"Multiplicity of Color" Opens at Historic Little Post Office

Lake Lanier Boat House

Artist Kelly Gravely Mattox Brings Exhibit to Hometown

It may be small, but Piedmont Arts’ Little Post Office has a big presence when it comes to art. The historic brick building on Starling Avenue, which served as Martinsville’s first post office, is currently home to an exhibition of work by Lynchburg-based artist Kelly Gravely Mattox.

Featuring still lifes, landscapes and figurative paintings in oil, Mattox’s exhibit Multiplicity of Color, is just that — an eye-catching bouquet of work executed in a lively and vivid kaleidoscope of hues.

“My artwork is an extension of my personality,” said Mattox. "My representational to abstract work has a common theme: lots of energy, exuberant high color, plus an intensity acquired by bold brush strokes. The manipulation and harmony of these components is what intrigues me. ”

Though this is the first time her work has been displayed in Martinsville on a large scale, Mattox is no stranger to the city. She grew up here, living just a short drive from where her artwork is now displayed. She has also previously exhibited work in Piedmont Arts’ annual open-entry exhibit, Expressions, where her painting, New Stove, won Best in Show in 2015.

“It’s an honor to come back home to display my work,” said Mattox. "I am proud to be part of Piedmont Arts’ and my brother Will’s venture with the Little Post Office. It’s nice to re-connect with people I grew up with and for them to see my work. I have lots of good memories here.”

Kelly Gravely Mattox (left) poses with her brother Will at the opening of her exhibit, Multiplicity of Color.

Mattox’s brother, Will Gravely, manages the Little Post Office for Piedmont Arts and says he is ecstatic that his sister’s work is finally on display in their hometown. “I am 

always excited to have artists at the Little Post Office, but it is just amazing to have work by my sister. She is one of my all-time favorite artists.”

White Orchid with Foo

Since 2014, Gravely has worked with Piedmont Arts to bring exhibitions to the Little Post Office. His first exhibit featured work by nationally recognized watercolor artist Jane Iten.

“We are proud to exhibit artists with local and regional ties at the Little Post Office,” said Piedmont Arts Director of Marketing, Communications and Design Bernadette Moore. “We have such amazing artists in our area and we love to showcase their talents whenever possible. The Little Post Office really is a perfect location for these exhibits.”

Visitors can view Multiplicity of Color the Little Post Office through October 2. 

Little Post Office hours are Tuesday – Friday from 11:30 am – 4:30 pm or by appointment. Admission is free. 

Learn more about upcoming exhibits and events at PiedmontArts.org/LPO.