Macon, Georgia – The description reads, “The 567 Center is a creative community space for events, classes, exhibits, new businesses and more. Anyone can create something new, connect with others, or encounter art of all kinds at the 567 Center.” It is such a modest epithet for such a rewarding platform.
Entryway to The Center for Renewal in downtown Macon. Photo by Donja M. Harper.
The 567 Center caters not only to artists but entrepreneurs, children, and those seeking to acquire a peace of mind as well as an appreciation for fine art. I had the pleasure of speaking with Colin Penndorf the center’s Fine Art Director. Penndorf elaborated on the mission and opportunities offered at the 567 Center. I was surprised to learn that the 567 Center offers a place to enjoy your very own bottle of wine while indulging in your creative artistry. He also stated they bring in musical acts for time to time and offer small rental space for events as wells as incubation for up and coming entrepreneurs. “It’s to help build up local businesses that need some help getting started,” said Penndorff.
The highlight of the day was the showcasing of artwork by featured artist of the month Brian A. Woods. Woods who is a native of Savannah, Georgia uses a vast array of media to tell a story. The first piece analyzed was the “Field Hand” which is a figurative painting depicting generational picking of cotton. The next painting “Collapse” was even more intriguing as I learned had a price tag of $1865.00. Penndorf explained how the price tied into the symbolism of the painting. “1865 was the tail end of the Civil War as King Cotton collapsed,” Penndorf said. The depth of the picture along with its message was masterfully orchestrated. It’s amazing how Woods completely captures the essence of a time shrouded in pain.
Colin Penndorf is the art director for The 567 Center for Renewal. Photo by Donja M. Harper.
Lastly, I caught sight of a darker side of the artist. The piece was entitled “The Friendship Tree” which was an abstract depiction of a lynching. I must say this piece was haunting just as much as it was creative. “The Friendship Tree” was also a three-part collection which also included, the paintings “Strange Fruit” and “Local Harvest.” Summing up the great magnitude of Mr. Woods visual mastery is difficult. I highly recommend viewing these pieces as they thoroughly exhibit the dexterity of the artist Brian A. Woods.
For more information on the 567 Center for Renewal you can visit their website. The 567 Center for Renewal is located a 456 First St. Macon, Georgia.
Art by Brian A. Woods is currently on display at the 567 Center. Photo by Donja M. Harper.
Don Harper's passion for writing came at an early age. As a second grader, he wrote his first short story, one about his father, a fireman. His teacher typed and edited it, and made the story into a hardbound book. This cherished memory inspired this now 35 year from Milledgeville to create.
He is also fascinated by the culture of hip-hop. He began to write poetry and lyrics, and by the time I was in high school had joined a music group who performed live shows and even opened up for some major artists. His current endeavors include working on a trilogy of short stories and finishing his studies at Middle Georgia State University. He is completing his Bachelor of Arts, majoring in New Media and Communication. He hopes to one day acquire a position as a writer for a major network and to also have penned a best-selling novel.
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