CARE is very excited to announce that the work of Joe Wrenn has made it back to our gallery for community viewing and purchase.
Joe lives out in the country of Tallahatchie County, about five miles from Charleston. He is a product of country life, taught and trained by his maternal grandfather and uncles to live off the land. He is of his environment. He paints from visions and memories. He is a dancer, a real cowboy, an artist and a generous soul.
There are many ways in which Joe Relius is an “artist.” He paints in a self-taught, primitive style, capturing nature the way he remembers and envisions it. He is Charleston’s “Grampa Moses!” He is also a wood carver, sign-maker and recycle champion. He sees value in all materials, whether they’re new or previously owned. Joe is a “generous soul and a cheerful giver,” giving to the less fortunate and helping people in need throughout his community.
He has donated some of his paintings to help with fundraising events for people in need. It only takes a few minutes with Joe to see his joy for life and for helping others.
Joe was born on March 4, 1960, to Heaby Jean Wrenn and Monroe Jones. Joe was one of 10 children and was mostly raised by his Granddaddy, Joe S. Wrenn, who was a sharecropper, horse trainer and coon hunter. Joe’s formal education stopped after tenth grade. He has worked numerous jobs during his years.
Joe’s favorite place to be is outdoors. He paints, carves or draws when he’s lonely or feeling down. And he will tell you that his favorite song is “Amazing Grace.”.
We invite you to stop by CARE in the coming weeks to see the many paintings and many talents of Joe Wrenn.
