Discovering the Chattahoochee Valley - silk paintings by René Shoemaker

Columbus Museum. 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus, Ga

Columbus is alive with the dreams of the people who live here and the people who visit. I am fascinated by the town of Columbus, and find endless enjoyment in exploring the area.

The Chattahoochee Valley - with its long history, incredible depth, abundant natural resources, and lively community - provides a wealth of inspiration for an artist. The river is a constant presence, always moving, powerful yet calming.
The rail lines cross the town, river, and country, and the streets of downtown Columbus are flat and straight, creating sightlines I have only experienced out west. The water towers, mill stacks, and church steeples punctuate the sky with a beautiful grace.

During my time here I marveled at the clear blue sky and at the setting sun as it lit up the water tower at Broadway and Front Street. Watching it illuminate the town, I was dazzled by that reflected light, and tried to capture it in my own way.