Something about the way a retail ad was placed on a printed page appealed to Dan Dyches’ artistic side.
“I always found printed advertising fascinating,” said Dyches who spent 50 years working for newspapers primarily in their advertising departments.
He never had any formal art training when growing up. While he enjoyed painting, it wasn’t until after he’d retired that he had the time to devote to it.
One of the artists he admires the most is Leonid Afremov who died in 2019. Afremov was a Russian-Israeli modern impressionist painter who used a palette knife and oils to create his works.
Dyches said he tried to emulate Afremov, but he doesn’t like to use oils.
“Acrylics are more forgiving,” he said.
Plus, he prefers to use a brush.
But what he does like aboug Afremov are the artist’s use of reflection and bold colors.
Some of Dyches’ paintings are streetscapes during the rain with people carrying brightly-colored umbrellas. The light from the lampposts reflects onto the rain-soaked pavement and sidewalks creating orange and white streaks.
Not all of Dyches’ works have Afremov influences. He also likes to paint Aspen trees.
“I lived in Colorado in the 70s,” he said.
The trees remind him of the time he lived there.
Dyches’ paintings will be part of an exhibition at the 600 Broad Building called
“Bold Radiance: Experiencing Existence Colorfully.” He will be exhibiting his works along with J. Travis Duncan.
The opening reception begins at 7 p.m. on Feb. 5.
Other art exhibitions around town include the Open Session Exhibit at the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta. The show features multiple artists including Lillie Morris who won first place in the 2D category; Kay Lovingood who placed first in the 3D category; and D.S. Owens, who won in photography. Kathleen Boyd’s work “Wide-Eyed Gardener” won best in show, and Barry Rosen’s “Bald Eagle” won the director’s choice award. Railey Warren was the young at art winner.
Charmain Z. Brackett is the Features Editor for The Augusta Press. Reach her at charmain@theaugustapress.com
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