arts and Culture Council President, Maureen Wilson said.
The library was grateful for the opportunity to house the work of Mount Vernon native artists and looks forward to collaborating with Artist 3 again in the future. Learn more about Artist 3 and their journey as artists by reading our full interview here.