Oil paintings by noted Mississippi artist Lee Gibson are not the only focus of an art show and sale from 4-7 p.m. Saturday at Ole Homestead, the Columbus home of Rufus and Karen Ward at 302 College St. “Art for EB” is also a way for Gibson to honor her late grandson, Gabe Valentine, who passed away June 6 at the age of 8. “Super Gabe,” as he was affectionately known by many in the Golden Triangle, suffered with epidermolysis bullosa, or EB. His family has long supported research into the rare disease that causes severe blistering of the skin, among other debilitating symptoms. Visitors to the show will have an opportunity to learn more about the condition that affects newborns. A percentage of sales Saturday will go to the EB Research Partnership.
“Gabe shared with his family before he passed away that he wants us to continue to work towards a cure,” said Gibson, who lives in Starkville. “We want to build awareness and raise the funds to make this happen.”
The artist, whose oil canvases are in prominent galleries across the South, will have more than 30 original paintings available at special event pricing. Anyone purchasing a painting Saturday will be entered in a drawing for a 24-by-30-inch commission by Gibson. In addition, a raffle offers the winner a choice from four or five paintings created especially for the drawing. Chances are $10. The winner will be drawn at 6:30 p.m.
“Great paintings by Lee, a worthy cause and a fun event,” said Rufus Ward, who hosted a previous “Art for EB” show earlier this year. “We are pleased to have this again at the Ole Homestead.”
Gibson has studied art in Paris, Vienna, Amsterdam, London, Rome and other major art centers, and at the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland. Her vibrant works hang in collections in the United States, Europe and South America. She is especially recognized for her work in oils using a knife and focuses on landscapes, portraits and still life.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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