Bourbon with HeART has announced its fourth art exhibit this year, "Seasoned Spirits," celebrating the elegance and wisdom of age. The exhibit will showcase 50 bourbon barrel heads, each intricately hand-painted by local Kentuckiana artists aged 50 and above. Starting on September 1, the exhibit will run for six weeks and will be on display at the CAMBRiA Hotel Downtown Louisville on the historic Whiskey Row.
“We are bringing to the table half a century to over a century of talent with each barrel head displayed in this exhibit. The message is loud and clear that both bourbon and artists get better with age,” said Morgan Hancock, executive director and founder of Bourbon with Heart.
With an unprecedented 10,000 people reaching the age of 65 daily, seniors are an ever-growing and influential population. A portion of the proceeds from this exhibit will be donated to National Parkinson’s Institute and USA CARES. Hancock, a veteran herself, explained that more than 50 percent of all veterans are over the age of 50.
"We are thrilled to not only support the Bourbon with Heart Project but also have our 2023 Parkinson's Warrior of the Year, Robert Schack contributing his amazing artistic skills. Bourbon with Heart is known as Kentucky's most creative way to give back, and we are proud to be a partner," said President and CEO National Parkinson's Institute Eric Richardson.
The main mission of Bourbon with HeART is to support and spotlight Kentucky artists. In the first six months of 2023 alone, the organization has raised more than $80,000 and launched Arts & Spirits, a magazine that shares the works and stories of artists.
For more information on Bourbon with HeART and the "Seasoned Spirits" exhibit, visit
www.bourbonwithheart.org.
MEET THE ARTISTS
Ada Asenjo, 62, Louisville, was born in the Dominican Republic and is now a language teacher. She uses her diverse experiences to inspire her art. Drawing from nature, she creates digital designs of pressed flowers and foliage, promoting fair trade and organic practices. Asenjo views art as a healing practice, a tool for exploring the subconscious, and an essential part of Kentucky's beauty. Her work contemplates Life's essence, purpose, and equitable living.
Stephanie Batts, 56, Lexington, is a mental health therapist, poet, and painter. She uniquely channels her professional insights into evocative artwork. Using mediums like acrylic, oil, and cold wax, she predominantly paints on wood panels, seeking to inspire self-connection and environmental awareness. Recently returning to her home state, she celebrates the theme of aging through her work, integrating both societal and personal viewpoints. Her mission is to unify art, wellness, and nature, encapsulating the essence of Kentucky.
Ken Burney, 63, Lexington, harnesses six decades of life experience to inspire his art. From music and conversation to the rich cultural diversity of Kentucky, he finds a wealth of inspiration around him. Now a full-time artist, he is enjoying the freedom to express his feelings and thoughts about the world through his creative works.
Larry Darst, 79, Leitchfield, is a retired PE teacher who finds joy in doodling, influenced by preachers' sermons and driven by his love for color. Despite never regarding his doodling as art, he appreciates the joy-inducing power of colorful art. With age, Darst has discovered unprecedented wisdom and inner peace, which he credits to his faith in Jesus Christ.
Lynn Davidson, 63, Wilmore, is a retired teacher who has used her newfound freedom to immerse herself in art, experimenting with new techniques and enhancing her skills. She particularly enjoys working with acrylics and paper clay, creating durable and striking pieces. Her work celebrates the beauty of nature and her ongoing artistic journey.
Winkie Hollenbach Dawkins, 59, Louisville, is a 5th-generation Kentuckian. Her passion for art is deeply rooted in her state's rich bourbon heritage. After raising her three children and carrying on as the proud widow of an Army Green Beret, she reignited her artistic journey. She believes in the power of art as a soulful expression integral to the human condition.
Matthew Dicken, 64, Louisville, has embarked on his artistic journey inspired by his siblings and teachers. After a 34-year tenure with IATSE Local 17, he has shifted his focus to painting with fervor from his studio, nestled within his son's Highlands gallery, "What Makes You Smile Gallery and Gifts." His work pays homage to Kentucky's vibrant art scene and its storied bourbon tradition.
Todd Fife, 58, Bowling Green, is an artist passionate about the power of art to make connections. Drawing inspiration from a promise he once made, Fife sees art as a form of deep communication. Emphasizing the vibrant arts scene in Kentucky, he is keen on debunking stereotypes through his art. He appreciates the confidence that age and experience have brought him in his artistic journey.
Collene Griffin, 80, Frankfort, is set to showcase her art for the first time publicly. Drawing inspiration from nature and photographs, her work merges realism and impressionism, offering viewers a glimpse into her perception of beauty. Art allows her to immerse herself, escaping any troubles while reflecting on Kentucky's diverse landscapes. Aging has granted her a precious perspective, fostering contentment in herself, her art, and her cherished relationships.
Bill Guffey, 59, Burkesville, has been a visual artist for 15 years and is the former mayor of Burkesville, KY. He uses oil paint to reflect the world around him. Google even recognized him for pioneering projects. Combining his love for art, bourbon, and Kentucky, he creates pieces reflecting the state's unique charm. As he ages, Bill cherishes watching his family grow.
Janet Hoard, 57, Crestwood, draws inspiration from nature, sound, and life experiences. She has found her artistic passion to be a fulfilling way of life. Now retired from her 9-to-5 job, she has embraced the opportunity to pursue art full-time. She loves projects for their ability to spark her imagination, energize her spirit, and invigorate her heart.
