Exhibit part of Black History Month Recognition
By Denise Sinclair (Home staff writer)

     The work of Atlanta artist Sam Guilford is featured this month as part of Black History Month recognition at the Isabel Anderson Comer Museum and Arts Center in Sylacauga.
     Guilford was at the Museum Monday hanging some 55 pieces of work for the exhibit.
     Guilford is a native of Eufala and some of his paintings feature scenes from him years growing up in the southeastern town.
     He was educated in the public schools of Eufala, where his artistic ability was evident at an early age. While primarily self-taught, Guilford has studied under Harriet Wyman and at the Atlanta College of Art.
     Guilford's professional debut came in July 1983, when a collection of his work was displayed at the Richard B. Russell Building in Atlanta, Ga.. The display, titled First Impressions, featured a combination of watercolors and inks.
     Guilford's work conveys two strong elements -- a sense of spirituality coupled with a profound respect for past civilizations that allows him to reflect upon the beauty of nature, God's goodness and God's creations.
     "I have always felt a special connection with the universe. There has always been passion and rage kindled by my position in a society that classifies my art as an extension of my skin hue," Guilford said.                            ■ previous page    next page ■