Chasing Color and Light in Columbus

Chasing Color and Light in Columbus—an art exhibition and fund-raising auction for new sound equipment at North Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The seventeen paintings displayed are a generous gift from Weiming Zhao, famed en plein air (open air) painter based in Manitoba, Canada.

Weiming grew up in remote northwestern China at the height of the Cultural Revolution. Drawing and painting were escapes from his world of political upheaval. Teaching himself and others how to read and speak English, he made his way to a new home in Manitoba via Brandon University. In 2003, after three decades away from art, he returned to his love of painting, and has since shown and sold his artwork around the world.

While visiting his brother and sister who live and work here in Columbus, Weiming spent his days painting seventeen of the renowned architectural wonders that dot the city landscape. These iconic architectural gems may have long become accepted as commonplace to Columbus’ long-term residents, but with the deft brushstrokes and vibrant colors in Weiming’s works, these famous edifices feel brand new once again. Filled with light, beauty, and enchantment, these paintings beckon Columbus residents to celebrate their city’s architectural jewels with the same wonder as first-time visitors.

Wishing to show his appreciation for the city that his brother and sister have cherished as a home away home, Weiming donated his entire Columbus collection and all proceeds from its sale to North Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). New state of the art audio equipment will strengthen the church’s bonds with the city as it hosts civic and social events magnifying the diversity and creativity of the human spirit. North Christian Church was designed by famed architect Eero Saarinen, and envisioned by its founders to be not only a house of worship, but also a center for community gatherings, and it is in that spirit that Chasing Color and Light in Columbus is exhibited.

Chasing Color and Light in Columbus opens on Wednesday, September 18th at North Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). This event begins at 5:30 PM with guest speakers, a reception, beverages, and time not only to peruse the paintings, but also to place opening bids. The exhibition and bidding ends on November 17th with a closing celebratory event and final sale.

RSVP on Eventbrite or Facebook.