Join us on July 22nd for an opening reception and concert in the Upstairs Art Space at Whitney & Ventola Music Studios.  We welcome back Becky Slonaker for a second exhibition (with brand new pieces!) and Christopher Whitney performs classical guitar music by a turn-of-the-century Mexican composer.

Becky Slonaker is a Columbus, Ohio native whose artwork has been shown in a number of local galleries and has garnered the attention of collectors in the Midwest. Using multiple mediums, her attraction to texture and color enables her to create extraordinary works of art that evoke an unanticipated and emotional response from the viewer.  Having studied at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, an initial interest in kitchen and bath design transformed to a passion for fine art after passing of her grandmother.  The extreme feeling of loss encouraged Becky to express her emotions through this constructive artistic process, and became the guiding light for the creative path that she is on today.

She will be joined by classical guitarist Christopher D. Whitney, who in addition to teaching guitar lessons in Clintonville, Ohio has been building a 21st century repertoire for the classical guitar. He will be performing the guitar preludes of Manuel Ponce (1882 – 1948), an important Mexican composer who worked closely with the great Andrés Segovia to build a body of work that is essential to classical guitarists.  Ponce’s 24 Guitar Preludes rely heavily on the popular and folk music of Mexico. While being quite nostalgic they seem to transcend any grandiose nationalistic trappings. They invite the listener to experience for themselves the profound beauty of a people and their culture.

Upstairs Art Space events are free and open to the public. Donations for refreshments/musicians are gratefully accepted.