HARLINGEN — Don Rinearson can typically be seen in the D’Arte Centre Gallery climbing a ladder to precisely hang artworks from members of the Harlingen Art Forum.
But that’s not all he does. Don is on the competition and exhibition committee. And he has his own art to show off as well.
That’s exactly what he has in mind for the organization’s open show with the theme “Green,” which starts tomorrow, May 31, with a reception as part of Art Night in Downtown Harlingen.
The former architect who now resides in Rancho Viejo makes sure he enters the competitions, even if he doesn’t have much of an art background. His works for this event include a green picture with a recycled palette making up the frame.
He also does some photography, pour paintings on wood and metal as well as other mediums.
His wife Kathy, is a talented artist and teacher, which is why Don makes sure he is involved in the art.
“ You either get on the ship or sit at the dock,” he said with a smile, his wife Kathy sitting nearby.
However, Don prefers to be the “background guy” in this 53-member organization. That’s why he first started as the treasurer of the Harlingen Art Forum before becoming more involved.
He now is the gallery chairman, so he is in charge of making sure the gallery looks good. He does that with his wife’s help.
“She has the eyes for color and objects,” he said. “I can position them so they are not on a straight line, but yet they kind of flow. So, the two of us work really well together.”
Hanging and changing out the art is time consuming and exhausting.
Recently, Don said he cleared the gallery and re-hung everything. It took three days and he said 600 steps up and down the ladder.
“A lot of work goes into this,” he said looking around the entire gallery.
It’s also enjoyable.
“ It is very rewarding to become one-on-one with all these folks,” he said. “It is just fun. It is fun.”
There’s also serious business when it comes to the competition. A $100 first place award is on the line as juror Jennifer Rodriguez from TSTC will decide the top three.
People who attend the reception and see the art, will be able to select their favorite for the people’s choice award.
Don expects about 10 to 15 entries in this open competition, but more opportunities for local artists are always coming up.
Student summer art classes at the Harlingen Art Forum
July 15 to 19 and July 22 to 26 Ages 7 to 11, 10 a.m. to noon Ages 12 and older, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Each session is $60 per student The first week is devoted to drawing and composition.
The second week, students will produce a variety of paintings using techniques such as acrylic pour and marbling. All materials are provided.
Call Kathy Rinearson at (260) 578-2120
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Harlingen Art Forum open competition reception
WHERE: D’Arte Centre Gallery, 115 E. Jackson Street
WHEN: Tomorrow, Friday, May 31, from 7 to 10 p.m.
WHY: See great artworks with a “Green” theme. Awards will be presented.
