On First Friday, you will have an opportunity to celebrate the opening of Professor John Malcolm McRae’s sculptural exhibit, his first in more than 5 years.

Champagne, courtesy of Downtown Wine & Spirits will be served, along with light bites from Rosa’s Catering, and chocolate truffles by Kilwins. John will unveil new works and discuss his inspirations & processes.

McRae Studio; image submitted

The work will remain on display, and for sale, at Knoxville Soap Candle & Gifts for the month of February. Most of John’s work is by commission. He’ll be offering special rates to event guests, all month long, the perfect bespoke gift for your Valentine!

In celebration of Valentine’s First Friday, Knoxville darling, Kelle Jolly will be the musical entertainment from 6-8pm.

The Exhibit Opening will be at Knoxville Soap Candle & Gifts, 714 South Gay Street, Suite 100, Knoxille, on Friday, February 1st, from 4-8pm. Admission is free.

John Malcolm McRae is an architect and Emeritus Professor in The University of Tennessee (UT) College of Architecture and Design. His work at UT focuses on projects in Haiti and Appalachia. He is also working as a ceramic artist, creating Raku fired torsos and fantasy creatures. His work on torsos is primarily focused on custom work for clients. It is hand built, while done with careful attention to accuracy in seeking to capture the essence of the subject. McRae works out of Mighty Mud Ceramics, a pottery facility serving a community of artists in Knoxville, TN, where he currently resides. McRae’s sculpture work has been displayed in galleries in Seaside, FL, New York City, Highlands, NC, the NY Hamptons and Knoxville, TN.

McRae has, over his career, served as Dean at two universities, including The University of Tennessee and Mississippi State University. He is a registered architect and a graduate of The University of Texas and Rice University. He has been involved in a range of research and creative works including studies in gerontology and environmental education for children. McRae is a Fellow in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and served as National President of the Association of Colleges and Schools of Architecture. He is self taught in his ceramic work, in which he has been engaged for seven years. His sculpture work has been received by clients in 16 states, WDC, and internationally.