Alma Hoopes
Alma Mae Hoopes, an artist of American Spirit
July celebrates the American Spirit, that fire within us all to overcome the most drastic of obstacles and reach out to our fellow citizen and appreciate the gifts that being an American has to offer. It also draws attention to those overseas who continue to extend our hand in freedom and friendship. Nothing symbolizes that history and spirit like the American Flag. It is an image that has evolved over time and has grown to encompass so much more than our humble beginnings in democracy.
In honoring one of our most important national treasures, Old Glory, the Zanesville Appalachian Arts Gallery is celebrating with the theme of American Flags and Americana by featuring flag artist Alma Mae Hoopes as their featured Artist of the Month. There is a rare nobility in her watercolor renditions of the American flag. She captures so easily a life and spirit in each image she portrays, images that inspire viewers to be better citizens to represent the history of each star and thread.
"Even at a very young age I could make art, but I didn't realize it was art or I was artistic." Alma Mae says "I painted walls and pictures because I could not afford to buy special designs."
If the name Alma Mae Hoopes rings a bell, it is because she has been the President of the Crooksville Arts Council for 11 years. Her quiet charm and air of southern hospitality lends herself well to one of her biggest passions - the Crooksville Art Walk. The sole purpose of this event is to expose the community to the art and artist from Crooksville and neighboring communities. The show is juried and only fine art is accepted. The community proudly supports and truly appreciates this event, an event that is free and open to anyone who wants to enjoy an evening of art, music and friendly community spirit. Look for this event yearly in early June.
In her paintings from flowers to buildings, Alma Mae states, "I believe people see me as a flag painter most. The folds are the challenge." To paint, Alma Mae says that she has to be free of stress and paints for leisure. After her retirement in 1991 she knew she wanted to paint and took up the brush on a more full time basis. When asked how she knew a painting is finished she replied " it's when I step back and don't want to change the picture."
Alma Mae is the ZAAP Gallery's featured artist for the month of July. To see works by her and other Americana artists be sure to visit the gallery located on 625 Main Street in downtown Zanesville. Better yet, meet the artist in person during Zanesville's 1st Friday Gallery Hop. Alma Mae will be on hand to share her works of art, some of which will be available for purchase.
-Shelley Tolliver
