Reflections of Nature: The Art of Robert Gregory Gross

As light as air, as translucent as water, as earthy as cows grazing in a meadow, Robert Gregory Gross’s work is meticulously accurate and mysteriously subtle in portraying the often unseen aspects of our world. Watercolors, oils, etchings, ink and pencil sketches: Robert celebrates nature in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. If you look closely you may find angelic images in the whispery interplay between light and shadow. “Reflections of Nature” will open 6-9 pm Saturday, April 8.

At the reception, Black Mountain’s very own Upbeats Ukulele Orchestra will perform at 6:30 to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. The band plays a wide range of melodies, which include the Beatles, Motown Hits, as well as favorites by The Eagles, Van Morrison, and many more. The Upbeats consist of local residents from Black Mountain, Montreat, and Swannanoa, North Carolina.

Robert Gregory Gross was born an artist. From early childhood, his extraordinary gift, vision, and passion for art informed his life. He studied art history and methodology from antiquity to the modern day: the Old Masters – Rembrandt and Rubens, Michelangelo and Da Vinci, analyzing their practices and techniques; dug deep into the traditions of American and English art – from James Whistler and Thomas Eakins to John Constable and William Turner; the Japanese arts of woodblock, printmaking, and calligraphy; and nature – from human anatomy to the profound observation of fauna and flora, climate and weather.

With a heart full of love and generosity of spirit, he shared his skills and knowledge with students for more than forty years of making art in the studio and in plein air sessions. Moreover,  he inspired and nurtured them, providing a platform to showcase their work in public exhibitions year after year, and earning acclaim and recognition for his dedication and purpose.

His credo: “When I paint, I feel the breath of God.”