John Mellencamp Community

John Mellencamp’s view of the world on exhibit at Museum of Art

"Since 1932, ACA Galleries has championed art with a social message, and John Mellencamp continues this tradition. His powerful paintings speak to the plight of humanity: a voice that is especially relevant in our time.” – Jeffrey Bergen, chairman ACA Galleries, New York

“You don’t have to live in New York or Los Angeles to live a full life,” said Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and humanitarian John Mellencamp, talking about his song “Small Town” to Rolling Stone magazine’s Andy Greene in the article “John Mellencamp: My Life in 15 Songs” (December 2013).

Very much like his songwriting, Mellencamp’s foray in the visual arts depicts moments of the human condition that have clearly made an impact on the artist’s life. They, in turn, impressed Museum of Art – DeLand’s CEO George Bolge so much that he arranged to participate in the show “The Paintings of John Mellencamp,” which currently is touring the country. Underwritten by United Parachute Technologies, the exhibit of more than 40 works of art opens Friday, Oct. 10, at the museum’s DeLand Downtown location at 100 N. Woodland Blvd., and will continue through Dec. 28.

“If ever there was evidence of soul-searching, it is here in these stark, direct, frontal studies of humanity,” said Bolge. “They literally beg the question of identity, ‘Who am I?’ And, ‘Where am I going?’”

The high-profile exhibition was chosen to coincide with an auspicious point in the museum’s development. Approximately two years ago, museum re-branding and expansion efforts were initiated, with many objectives set, one of which was to raise the profile of the museum to a national level.

Through continuous fundraising, the Museum of Art - DeLand has been able to deliver world-class exhibitions to the community; exhibitions that showcase not only Florida artists and collectors, but national and international art-integrated programming that has historical and educational significance. With the support of its board of directors, led by President Judy Thompson, Bolge and the museum staff have worked tirelessly to achieve this since he joined the museum in 2011.

In an effort to raise the profile of the museum, Bolge continues to work with museum professionals across the country to coordinate, secure and present exceptional exhibitions by renowned artists like Picasso, Miro, Warhol and Hanson — all for the benefit of Volusia County residents, students, tourists and businesses. In this way, the institution contributes to the nonprofit arts and culture industry, which generates more than $135 billion in economic activity each year, with museums directly contributing $21 billion (American Alliance of Museums).

So, take advantage of the fact that you don’t have to travel to New York, LA or Paris to be inspired by exceptional fine art that is both spirited and poignant. The cost for the Friday, Oct. 10, opening-night reception 5-7 p.m., is $25. There is no charge for museum members. Regular gallery admission through Dec. 28 costs $10. More details are available at MoArtDeLand.org.

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