Visiting artist Ryder Richards kicks off new local arts initiative
Independent artist Ryder Richards has joined the Chattanooga arts community for the month of October to create a new series of works in preparation for an exhibition scheduled to open early November, titled “Lookout.”
Ryder’s visit is hosted by the new arts organization ARC: Artist Residency Chattanooga, which connects artists abroad with Chattanooga to develop their professional practice while educating and diversifying the arts culture.
The not-for-profit will operate quarterly to host and incubate an artist while engaging the community with studio visits, workshops, and lectures, presenting Chattanoogans the opportunity to learn directly from artists such as Ryder, who holds several years’ experience: how he works and lives as a practicing artist; the start of his professional career as an artist; as well as critique for local artists looking for critical feedback and professional support.
The Texas-based artist received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting and drawing from Texas Tech University, with a Master of Fine Arts in painting from Texas Christian University. His work has been exhibited internationally, including Olm Space, Switzerland; Antena, Chicago; the Texas and Dallas Biennials; and the Dallas Museum of Art. He is a co-founder of the RJP Nomadic Gallery, Culture Laboratory, and Dallasbased group The Art Foundation.
ARC already has a few events planned during Ryder’s month-long residency:
DIY Trying: Gas Mask Workshop
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Hosted by the Association for Visual Arts (AVA), Ryder will guide a group of participants in creating their own functional gasmask from household materials. Space and materials are limited, so be sure to RSVP on their website. There is a suggested donation of $10 for supplies and future ARC programs.
Open Studio Day
Monday, Oct. 31, 3 to 6 p.m.
An open studio day at the Swine Gallery that allows for a deeper understanding of how the artist works and maintains their studio practice. Join with Ryder to talk about his work and career as an artist. This event will be free and open to the public, including a visit from the Apothecary class from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Fine Arts Center.
Opening Reception
Friday, Nov. 4, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Join them for First Friday at the Swine Gallery for the opening of “Lookout,” an exhibition of new work from artist-in-residence Ryder Richards. The artist will be in attendance to talk about his work, and will be giving a lecture at 6:30pm. Enjoy food, hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and an opportunity to talk with the artist. Tickets will be for sale closer to the event, or are included with the purchase of a Patron Preview Party ticket.
This marks the first iteration of the program. ARC is currently looking for partners and sponsors to ensure there are resources for the next resident artist. If you’d like to be involved, host an event, or support the program directly, please contact ARC at info@arcresidency. org or visit them at arcresidency.wordpress.com