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NUTS II: A NEW BAG
Sheldon Rooney

On dispay from 19 May – 2 June 2017

Reception Fri 26 May 5:30PM

“Nuts Two? I’ve never even heard of Nuts One! What’s your name? Never heard of ya.”

My name is Sheldon Rooney. Nice to meet you. Again, for the first time, perhaps. It’s been awhile. I’ll explain:

“Nuts: Another Mixed Bag” was a 2009 art show of mine at the forever revered CRAM Art Gallery here in St.Kitts. Tobey C. Anderson, Owner. I was welcomed into Tobey’s world after my first show “Private People” at the Niagara Artists Centre. He became my mentor and friend and we spent a lot of good times together. He’d let me crash on the couch and I’d dig him a coy pond. He’d give me endless encouragement and I’d help him pack a container to be shipped to artists in Cuba. He is now a beautiful memory and his art will live on. Tobe. We went to a Gentlemans Club once and you fell asleep. Watching your peacefully deep face that night as I swatted away the strippers I felt I had found family. Rest well. This show is dedicated to you.

It’s been six years since my last solo show. In that time I became a father to my son, Declan. I kept creating work but I had left the scene. My boy is a little man now and already a talented, and passionate art enthusiast. I want to show him what’s possible. Bring work out to the public and see what happens. Maybe make a couple bucks. Good stuff for young eyes to see in times like these, am I right?

This show is a celebration of perserverance through custody battle pain, depression, and fear. Everything we feel when things get heavy. I cope in colour. “Heavy Metal loud” colour as Tobey once described my work. Tears have fallen on this work but joy and love (Sara! Declan!) has raised it to the walls of the never dull, always delivering Niagara Atrists Centre.

It’s crazy! It’s a New Bag! Of Nuts! Something for everyone young and old!! Won’t you come get Nuts with me?

Hope you have a chance to come and see the work and join me for a cheers on Friday 26 May from 5:30-8:30 at NAC.

-Sheldon Rooney