Oviedo resident Joy Hayes is the most recent artist whose work will be exhibited at the African American Museum of the Arts in DeLand. The multidimensional artist has worked with a variety of media and techniques, but is most recognized for her large-scale pastel illustrations of famous individuals.
A self-taught artist, she brings the canvas to life after spending years perfecting the pastel color blending with her hands.
Hayes works from a drawing, lays down several underpainting layers, and then manipulates pastel paint to achieve the desired illusion.
She believes that by using her work to reach people’s hearts, she may stimulate their emotions to have a beneficial impact on the viewer.
Hayes will have an opening reception 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at the museum, which is located at 325 S. Clara Ave. in DeLand. The reception is free and open to the public.
