Unique Art Exhibit “Past is Prologue” by Arden Cone Opens in Greenville This December

Art Lovers in Greenville, Get Ready for a Unique Exhibit!

Hey there, Greenville! If you’re looking for something exciting to do this December, you’ll want to mark your calendars for a captivating exhibition coming to the Greenville Center for Creative Arts. From December 6 to January 29, 2025, local artist Arden Cone will showcase her thought-provoking collection titled “Past is Prologue.” It’s a blend of beautifully crafted sculptures and insightful paintings that dive deep into the themes of trauma and historical memory.

What to Expect from “Past is Prologue”

Get ready to be amazed by Cone’s impressive “Creosote Tears” sculpture series, which features her ingenious use of worn-out objects, including tractor tires salvaged right from her family’s farm. Arden doesn’t just throw these tires together; she carefully manipulates them to make statements about the trauma of time. According to Cone, “What I would do is take into account the materiality from which I was working, and having that become part of the piece itself.”

Some of the sculptures are quite abstract, yet they still represent real objects that carry stories of their own. You’ll get to witness how Cone translates her personal history into universal themes that resonate with many.

Paintings that Tell a Story

But that’s not all! The collection also includes Cone’s “Congressional Immunity” paintings, which take a hard look at the trauma present in American history. The inspiration behind these paintings comes from a particular photograph taken during the aftermath of January 6th, showcasing a chilling view from within The Capitol as rioters made their entrance.

​Cone has a keen eye for history and explains, “I started looking into those doors and they had a lot of history. They depict the life of Christopher Columbus.” By blending her paintings with her sculptures, she encourages viewers to think critically about our history and its impact on the present.

Join the Celebration!

To kick off the exhibition, there will be an exciting opening reception on December 6 from 6 to 9 p.m.. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet Arden Cone and explore her works. And if you want to dive even deeper, mark your calendars for an ArtTalk with Cone on January 14, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. where she will share her insights and the stories behind her work.

Why This Matters

“Past is Prologue” isn’t just an art show; it’s a statement on how we relate to our past and how it influences our present. Cone hopes her collection will prompt us to look at history with a more nuanced perspective, reminding us that the record of time and the historical record shape how we remember and understand the world around us.

So, if you’re in or around Greenville, don’t miss out on this unique art experience. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or someone just looking for a new adventure, Cone’s pieces will surely leave you with lots to ponder. For more information about the exhibit and events, check out artcentergreenville.org.

The Artist Behind the Work

As an accomplished artist, Arden Cone has completed prestigious residencies, including the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center’s 2024 Active Archive Residency, along with stints at the Vermont Studio Center, Pike School of Art, and the Chautauqua Institute School of Fine Arts. Her dedication and passion are sure to shine through in her upcoming exhibition.

So, grab your friends and family, and make it a date to explore “Past is Prologue.” You’re in for a treat!