November 9, 2007 — February 10, 2008

Appleby Foundation Gallery

Lines of Discovery: American Drawings celebrates the rich history of American drawing and explores how artists have used the medium to define the nation’s evolving character. The featured works were selected by the Asheville Art Museum from the holdings of The Columbus Museum in Columbus, GA.; one of the most important collections of American drawings in the Southeast.

The exhibition represents various styles and techniques through works by major artists from the late 19th century to the present. While showcasing an overview of American art, Lines of Discovery attests to the unique properties of drawing and its status as the most intimate, immediate and versatile art medium.

Lines of Discovery includes works by 19th century American artists William Merritt Chase, Thomas Cole and Winslow Homer. Also included are a range of works by diverse 20th century artists such as Charles Burchfield, Isamu Noguchi and Andrew Wyeth. In addition, there are drawings by contemporary artists like Thornton Dial, Leslie Dill and Jerome Witkin.

The selected works demonstrate the essential role drawing has played in the formation and development of American art. While representing an overview of American art, Lines of Discovery attests to the unique properties of drawing and its status as the most intimate, immediate and versatile art medium.

Lines of Discovery underscores the importance of drawing as a medium and its historical role as the fundamental skill required of virtually all artists, architects and designers.

Bank of America is the sole sponsor of Lines of Discovery: American Drawings. Michael Andry, Senior Vice President and Market Executive for U.S. Trust - Bank of America Private Wealth Management said, “This project provides Bank of America with an outstanding opportunity to promote the visual arts in Western North Carolina and support one of the region’s premier cultural institutions.”

Related Programs:

Film Screening: Drawing the Line: A Portrait of Keith Haring

Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9, 2:00 p.m.

Up for Discussion: Tom Butler: American Drawings

Friday, January 18, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m., Museum’s WNC Resource Center

Up for Discussion: Lorraine Walsh "Drawing Today"

Thursday, January 31, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m., Museum's WNC Resource Center

Image credit:

Charles Burchfield (1893-1967)
Daybreak, circa 1920
Watercolor and pencil on woven paper
26 13/16 x 35 ½ x 1 ¾