Art With A Purpose

Described by the late Dr. Joe Perrin, the Georgia State University College of Art Dean as "a Southern revivalist," Olivia Thomason completed new paintings just in time for the holidays. They range in subject from memories of childhood to urban living, a budding romance and beach vacations. One, however, strikes a note of American optimism, a symbolic message of hope and promise to the world. "Welcome to America," which she says took six months to complete, serves a noble purpose.

"The Statue of Liberty," Ms. Thomason said, "thrills me whenever or however I see this national symbol. I can't help but imagine how newcomers felt when they first saw it. The range of emotions centers around hope for a better life, and I wanted to say just this with colors and images. It's who we really are."

The other paintings are extensions of the artist's love of community with sparkling humor, some folklore and the transition from rural life to the challenges of living in a big city like Atlanta or Nashville.

The recipient of numerous awards including Atlanta's artist of the year by Creative Loafing and a longtime gallery owner, Olivia Thomason's paintings are in prestigious collections in major law firms, corporations and homes throughout the country. Eschewing single themes, her works encompass aspects of life in the South including college football's tailgating phenomenon to honoring veterans of all wars including her father who was a World War II veteran who served in the Marine Corps.

Olivia Thomason is friendly and accessible and may be contacted by email: bigoart1@yahoo.com. Her paintings would make a fine Christmas gift.