Practice Makes Perfect: The First 1,000 Times Don't Count!

WHAT: A Photograph and Mixed Media Exhibit featuring Sunnyside’s Mary Rouse

WHERE: Appalachian Physical Therapy Gallery, 2035 E. Market St. 45 Skyline Village, Harrisonburg

WHEN: Opening reception on Tuesday, February 11, 6-7:30pm. On display February 11 – March 3

Oil painting, mixed media collage, photography and jewelry are art forms that Mary explores. Through the use of an eclectic mix of materials, she explores both representational and abstract ideas. Students' creativity, flowers from her garden and the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley have provided inspiration.

Here’s what Mary says about her show:

“For this show I have used variations of "Practice Makes Perfect: The first 1,000 times don't count". It does not matter what you are learning - or why - if it is worth doing it is worth practice until it is perfect.

These are themes my students hear from me regularly. That is, after they have said, "But I played it perfect at home." My photographs show practice in process in areas other than music, as well as progress by the photographer attempting to capture a moment in time. The mixed media pieces express both the theme and the concept of practicing until I am satisfied. I hope the viewer will be challenged to think and maybe even be moved to do something.”

A Shenandoah Valley Native, Mary Jane Lawhorne Rouse was born in Lexington, VA, grew up in the town of Shenandoah, and has lived in Harrisonburg all her adult life.

As an active educator and advocate for the arts, she has served the Arts Council of the Valley and its predecessors for more than 50 years. Her education includes degrees from Radford and James Madison, plus much post graduate work and numerous teaching assignments. Her community service includes 17 years on the Salvation Army Board, seven years on the Artisans of VA Association (AVA) Board, and life-long church leadership.

Please add this exciting event to your calendar and come out to support Mary and her many creative talents!