Art reception to benefit Foundation for the Retarded of the Desert. La Quinta Gallery Exhibit Inspired By Old Master Paintings

(PRWEB) October 18, 2004

The show features mixed media paintings inspired by the old master works of Ingres, Millet, Titian, Velazquez, Vermeer and more. Unlike the originals, these mixed media pieces do not cost millions of dollars. Teague creates his art at his Indio studio and has taught art in the Coachella Valley for more than three decades. He has a master’s degree in fine art from Azusa Pacific University, CA and a bachelor’s degree in fine art from the University of Redlands, CA. Michael Hinkle, the gallery’s director believes, “Teague’s sampling from the past helps to educate people about the history of art. The updated paintings are recreated, sometimes in a grand scale, in a blending of contemporary technique and abstraction.”

While browsing the new paintings visitors will have the opportunity to purchase a “painted” stemware glass. The glasses have been painted by the foundations “clients” and will cost five dollars each with 100% of the proceeds going to this important organization. The Foundation was founded in 1959 by a small group of concerned parents who wished to expand the horizons of their children's lives.  Those heroic first efforts drew the invaluable support of the community, and eventually a professional staff has emerged to meet the growing needs of the mentally and physically challenged citizens of the Coachella Valley and the Morongo Basin. In 1969 the Foundation purchased property in Palm Desert and established a workshop program for individuals over the age of 18. The hard work and support of many people have produced results beyond the dreams of that initial handful of parents.  Their goal today, as it was in the beginning, remains unchanged: "...to improve the quality of life for persons who are mentally and physically challenged."

The Figurative Gallery is located in the heart of Old Town La Quinta. The gallery specializes in high quality contemporary sculpture, paintings and mixed media art. Hinkle is a valley native and a fine art appraiser. In collaboration with the La Quinta Arts Foundation, Hinkle is involved in educating children about the world of art. He also serves as a member of the foundation’s scholarship committee. For more information - 760.564.6060.

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