Asheboro, NC - The Randolph Arts Guild set to host a Lunch & Learn event for artist Derek Toomes.  Derek’s work is currently on display in the Randolph Arts Guild’s Sara Smith Self Gallery located at 123 Sunset Ave. in downtown Asheboro. The Lunch & Learn event will be held Tuesday, November 26th at noon in the gallery. The event will free and the public is encouraged to attend and bring a bag lunch. 

Artist Derek Toomes is a Randolph County native currently based in Raleigh, NC.  He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from UNCG in 2004 and has since been active in the art community.  Inspired by graffiti, skateboarding culture, and urban landscapes, Derek Toomes has combined these influences into his own personal technique and style. He often mimics street art and it’s transience but adds a touch of the urbane, which allows his work to communicate a sense of culture while, at the same time, commenting on that culture. 

Having spent an extended time in Los Angeles, Derek’s work is also influenced by Latino art. He often uses richer textures, more luxurious colors, and more ornamental, hand-drawn lettering, which both compliment and provide a stark contrast to his grittier, more urban techniques.  He works with a number of mediums from aerosol paint, marker, wheat paste, and acrylic on conventional sized canvases, to large installations that often incorporate video elements. 

Derek’s work has been featured in various progressive art shows, and he has been invited to work on an array of collaborative art projects throughout Northern America. 

Toomes’ work will be on display in the Sara Smith Self Gallery at the Randolph Arts Guild, located at 123 Sunset Ave. Asheboro, NC through November 26th.   

For more information please call the Randolph Arts Guild at 336-629-0399 or email arts@asheboro.com for more information.  The Guild is located at 123 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, NC 27203. Hours: Mon -Fri, 10 am - 5 pm, Sat, 10 am - 2 pm. 

###