“BenJamin' Beckons Grains and Grooves” Solo Art Show at the EAG

“BenJamin' Beckons Grains and Grooves” is the unusual title of Ben Calvert’s
unusual art in the solo exhibition of his block prints in the
Elmhurst Artists’ Guild gallery from August 21 through September
30, 2016. The gallery is located at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S.
Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst, Illinois.

An opening reception, free and open to the public, is scheduled in the
gallery, on Friday, August 26, from 7 to 9 pm.

Benjamin F. Calvert III, as he is more formally known, has a daytime job as
customer service representative, but his joy lies in pulling prints
from his wood blocks. “I have a strong feeling for nature, and the
wood complements my images. Different types of wood provide varied
and often fascinating backgrounds, depending upon on the subject,”
he explained.

He believes in creating images that are at once familiar, yet open to
interpretation. “For some images I use linoleum blocks in order to
get more detailed lines in a small area. The majority of my creations
are printed on Japanese Kozuki paper, using oil-based inks,” he
said.

Calvert received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Knox College, Galesburg,
Illinois, which published his first print, “Invasions,” in Catch,
its literary magazine. He has entered juried art shows at Beverly Art
Center and Bridgeport Art Center. He lives in Villa Park.

The exhibition can be viewed during regular Museum hours, Tuesday,
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm and Friday
from 11am to 7pm. The first Friday of each month is the Museum’s
free admission day. At other times, admission for adults is $8 and
for seniors $7. EAM and Guild members, students and children under 18
are admitted free.

A portion of the proceeds of any artwork sold benefits the Guild and
the Elmhurst Art Museum.

The EAG gallery is not-for-profit, operated by the Elmhurst Artists’
Guild separate from the Museum. It features original contemporary
artworks in a variety of styles and media. In addition to four
member shows each year, the guild hosts exhibitions of individual
member’s artwork and invitational shows for significant local
artists. More information is available at elmhurstartistsguild.org,