A Vibrant Canvas of History: The Stanley-Casey House Unveils New Artwork
The Stanley-Casey House is more than just modern office space – it's a living tribute to Shelbyville's rich history. We're committed to preserving the past while fostering a dynamic space for our community. Our recent renovations reflect this philosophy, and so does our newest addition: a commissioned piece of art.
Inspiration from the Garden
The story behind this artwork is as unique as Shelbyville itself. We drew inspiration from a newspaper interview with Betty Matthews, a former president of the Shelby County Historical Society. The interview took place in the beautiful flower garden Ms. Matthews meticulously tended to on our very grounds. This garden, bursting with irises each spring, continues to bloom even today.
The enduring spirit of this garden sparked an idea – flowers would be the perfect theme for our first commissioned artwork. After all, flowers embody the cycle of life: planting, growth, bloom, and withering. This metaphor perfectly reflects the story of the Stanley-Casey House itself.
Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Present
Our mission is to celebrate the past while introducing modern elements. This artwork beautifully captures that spirit. The painting features three distinct flowers:
Irises – A tribute to Ms. Matthews' beloved flowerbeds.
Hydrangeas – A peek into the future, as we plan to introduce these beauties to the property soon (and a personal favorite of mine!).
Ranunculus – Representing the artist's own artistic voice.
Each bloom pays homage to a remarkable woman who are helping to shape our community.
More Than Just a Title: Time is Just a Melody
The title, "Time is Just a Melody," perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Stanley-Casey House. Here, history and modern life intertwine, creating a vibrant space that both inspires and celebrates our community. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by this unique piece in the lounge. The striking contrast – a vibrant cream background against dramatic black magnolia wallpaper – makes the painting a focal point that begs to be explored.
About the Artist
Shakia Harris, a local Shelbyville artist, brings her signature style to the Stanley-Casey House. Her oil paintings are characterized by thick texture, vibrant colors, and emotional brushstrokes. Harris is not only an artist, but also an educator and advocate. She discovered the power of art as a therapeutic outlet in 2018 and has since used it to give back to her community. In 2020, she founded an art business to raise funds for her special education classroom. Her work has been exhibited in Louisville and featured in various media outlets.
