A Cheesy October at the Cheese House Gallery

The 10 artists collectively known as ARTMIX have created a witty, imaginative take on “Cheese” as the theme of their October show at the Cheese House Gallery.

Member Barbara Timberman explained that members “like to work on the same theme, but prefer to interpret it in their individual styles.”

ARTMIX artists chose cheese to honor the Gallery’s original purpose as a retail outlet for dairy products produced by Lees-McRae College students in the early years of the 20th century. The artwork isn’t edible, but it is decidedly eclectic. Amy Cooke’s silk, cotton, and glass “fantasy cheese boxes” are “inspired by elegant and quirky artisanal cheese packaging.”

Ann Burgess, who has illustrated for New Yorker Magazine, offers watercolors of a butler with a cheese tray and a cheese maker ladling curds.

Judy Humphrey’s photo transfers, “Pretty Cheesy” and “Say Cheese,” present multiple layers of meaning.

All of the artwork is small format, with media ranging from acrylic on cork to collage. ARTMIX artists have also illustrated a collection of aprons that can be used for more practical purposes. All of the artwork is small format, with prices ranging from $75 to $300. The aprons are $25 each.

The Cheese Exhibit runs through Oct. 31. A project of the Avery County Arts Council, the Cheese House Gallery is located at 630 Shawneehaw Ave. (N.C. 184) in Banner Elk. Gallery Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

For more information, contact the Avery County Arts Council at (828) 898-4292 or info@averycountyartscouncil.org.