Pete the Cat ~ Paintings by James Dean

Friday, 04 January 2008 21:52

Myrtle Beach, SC - Following a tenth-anniversary year that included artistic genres from around the world, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum  launches 2008 with two exhibits showcasing the talents of artists in our own corner of the world.

Opening Jan. 10 is the delightfully whimsical Pete the Cat: Acrylic Paintings by James Dean. Electrical engineer-turned-artist James Dean initially pursued painting as a sideline from his job at Georgia Power Company. Among his creations were the occasional humorous rendering of his cat, Pete – which soon became his best-selling works and a full-time occupation for the artist. In this sampling of 30 acrylic paintings on canvas.

Pete can be found in classic “pet poses,” along with new takes on the old masters’ works, or “on location” all over the world. The exhibit runs through Feb. 17.

If black cats scare you, assuring you of bad luck ahead, you will love Pete the Cat. Portrayed in a midnight blue, Pete the Cat will charm you, entertain you, and make you wish you had a cat just like him. He only stayed around long enough to help artist James Dean make the courageous leap from successful engineer to starving artist, but after Pete, James was no longer starving. Delightfully portrayed in many cat and un-cat activities, Pete will keep you smiling all the way to the end.

The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at 3100 South Ocean Boulevard across from the Springmaid Pier. Visit : www.myrtlebeachartmuseum.org/