Between the spurts of rain this Spring I finally took the opportunity to visit the White Barn in St. Helena to see a show of shrines by local artists. The White Barn is a magical combo of art, soul, and generosity that has played a big role in the Napa Valley art scene since 1985. Nancy Garden and her family have sustained this nonprofit gem through the toughest of times for arts organizations. Their tight connections with the community make it a harmonious gathering place for both artists and audience.
The "Shrine Show" grew out of a lucky score by the Barn's David Garden. He found a discarded pile of wooden display boxes on the side of the road and put them to better use. He invited artists he knew through the Barn and Nimbus Arts (where David teaches creative classes like "Crazy for Construction")to turn the boxes into artful shrines.
The artists were told to focus on something important to them--a loved one, a favorite animal or food, a personal moment or hero. It is now an annual tradition that kicks of with a big party for the artists and their friends. In some cases the shrines were part of the feasting, i.e. the chocolate shrine that scented the room, and the pretzel shrine that demands "Thou Shalt Eat Pretzels".
Some of the shrines were playful, and some felt very personal. The dramatic light and the cozy setting inside the barn made it the perfect scene for contemplation. It was also a great chance to get to know some new artists, who spent the afternoon sharing ideas and dreams for the future. The White Barn has some fun performances and a film festival coming up this year, so check their calendar online: http://www.thewhitebarn.org/
More pics of the Shrine Show can be found in my photo albums to the right >>>>