Ralston exhibit opens Saturday

Marcie Culpepper decorated David Ralston’s offices with the works of Blue Ridge and North Georgia artists for nearly 20 years.

Culpepper said Ralston, who rose to become Speaker of the state House of Representatives, was clear when he asked her to take charge of the interior decorating task. He told me, “I want never to forget my roots, and I want all Blue Ridge and North Georgia art in my office.”

Now the art that filled seven offices, a board room and reception area will return to the artists, making a stop along the way at the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association in Blue Ridge.

Culpepper said that following Ralston’s passing his offices in the capitol had to be quickly cleared. Professional movers brought the art to The Art Center in Blue Ridge.

To honor the artists and say a farewell to Ralston, the art will be on display at The Art Center through February 26.

The event will open Saturday, January 14, with a reception from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.

All the artists who contributed to Culpepper’s project for Ralston have been invited to attend this public reception.

Artwork by the following artists will be on display:

•Anthony Abreu;

•Elizabeth Bame;

•Jason Clemons;

•Mary Barber Cox;

•Jan K. Dappen;

•Camille Day;

•Doris Durbin;

•Richard Low Evans;

•Chris Hefferen;

•Robin Lewis-Wild;

•Sue Mitchell;

•Marsha Hamby Savage;

•Bill Suttles; and,

•Steve Penley.