CHAFFEE ARTIST EYES MISSOURI LANDMARKS; EXHIBIT OPENS SUNDAY AT GALLERY 100

Here are just a few words to describe a man from Chaffee named Aaron Horrell: dairy farmer, father of four, gardener, weed and grass trimmer, artist.

If the word artist somehow doesn't fit into the picture of a man who is busy with the farm and family, an exhibit of Horrell's paintings might change that mental picture.

"Sometimes I wonder where I find the time," said Horrell, in reference to his painting and photography. "There are just so many things that demand attention. I just try to make the most of my time when I find it.

"At times, it really frustrates me to leave, and I think, `If only I had more time.' Then again, if things aren't going as well as planned, and I leave, when I come back later I can sometimes look at things with a different perspective."

Horrell's work will be exhibited through July at Gallery 100 in the Boatman's Bank building, 100 Broadway.

His interest in art did not really strike until he was a 17-year-old high-school student.

"I was sitting around in study hall one day," said Horrell, "and I saw this picture on a calendar that really impressed me. It was of a mountain snow scene, something like you would see in Colorado.

"I looked at it and something just turned a light on inside my head. I thought, if I could only paint like the way God created things, I would have it made."

Horrell said, though, that he isn't in art for the money.

"The only thing I hope for," he said, "is that these paintings can leave something for my kids. Maybe some day they might be valuable enough that my kids could sustain themselves for a while if they were ever needy."

His paintings cover a broad spectrum of subjects but his eye for detail and vivid colors stands out in all his works. Two mural-type paintings of Cape Girardeau and Chaffee landmarks and scenery exhibit his colorful style.

Those two paintings have been turned into postcards. Horrell will sign and date the Cape Girardeau postcards at a public reception at Gallery 100 from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday.

"As of right now I have not marketed these postcards," he said. "I really don't know which businesses want to sell my cards yet. I wish I could find somebody that would help do the marketing of my cards for me."

People who have seen his work say he has a great eye for detail. But Horrell said that surprises him.

"I don't think my paintings are that detailed," he said. "The thing about painting is that the viewer will find detail that isn't truly there. People know what things look like but they are sometimes insulted if too much detail is put in. Then again, not enough detail is not good either. You have to strike a good balance.

"To copy something exact is far-fetched. Very few artists even have the capability of painting photo realism. I have learned to accept what I can do, and that pleases me."

When asked what object or place he would like to paint in the future if he had the opportunity, Horrell said: "Some day I would like to paint a postcard of the state of Missouri. I think it would be great to go all over the state and be able to paint the Arch, Jefferson City, or Mark Twain's home.

"If I did that, I might even go one step further and do one of the United States."

Horrell encourages those interested in painting to go ahead and try it.

"I always try to tell people who want to paint to do it, but to not be afraid of what other people will say.

"If your mom walks in and sees you painting, and she looks at it and asks `What is it?' go ahead and tell her but go ahead with your work.

"I also tell people to don't paint like the next guy. Try to be different because that is more important to your work."

Horrell's exhibit may be seen free of charge from 1-4 p.m. weekdays.

The Southeast Missouri Council of the Arts is sponsoring the exhibit. The mission of the council is to encourage participation in and enjoyment of the arts. The council is financially assisted by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

If you are interested in Horrell's work, you can write to him at: Route 1, Box 689, Chaffee, Mo. 63740.