CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW)- The Customs House Museum Crouch Gallery is home to the serene, organic sculptures of local artist and teacher Mike Andrews.
Photos courtesy of CHM
On view through May 5, the show, titled A New Vision, includes over forty pieces made of wood, limestone, or alabaster. Large figurative pieces like Theologian hold court across the gallery floor, while smaller sculptures, like James and Kay and Windblown float along the walls with dancing shadows.
The influence of the artist’s mentor, the late Olen Bryant, can be seen in many of the figurative works displayed. Upon the title wall sits The Master, paying homage to the well-known sculptor.
“This show is dedicated to my dear friend and mentor Olen Bryant. I was a student of Olen’s from 1980 to 1985 and worked as a studio assistant for him from 1982 to 1992,” Andrews said. “Olen became more than a teacher for me. He was part of my family. My son Michael worked for him the last 10 plus years of his life and he treated my daughter Sarah and youngest son Josh like they were part of his family. Elaine, my wife, and I miss him greatly and feel blessed to have known such a kind and gentle soul. He truly is a Tennessee treasure.”
Along with the sculptures, the exhibit includes a film and works by some of Andrew’s students. In 2014 Mike received the Artist of the Year Ovation Award from the Center for the Creative arts at APSU. His work has been displayed throughout the region and is represented in private collections from California to Washington DC and abroad. His sculptures can be found in collections throughout Tennessee including Vanderbilt University, the White House Public Library, the Nashville International Airport, Austin Peay State University, and The Ronald McDonald House.
The Customs House Museum is located at the corner of Second and Commerce Streets, the Customs House Museum is the second largest general museum in Tennessee. For more information contact Terri Jordan, Exhibits Curator, at 931-648-5780 or terri@customshousemuseum.org.