By Jessica Armistead
Student Writer

In the eyes of artist Kipley A. Meyer, the key to art is “interpretation."

Through October 10th the local artist will display his current artwork at the Bertelsmann’s Gallery located at Athens Academy. His approach to new carving textures is developed by creating African American Art carved to look like it could have been found on an archeological dig. He uses a primitive carving technique which allows his creation to look as if it could have been alive at sometime.    

Meyer creates his inspiration in life through many forms of furniture, sculptures and architecture.

“My art starts on one foot and ends up in other direction,” Meyer said, describing his work. “I like combination elements and using light colors against dark colors.” Although Meyer started  creating with furniture he now likes to create art by manipulating wood into many forms such as lamps, clocks and candleholders.

Meyer’s career and passion started when he built a coffee table. He continuously made his thoughts into creations and when his home could not hold any more of the furniture he took it to a gallery where he sold every piece.  From then on he began to build more furniture and replace what was sold.

“Move forward and never look back,” Meyer stated, when expressing his starting point. “I build things one way the first time and the second time it could be different.”

Much of Meyer's work utilizes walnut, mahogany, ash and maple and is accompanied by different looks and textures. “I will often combine smooth, clean lines with heavily textured surfaces to create a work I like to call organic-contemporary,” stated Meyer.  “If I use walnut then I want to combine something much lighter to contrast.” Within his work Meyer tries to the delight the senses visually and tactually.

Meyer's artwork can be found in the local shops of Madison. Town 220 sports a couple of the items. A mirror and hostess stand are featured in the restaurant's lobby. His art can also be seen at Inside Design, a local interior design store. The shop is co-owned by Frannie Kimsey and Jennifer Hendrix, both of whom  own personal pieces. Meyer has been in business with Kimsey for almost seven years and she appreciates his work. He has done nearly 60 pieces for her and has designed many things for her clients. "I can go to him for a client with a design and say this product needs to cover a big space but needs a mixture of light, dark and a little funky. He knows exactly what to make.” Kimesy stated,”He is a craftsman and perfectionist…there is always something new.”

Many galleries welcome Meyer.  His work is exhibited in the Grove Wood Gallery in Asheville, North Carolina and The Signature Gallery in Atlanta.  His art will be on exhibit at the Baltimore American Craft Council in February 2009.

Meyer's current show runs through October 10th, with hours from 8:10 a.m.-6:00 p.m. at the Bertlemann's Gallery located at Athens Academy. For more information on the show, contact the school at (706) 549-9225.