BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – An ongoing series highlighting the work of local artists is set to continue this weekend as Billy Foster’s Appalachia Pop Up Art Show returns to Raleigh County.
The series, organized by Jose Rizo, acts as a showcase for the work of the late Billy Foster, as well as over a dozen local artists whose work depicts places, people, and the environments of the artists.
Foster, who passed away in 2016, created much of the work displayed during his time at Moundsville State Prison, where he spent nearly three decades. The works in question consist of nearly 50 paintings, drawings, and prints from the personal collection of Benny Dunfee.
The Appalachian art show will accompany the showcase of Foster’s work and will feature creations from 17 local artists.
Six sponsors have lended their support for the cause, allowing one night of local art to be spread out over the course of six separate events to take place over three weekends during the month of April.
The first of these events were held on Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6, and benefitted the Humane Society of Raleigh County and WV Collective, respectively.
Friday’s show – sponsored by Mind Power Systems – will benefit the WV Dance Company and will feature music from Billy Payne, while Saturday’s show – sponsored by Fairchild Motor Co. – will benefit Bowers Hospice House and will also feature music by Billy Payne.
Local artist, renaissance man, and Raleigh County District 1 Magistrate candidate, Gary Vaughan is one of the show’s many participants. Vaughan extended praise for effort behind the community event, telling LOOTPRESS, “Joe Rizo is an amazing asset to this community in so many ways. He has brought a ‘Big City Art Show’ feel right here to Beckley with every event he has organized. People really have no idea how amazing these shows are until they walk in to be stunned.
As a working artist, I am grateful for what he does, and humbled to even be a part of it. Appalachian culture is rich with talent, and Jose has managed to bring it all into one building…again.”
The next shows will be held from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday and Saturday at 328 Neville Street, Beckley, WV. Additional information can be found at the Billy Foster’s Appalachia Pop Up Art Show Facebook Page.