The South Arkansas Arts Center (SAAC) will showcase the work of local artists Mike Means and Pat Johnson in “The Pat and Mike Show #2,” on view in SAAC’s Price Gallery September 28 through October 29. The public is invited to meet the artists at an opening reception on Thursday, October 8, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at SAAC.
“The Pat and Mike Show #2” marks the second time Means and Johnson have collaborated on an exhibition at SAAC, bringing together two longtime El Dorado educators and artists whose work reflects their individual approaches to art
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“This is the second time Pat and I have collaborated at SAAC, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to share our work together again,” Means said.
Means is an Artist in Education (AIE) and educator at the SAAC Arts Academy. Through the AIE program, he works with elementary school students, sharing his artistic expertise and introducing young artists to new perspectives and creative possibilities. His own artistic practice encompasses a variety of media, including pastels, acrylics, three-dimensional physical modeling and digital art. “The Pat and Mike Show #2” features a selection of Means’ recent pastel creations.
Johnson, a longtime art teacher at El Dorado High School, was born and raised in El Dorado and has taught for 38 years. His artistic work includes both painting and sculpture, with a particular interest in realism. Outside the studio and classroom, Johnson enjoys hunting, fishing and gathering with friends.
“I’m proud to be showing my work at SAAC again,” Johnson said.
Johnson earned his undergraduate degree from Henderson State University and received his Master of Fine Arts degree from Vermont College of Fine Art in 2009.
SAAC invites the community to experience the artists’ latest work and celebrate this local creative collaboration. The Price Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, and admission to the galleries is free. For more information, contact the South Arkansas Arts Center at 870-862-5474 or visit saac-arts.org.