Patti Holmes, 66, Louisville, is a seasoned photographer with 20 years of experience. She adores the intersection of art and craft. She is a versatile artist who finds inspiration in daily life and is skilled in various mediums, such as sketching and painting. As she matures, she values the opportunities to benefit her community through her diverse artistic endeavors.
Brad Howard, 53, Louisville, is a seasoned graphic designer specializing in branding and visual storytelling. He now ventures into painting, inspired by the warmth of wood and bourbon's amber hues. With a 30-year career designing logos and environmental structures, his works echo his Kentucky heritage. As a father of five, Brad seeks to demonstrate his artistic prowess beyond digital realms, celebrating continuous learning and mentorship in his craft.
Luis de León, 52, Louisville, is a Guatemalan-born journalist and musician and expresses his artistic flair in five Louisville bands and through his vivid drawings. His work has graced exhibitions and illustrated books internationally since moving to the United States a decade ago. At 52, Luis skillfully intertwines his passions for music, art, and journalism, challenging stereotypes and celebrating Kentucky's rich human tapestry.
Claudia Mata, 54, Louisville, is a mother of three from Guerrero, Mexico. She is a gifted hand embroidery artist. Taught by her mother, her vibrant, multi-colored pieces enliven clothing, hats, shoes, and home decor. Her art, reflecting the rich artistry of her Mexican heritage, serves as a vibrant tapestry of her cultural roots and life in Kentucky. Her work celebrates family, personal growth, and shared heritage.
Tim O'Connell, 50, Louisville, is an artist deeply rooted in his identity. He finds inspiration in people, places, and old photographs, aiming to capture time in his work. He values the inherent nature of his artistry, likening it to a bird's need to sing. He appreciates his Kentucky heritage and recognizes the importance of an artist's origin. As he ages, he treasures the simple pleasures in life, like enjoying his front porch.
Marty Osbourn O'Daniel, 55, Louisville, is a former nurse turned artist. She discovered her painting talents in 2017. Embracing life at 55 with "smart ambition," she transitioned to a full-time art career after raising her three sons. Her artistry reflects a new season of life, one she devotes to passionately creating art and setting boundaries. Marty aims to inspire others through her work, reminding them it's always possible to discover new abilities.
David Reed, 61, Lawrenceburg, is a celebrated Kentucky artist transcending cultural barriers with his paintings. His works, often centered on local bourbon distilleries, highlight the transformative power of art. With age, Reed embraces the miracles of life—fatherhood and sensory exploration—deepening his creative process.
Robert Schack, 67, of Louisville, finds his "visual pathway toward celebrating life" through art. Despite living with Parkinson's, his identity remains rooted in his artistic pursuits. His creations, driven by a quest for knowledge and inspired by Kentucky's cultural richness, serve as his meditation and medication, connecting him with the infinite world.
David and Terri Sierra, 65 and 59, Louisville, are a dynamic artist duo. David, a New York-born Hispanic artist, specializes in oil portraiture, capturing diverse walks of life. Terri, a lifelong artist, creates vibrant murals, turning photographs into abstract expressions of color and shape. They own two art studios and the 'Creative Eyedias' gallery. Their work, rooted in their military family experiences, contributes to Kentucky's rich cultural tapestry. Their art uplifts spirits while fostering societal connections.
Billy Tackett, 53, Alexandria, is an internationally recognized artist and excels in blending horror, sci-fi, and fantasy elements. With 30 years of experience, he's renowned for his unique "splatter" technique, traditional illustrations, and pop culture-inspired works. His current projects document the rich history of the Batmobile and depict moonshine runners. Tackett continually explores new techniques and themes as he matures, bringing a fresh dynamism to his art.
Anna Marie Tracy, 71, Shelbyville, is a retired educator-turned-artist and a vibrant addition to Kentucky's art scene. Inspired by the region's diverse landscapes, she specializes in Plein Air painting, a passion kindled during her time with the Shelby Regional Arts Council. Continually evolving in her craft, Anna views art as a nexus of joy, intellectual challenge, and heartfelt inspiration.
Jennifer Vaughn, 52, Lawrenceburg, recently leaped into her career as a professional artist, having taught and practiced art her whole life. Known for painting local murals, she recently shifted her focus to renowned racehorses. Jennifer views art as a means of communication, an emotional outlet, and a celebration of Kentucky's beauty and diversity. Her work manifests her appreciation for nature and equine grace.
Hazel Wilhoyte, 101, Louisville, is excited to participate in this exhibit as it enables her to express her passion for piano and art. Turning 102 in October, her love for creativity remains undiminished. Art holds great significance for her due to her passion for music and creativity. Living with Alzheimer's, she finds art even more special as it helps her remember the art of music. Additionally, Hazel says she has a profound love for happy people.
Mary Yaeger, 74, Shelbyville, has been an oil painter for over two decades. She sits on the Shelby Regional Arts Council board, championing local art. Passionate about gardening and bourbon, she intertwines these loves into her artwork. For her, art is a deeply personal pursuit, a pathway to spiritual growth, and a means to enrich her community. Her creations symbolize a unique blend of passion, age, and Kentucky heritage.
Judith Kennedy Zinner, 52, Louisville, is an award-winning artist and entrepreneur, captivated by the beauty of architecture, reflections, and shadows. After a business consulting and music career, Zinner found her calling in oil painting. Her work, often featured in exhibitions and commissions, led to her opening "Whet Your Palette," an interactive art studio. As a lifelong learner, Zinner sees art as a universal language and believes in the power of creation for all ages and skill levels.
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