City life is chaotic. The world is a crazy mess fraught with viruses and tension. Maybe it’s time to take a soothing trip somewhere close to home. Three well-known local artists are opening their home studios to the public this weekend in Lakeland and Eads during the “Rural Route: Autumn Aesthetic” art show and sale.
Just 30 minutes from Downtown Memphis, Deborah Fagan Carpenter and Jimmy Crosthwait invite art lovers to wander their Lakeland home and studio.
“The whole house is filled with art — even the bathroom,” says Carpenter. “I will have small and large paintings for sale, and Jimmy will have sculpture pieces for sale, including a large selection of his zen wind chimes that make the sound of — in his words — ‘one hand clapping.’”
Crosthwait’s work is designed for movement while Carpenter’s work is quiet and soothing, a perfect complement to each other. Meander onto the patio in the garden and be treated to homemade refreshments.
Just a short trip down the road in Eads, potter Agnes Stark will also have her home studio open to the public. Each piece of pottery is unique, fired in a gas kiln. Along with decorative and useful stoneware and ceramic clay pieces for sale, guests are invited to walk Stark’s property where there is also a log cabin amid open spaces.
Whether you are seeking a unique piece of art, a quiet respite, or both, you are invited to travel an artful autumn rural route this weekend.
“Rural Route: Autumn Aesthetic,” Fagan-Carpenter Studio, 4881 Canada, and Agnes Stark Pottery, 12675 Donelson, Friday-Saturday, Sept. 10-11, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 12, noon-5 p.m., free