FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact:

Elizabeth Sims
BRP75 Media Relations and Communications
Blue Ridge Parkway Association
828.777.9493

Leesa Brandon
Executive Director and NC Coordinator
Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc.
828.271.4779, x 224

ASHEVILLE, NC and ROANOKE, VA (September 21, 2009) – The states of Virginia and North Carolina share many beautiful things – mountains and forests, farmland and coast, rich heritage and friendly towns. They also share the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and an appreciation for the many talented artists who live along its route.

Two of the most gifted artists from Virginia and North Carolina – P. Buckley Moss and Teresa Pennington, respectively – have created special works of art to commemorate the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary.

Teresa Pennington has created four drawings in her series of limited edition giclees, prints, and notecards. The first two works depict Richland Balsam Overlook and Grandfather Mountain Overlook. Her third in the series – a giclee of Courthouse Valley – will be unveiled from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. October 9 at T. Pennington Gallery located at 15 N. Main Street in Waynesville, NC. The final drawing in the series will be completed in 2010, during the 75th Anniversary year of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Pennington has also created four series of drawings for Biltmore Estate over the past 17 years. Her work has also been commissioned by the U.S. Forest Service and the Western North Carolina Diocese of the Episcopal Church. Pennington’s works are also available at www.tpennington.com.

Moss’s work was recently unveiled at an event in Galax, Virginia, and is available as a limited edition offset lithograph as well as a poster. The print and poster are available at www.pbuckleymoss.com and at authorized Moss dealers.
In addition to Moss’s commercial success as an artist, she has worked to raise over $4 million for charitable organizations and has established the P. Buckley Moss Foundation for Children’s Education, promoting the use of art in school curriculums as a learning instrument for students with learning differences.

Proceeds from the sale of the commemorative prints by both artists will benefit the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary.

Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc. is the non-profit organization designated by the National Park Service to lead the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary celebration. With representation from all of the Parkway’s partner groups, the states of North Carolina and Virginia, and community leaders along the 469-mile scenic route, Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc.’s mission is to engage local communities and all visitors in an anniversary that focuses attention on a sustainable and healthy Parkway for future generations. For more information, visit www.blueridgeparkway75.org.