For the overall work, he wanted to capture the flavor of the event.
"I was trying to come up with an image that would convey a summery image that would be bold and would bring together the ideas of music and outdoor eating and celebration."
Tapley knew what image to convey because he and his family live within walking distance of the festival and like the atmosphere.
"We've been to the festival a lot. Where we live, it's like living in the festival."
Painting required weeks in the studio
A labor-intensive process of sketches and miniature paintings to perfect the 22-inch by 20-inch painting's composition and color required Tapley to spend weeks in the studio on behalf of the festival. The painting will appear within a graphic framework donated by John and Dana Dixon of Danville's Dixon Design.
"The Great American Brass Band Festival is honored for Sheldon Tapley to have taken on this labor of love for our community," said GABBF Steering Committee Chairman John Albright. "Not only does his work capture the timeless essence of the festival, but it will allow people to take home more than just a memento, but a piece of real art."
Traditionally, the festival's posters have featured the work of local commercial photographers and graphic artists and have been best-sellers at the annual event. Festival organizers plan the 2005 poster as first in a series of fine art posters designed by the numerous artists living in and around Danville.
Tapley's painting and drawings are held in museum, academic, corporate and private collections across the United States, and his vivid and energetic still-life paintings traditionally sell in the five-figure range.
American Artist published one of his paintings on its cover in November 1999, writing that, "Tapley masterfully blends hard-earned classical technique with a vision that is thoroughly modern and personal."
A resident of Danville, Tapley currently serves as a the Paul L. Cantrell Professor of Art at Centre College, where he has taught since 1983. New York City's Tatistcheff Gallery, 529 West 20th Street, regularly exhibits his work. More information is available at www.sheldontapley.com.
Year after year, the Great American Brass Band Festival is recognized by the Southeast Tourism Society and the Kentucky Tourism Council as one of the top summer events in the Southeast. A great family vacation destination and must-see/must-hear event for music lovers, the GABBF is a weekend full of old-fashioned family entertainment, with the majority of events free of charge.
The GABBF is jointly hosted by Boyle County and the City of Danville and Centre College.
Information for this story came from Danville-Boyle County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
