Local gallery hopes to ‘promote God's definition of art’

The Art Gallery of New Geneva, in Appomattox, rests inside of an old church. On the outside, eye-catching murals draw more attention to an already charmingly distinctive building. Once inside the building, patrons are transported to a veritable wonderland of colorful brushstrokes, potpourri, and the smooth dulcet tones of the grand piano that decorates the center of the gallery. Sunlight shines through high stained glass windows casting radiant shadows onto the treasure trove of handmade artisanal crafts. The environment embodies peace, and it’s intentional.

The gallery was specifically curated to create this peaceful effect. Jane Raymond, the curator and founder of the gallery’s vision, is expressed in the mission statement of “Nourishing the soul through the gift of the arts.” Raymond believes that art is the most important way for humans to connect with God, and in doing so find peace.

“But the primary purpose for me, and it always has been a different purpose for art, and that is to bring, number one, to bring God all the glory.” Raymond said. “Number two, in light of that, to foster good messages, good and encouraging things, I believe all the arts, theater, music, writing, all the arts, are to bring good and healthy thoughts to this world.”

Raymond believes that God has his definition of art, and she hopes that the gallery fulfills this definition.

There’s more to this in the current issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Support local journalism by purchasing the issue at a local newsstand or subscribing at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to receive the print edition or view the full article in the e-edition version.