Festive snacks awaited art lovers at the artCentral’s Hyde House on Nov. 30.
Members of the community gathered to enjoy the artwork titled “A PIGMENT OF MY IMAGINATION” and “Fabric Collage,” by artists Donna Roberts and her daughter Kelly Moreland.

“It’s exciting,” Moreland said. “I can’t lie, I’m nervous … This is my first debut, and I’m glad to have the opportunity to show.”

Moreland had approximately 30 fabric collages on display and her mother displayed approximately 25 watercolor, acrylic, ink and mixed media pieces. Even though the art display was up for all the public to see and enjoy, Moreland said she wasn’t going to push for her art to sell.

“This is something I do,” she said. “I have to have something, but I tag along with my mom on these. She’s my best friend, and I enjoy doing it with her.”

Sally Armstrong, the director of artCentral, was putting the final touches on the snacks table as she visited with the two artists before the art lovers arrived. Armstrong’s art intern from Missouri Southern State University, Megan Hudson, arrived early to enjoy some art and before helping with the event. Looking over Robert’s display, Hudson said she liked what she saw.

“I’m really glad she put a lot of mediums together, it’s rare,” Hudson said. “I like the washes she does in the backgrounds, and I like that she puts her everyday life in her art-like her children.”

Roberts told Armstrong of her work, and inspiration.

“Often I will set up a challenge using different paper, canvas, board, medium, technique or subject,” Roberts said. “This leads me into experimental work with acrylics and inks.”
Moreland expressed her inspirations and background as well.

““As a child, one of my grandmothers taught me to crochet while the other introduced me to quilting and I have enjoyed the needle arts ever since,” Moreland said.

This was the last exhibit of the year for artCentral; however, the displays will remain open through Dec. 16, and will be included in the Holiday Homes Tour on Dec. 8 during regular hours.