After the success of last year's Art House 07, organizers Jennifer and Richard Rush decided to open their home again for Art House 08.
The Rushes will empty their home of all its belongings to fill it with art from seven valley artists for a two-day exhibition. This year Art House 08 will have an opening gala on Friday, Sept. 26, from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 2-6 p.m. All artists will be in attendance on Friday.
"We had a friend who did a similar thing at her house, and we wanted to do a bigger show," said Jennifer. "Last year we transformed our house into a gallery for the evening. Over 200 people came, and it was great fun for the weekend."
The Rushes had their Hailey home designed by Wood River Valley architect Michael Barker, who created a modern house with high ceilings, large spaces and white walls. Lighting for artwork was also installed.
"I grew up in New York City," Jennifer said. "When we moved here we met Michael Barker, and we wanted to create a loft-type space in downtown Hailey. We have a contemporary space, and last year people thought it was a gallery, but it is a home."
Art House 08 will include several types of work including sculpture, drawings, paintings, photography, ceramics and mixed media. Area artists participating in the show are Joseph Castle, Julie Singer, Richard Rush, Jennifer Jaros Jacoby, Dennis Rexroad and Julie Harvey. In addition, Boise artist Gerald Exline will also exhibit.
"I have a lot of friends who are artists," Jennifer said. "I am an actress and love to support people who are trying to make a go of it with their art. It's a fun evening and last year we did sell over 30 works."
Jennifer said Friday evening is more of party atmosphere and opening for the artists and during the day on Saturday things will be quieter. Works for sale will range in price from $200 to $6,000. The artists will be available both days to meet people.
Art House 08 is at 203 W. Croy St. in Hailey. For details, call 788-9035.
Dennis Rexroad’s colored photograph of a New York City streetscape will be on exhibition at Art House 08.
