By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle.
The Ann Rudd Art Center in Ozark is currently showcasing the bold and expressive work of local artist Victoria Hamm, with her solo exhibition on display at the Dowling Museum/Ann Rudd Art Center Gallery through Saturday, January 17.
The exhibition, titled “Another Opening…Another Show!”, opened in early December and has drawn positive attention for its vibrant Pop Art style, striking use of color, and emotionally expressive subjects. The gallery is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering visitors an up-close look at Hamm’s work during the final days of the show.
Hamm, who grew up in Central New York and now lives in Ozark with her family, brings a strong artistic background to the exhibit. She earned a scholarship to attend the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute and later completed a two-year Fine Arts degree at Monroe Community College. Her work is heavily influenced by Pop Art icon Andy Warhol, particularly his fearless and unconventional use of color.
The exhibition features bold celebrity portraits as well as expressive depictions of women, a subject Hamm says holds special meaning for her. She has explained that she is drawn to faces because she believes “the mind and heart are reflected in the face,” and she enjoys painting women as a way to honor their individuality and diversity through distinct expressions and vivid visual style.
The Dale County Council of the Arts and Humanities expressed gratitude for Hamm’s hands-on role in making the exhibition a success. Hamm personally installed the entire show and decorated the gallery windows with banners and artistic props, enhancing the overall presentation and creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
One of the featured works in the exhibition is a large oil painting titled “Genghis Khan.” Designed to be displayed in a corner, the piece is well-suited for collectors with limited wall space and is available for purchase at $500.
Hamm hopes visitors leave the exhibition feeling uplifted. “Art should make you happy! The bold colors should project an uplifting feeling,” she said. “I hope you enjoy.”
Community members are encouraged to visit the Ann Rudd Art Center before the exhibition closes to support local art and experience Hamm’s colorful and expressive work firsthand.
