Byas: Found objects find a new home
There is a big surprise on Cherry Street. It is the work of Macon-based artist Timothy Hedden -- a whimsical display that impressively stands in the window at the 567 Center for Renewal.
The self-taught artist, with an interest in vintage objects, recycles and creates fascinating two- and three-dimensional artwork. His technique includes found objects -- figurines, costume jewelry, chalk, plaques, beads and lots of glitter -- that become wall hangings, collages, paintings and items in display cases. Hedden collects materials at thrift stores, yard sales and flea markets, and people often give him things such as refrigerator magnets, toys and buttons just to see what the results will be.
Hedden has exhibited all over the state, including a 2013 exhibition at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Macon and an exhibition in the Immigrations Gallery at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport in 2006. The airport exhibition included a collage piece entitled, "Summer Time in the South," which is permanently on display there now.
He is most known for his "Angels of Virtue," a set of 15 items based on a collection originally created on postcards. The larger scale versions that displayed at the Atlanta Airport in 2009 look like paintings, but they are actually paper collages that utilize images from magazines and other publications. One of those pieces now resides at the Dove Center of the Macon Rescue Mission.
Reproductions of Hedden's work will be available for purchase soon on consumer products such as jewelry boxes, bookmarks and ornaments. He also looks forward to exhibiting at the Tubman Museum next summer.
About his Cherry Street display, Hedden said, "I'm excited about this project. It began as one piece -- 'The Shoe' -- to be displayed between the two entrance doors. It quickly became an exhibit for the entire window, which took over five hours to stage."
The 567 is equally excited about the display.
"We're glad to have Timothy's work here. I specifically requested that he decorate the window for Christmas," said Beth Smith, fine arts director at the 567. "His assemblages are very interesting and many visitors have found his work very attractive. We're also excited about 2016 and look forward to continuing to bring art and classes to downtown and Middle Georgia."
Hedden's artwork will be at the 567 for only one more week, so take a stroll down Cherry Street one evening soon and catch a glimpse of the wonderful display in the window.
May the joys of the holiday season grace your households throughout the upcoming year. Happy New Year!
Contact Melanie Byas at melanie@retrowarehouse.com.
This story was originally published December 31, 2015 at 3:18 PM with the headline "Byas: Found objects find a new home ."