3 Dames

Each of us has an inner voice. For artists, that voice constantly whispers “create.” While this doesn't always lead to a finished piece, when it does, sharing it is a true joy and privilege. 

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One of the best ways to ignite the creative spark is through collaboration. In this spirit of camaraderie and creativity, these three artists come together to exhibit their work. Linda Blair, Marcia Shelly (Maru), and Cheryl Massey (cherdo) showcase their talents across various mediums, including watercolor, acrylic, pastel, and ink. You never know what they'll create next, but they do so to bring delight to the world of art.

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Dame Linda Blair shares this about their unique partnership, “We created Three Dames a few years ago to enjoy the advantages of exhibiting collectively. We each lean towards water media, which naturally allows our work to be a cohesive display.” Linda’s painting, “Old House, East Garden” began as a plein air from her front porch, viewing her neighbor’s house through the lovely tall phlox in her own garden. Linda took liberties by aging her neighbor’s home so that the painting reflects memories of her grandmother’s gardens, “My grandmother would be especially pleased to find the focus of tall phlox, an older flower originating in gardens long, long ago.”

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Dame Marcia Shelly, recognized by the signature, “Maru”, specializes in vibrant colorful paintings that have captured the attention of admirers throughout the U.S. and internationally. She sees art as a wonderful puzzle, finding the key to balance, color, depth and composition and making them fit together.  In her own words, “You think you know what you are going to achieve right from the start, you think you know the key to the puzzle. It will always trick you. Finding the ‘wow’ can be very elusive.”

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The third member of Three Dames is Cheryl Massey. “Cherdo” is a self-taught artist and Tennessee native. She is a lifelong enthusiast of paint, pencil and pastels. Cheryl states, “Paintings that just happen over time are always the most enjoyable to create. My painting, ‘Fall Nap’ started as an exercise in a class I teach for beginning watercolor students at the Fountain City Art Center. The goal was to tackle one realistic leaf per week and the more I demonstrated, the more it seemed like a painting was evolving. The cushion of leaves seemed like a perfect spot for a tired little chipmunk to take a nap!”

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In past years, the 3 Dames have exhibited throughout East Tennessee, in venues that include the Emporium, Plateau Art Gallery (Crossville), Tomato Head restaurants, Awaken Coffee, and Good Samaritan of Crossville. Their work will be at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Church in October and back at the Emporium in February 2025.

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