Prints and cigar box guitars on display at Bear’s Mill

During the month of July, “Art at the Mill” will feature the work of Marietta, Ohio printmaker Bobby Rosenstock and cigar box guitars crafted by Mike Knisely of Arcanum. The exhibit at historic Bear's Mill opens on Friday, June 27 with a reception featuring hors d'oeuvres and drinks from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m.; the artists will speak briefly about their creations, methods, and inspiration at 7 p.m. The exhibit will remain on display through Sunday, July 20.

“Bobby has created posters for musicians Willie Nelson, Arlo Guthrie, Dr. John, Taj Mahal and Soundgarden, to name a few; Mike creates unique, beautiful, and playable instruments that are a joy to behold,” said Julie Clark, retail manager and gallery coordinator for Bear's Mill. “This exhibit is different from anything we've ever presented in the gallery, and is not only going to be interesting, but will also be a whole lot of fun,” Ms. Clark stated.

Mike Knisely worked as a carpenter for over twenty years before being downsized in 2009. While enrolled in Design courses, he chose an elective in Guitar Design and Construction, and was intrigued with the concept. He discovered the rich history of homemade instruments, and began building his own guitars from scratch. When he noticed a curious three-stringed guitar in a magazine photo, his subsequent research uncovered enthusiastic support for the art of constructing such instruments. He was hooked, and says that he hopes to make his own mark on this time-honored tradition.

Bobby Rosenstock, who recently received an “Excellence in Design” award from the Ohio Arts Council, owns one of the only woodcut and letterpress poster studios in the country where he creates modern works of art deeply rooted in an age-old craft. Rosenstock believes that printmaking is meant to be shared with other people. “I present characters and stories through my prints; it is my way of creating unique art works that are affordable and accessible to everyone.” the artist explained.

Clay vessels produced by Xenia artist Geno Luketic paired with Kathryn Pitstick's nature prints remain on display at the Mill through Sunday, June 22. “Art At the Mill” receives financial support from Darke County Endowment for the Arts. Art exhibits are on view during regular Mill store hours, 11 a.m. till 5 p.m. daily. Historic Bear's Mill is owned and operated by Friends of Bear's Mill, a non-profit organization, and is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 937-548-5112 or www.bearsmill.com.