Equine Expressions opens this Friday at the Upstairs Artspace to coincide with the Block House Steeplechase. A public reception will be held race Saturday, April 17, from 5 to 8 p.m.

This is the first time the Upstairs has undertaken an exhibit thats all about the horse; or brought together many Carolina artists who are inspired by this magnificent animal.

Mase Lucas, Teri Pena and Keith Spencer own horses. Perhaps thats why their large and gorgeous paintings communicate so much knowledge and personal intimacy. Spencer is a bold colorist who places his horses in different seasonal landscapes. Lucas and Pena work predominantly with natural earth tones; their horses fill out the canvas with forceful realism.

Teresa Prater uses pigmented wax in the encaustic process to execute small horse paintings, including portraits. Phil Garretts more abstract style uses color-drenched equine shapes in paintings and monoprints.

Ruth Apter and Jim Whalen collaborate on decorative ceramic vessels covered with horses in motion, while Apter has sculpted fetish-like horses.

Each of these artists is a well established and respected professional, exhibiting frequently in fine Southeastern galleries and being chosen for public and private art collections. Most have shown before at the Upstairs.

Equine Expressions continues through May 29, along with a second exhibit, Seduction: Layered Interpretations. A Walk & Talk tour of both exhibits conducted by artists is Sunday, April 25, at 2 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 828-859-2828 for information.