“Unveiling the Beauty: Blue Ridge Exhibition Debuts at Wilkes Art Gallery”

The 44th Annual Blue Ridge Overview is set to commence on Jan. 17, at 5:30 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony at 6:30 p.m.

The Blue Ridge Overview encompasses an annual photography contest and exhibition designed for photographers residing in or around the Blue Ridge area, particularly those without photography as their main source of income. Categories available this year include Everyday Life, Nature and Environments, Macro Still Life, and Conceptual/Alternative Processes. Each category will feature first, second, and third place winners. Noteworthy awards include the Ralph H. Marler, Jr. – Best in Show Award and the People’s Choice Award. The voting for the People’s Choice Award will begin on the opening reception night and will continue until Feb. 6, with results announced on the Gallery’s social platforms by Feb. 7 at 5 p.m.

This year’s juror is Maggie Flanigan, a North Carolina-based artist engaged with concepts of community, intimacy, and immediacy. Her background in professional craft schools, community studios, and university environments has crucially shaped her focus on fostering a playful and supportive educational atmosphere while nurturing an artistic community. Maggie graduated with a BFA in Studio Art from Appalachian State University and an MFA in Photography from Tyler School of Art, Temple University. She places great emphasis on being deeply involved in education, intertwining her engagement in the art community through both gallery and museum collaborations as well as teaching, which provides equilibrium in her personal art endeavors. Currently serving as an Instructor at Caldwell Community College, Maggie Flanigan excels in imparting knowledge of art and photography across various levels, as well as exploring alternative photographic techniques, printmaking, and mixed media fiber arts.

Maggie Flanigan will present a series titled “A Wake for Unseen Patterns and Sacred Codes” in the Kulynych Gallery. Additionally, a third installation named “Juxtaposition” will be hosted in the Hayes Hall Gallery, featuring curated works by local photographers exploring the shared themes and fusion of paired artworks.

For further details regarding the 44th Annual Blue Ridge Overview, please reach out to the Gallery by phone at 336-667-2841. Wilkes Art Gallery operates Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 913 C Street / Ward Nichols Way, North Wilkesboro, NC. Entrance is complimentary for exhibitions, openings, and community gatherings.