Art show to celebrate Tom Acosta’s four decades of painting West Virginia

BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The public is invited to attend an exciting art show presented by Rizo/Bickey, celebrating Tom Acosta’s 40-year career of painting West Virginia.

The event, Tom Acosta: Four Decades of Painting West Virginia, will showcase the renowned artist’s works, including his well-known murals in Welch, Princeton, and Hinton.

The show will be held on Friday, October 18th from 6-8 PM in downtown Beckley, with a $10 admission fee. A free Open House will follow on Saturday during the same hours.

The timing of the exhibit is special, as October 12th marks Tom’s birthday, making the show a tribute to his contributions to Southern West Virginia and beyond.

Acosta has painted in every corner of the state, capturing its beauty and spirit through his murals and other works.

A highlight of the show will be the appearance of internationally renowned singer-songwriter John Ellison, who will visit on Friday.

Ellison, a native of McDowell County like Acosta, is best known for writing and recording the hit song Some Kind of Wonderful with The Soul Brothers Six.

The single was famously covered by Grand Funk Railroad in 1974, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard charts, and has since been covered by over 70 artists, including Rod Stewart, Joss Stone, and Huey Lewis & The News.

At the show, Acosta will unveil a study for a life-size portrait of Ellison, which he has been commissioned to paint.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet both Acosta and Ellison, adding a personal touch to the celebration of art and music.

Be sure to come out and enjoy an evening of art, music, and community on October 18th and 19th in downtown Beckley!