First Fridays
June 6, 2008 Show
Cecile Charles, Artist
Cecile Charles ventured into the world of art, selling her first work in Sacramento at age 14. A large realistic/abstract artwork of a lion, it now resides in a private collection in California. Immersed in the San Francisco street art era in the late seventies, Cecile would meet her clients down on the wharf early in the morning. They waited to present her with a fresh canvas, some as large as 10’ by 12’. She would spend 12 hours creating, then deliver a glowing abstract at the end of the day when the client returned, check in hand for the artwork. Trained as an oil painter, she now explores all the media available on the market, and steps out into unexplored territory when the muse insists.
In 1978 Cecile moved to Spokane. She was one of Spokane’s best-kept secrets, though she was actively selling her works, across several states; from Florida to California and Canada. Now, Spokane is hearing a great deal about her.
Primarily selling Cecile’s art through prints and cards online, Gallery of Thum’ expanded to a retail location in Spokane, in 2006, which acts as a gallery, studio and office. Gallery of Thum' currently promotes Cecile’s artwork but also showcases 47 local and regional artists in all the mediums. The Gallery is involved with dozens of businesses both to promote the artists of the Gallery, and also to be a part of bringing all of Spokane’s artists to the attention of art collectors across the United States.
Cecile passes on her love of art by teaching through Northwest Christian Schools, Inc., home school program, to students of all ages, and private lessons through the Gallery of Thum’.
Current Mediums: Gouache, opaque watercolor, watercolor, acrylic and mixed media.
Cecile is considered an eclectic artist, one who can express herself with equal skill no matter the subject, be it traditional, conceptual, contemporary or abstract, with some political satire thrown in to make her art even more interesting. All you have to do is ask and she will study the subject and develop a piece just for you. Cecile’s art enjoys a large popularity because she has the ability to impact the viewer through many styles. Cecile offers charming small paintings that are the perfect gift for someone special to artworks in the mid-price ranges to that spectacular artwork that makes an excellent conversation piece and investment.
Many of Cecile’s works are sent for competition and sale in California, Florida, New York, Canada and other places. Receiving many awards over the years, Cecile stuffs them in a drawer, most gratified that her work is well received. Her greatest joy is to see her work on your walls. Don’t worry though; she won’t come and visit them…she’s busy painting.
Gallery of Thumb - Steamplant - Spokane, WA
