University art exhibit to feature one of Jefferson County’s own

^{David Seal}

(March 20, 2015) – Carson-Newman University will host an exhibit by local artist David Seal. The exhibit runs from March 29 through April 29 in the University’s Appalachian Cultural Center. An opening reception will be held on Sunday, March 29, from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. The exhibit and reception are both free and open to the public.

Seal’s exhibit, “Sacred Ground,” reflects the life, environment and condition of the Appalachian region, as well as its people. Some 20 works will be featured, the largest single exhibit of Seal’s work in his home of Jefferson County.

“A true son of Appalachia, David Seal honors the beauty of Appalachia’s landscape, the strength of its people, and its sense of community,” said Dr. Jennifer Hall, director of the Appalachian Cultural Center. “His roles as artist, educator, and community leader all exemplify his commitment to the place we call home.”

Seal, who has been producing art since 1977, says his influences stem from such artists as Eric Carle, J.M.W. Turner and Pierre Augustine Renoir. The Chestnut Grove resident has developed his own approach to his work, one that impresses David Underwood, Carson-Newman’s professor of art and director of Art Department exhibitions.

“David Seal is a master of many trades and skills,” said Underwood. “He has developed his own unique “acrylic plastic appliqué” technique of applying, peeling and re-applying paint, to create a visually intriguing 3-D effect on a mostly 2-D painting surface.”

Seal also teaches in the Career and Technical Education Department of Jefferson County High School. Along with teaching he also serves on the County Legislative Body as a commissioner representing Jefferson County’s 9th District.

Carson-Newman’s Appalachian Cultural Center is located on Russell Avenue in Jefferson City. The Center is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m.