Local artist introduces abstract art for all seasons

Local artist Joseph Raymond poses with abstract "Colors of Life." A recreation in much larger dimensions will decorate the west-facing wall of the parking structure of the 1894 building. (Submitted photo)
Local artist Joseph Raymond poses with abstract "Colors of Life." A recreation in much larger dimensions will decorate the west-facing wall of the parking structure of the 1894 building. (Submitted photo)

As downtown Texarkana continues to develop as the town's cultural and historical center, art is appearing on a variety of surfaces. At the historic 1894 Lofts building, already the home of art galleries and more, the next step is coming up for an art display.

"I'm going to be building a parking structure for the 1894 Loft tenants," said David Peavy, Texarkana entrepreneur. "The building location has been marked out and we break ground (this week)," he said.

According to Peavy, the parking structure's westward facing wall, towards Bi-State Justice Center, will serve as the location for a mural, based on work by local artist Joseph Raymond.

"It's gonna be cool," said Raymond. "The work, entitled 'Colors of Life', is a part of my 'bright, fluid' series, which features movement and color. Titled 'Colors of Life', the original piece is intended to reflect the seasons and the holidays."

The original work's dimensions, according to Raymond, are 12 inches by 125 inches. The reproduction that will be going up on the westward facing wall of the 1894 parking structure will be 10 feet by 125 feet.

"Downtown is a place where our city's history is reflected in the traditions, stories and structures," he said. "With this work, I want to create something that adds color and life, reflecting the present day and extending into the future. Life happens, light, dark, winter, summer, but it all has a place and purpose. No matter where you look at 'Colors of Life', you will see this reflected. I recall Romans 8:28, 'All things work together for good, for those who love God."

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