On Saturday, July 28, artist Scott S. Hunter will have an opening at the Coastal Frameshop and Gallery on Route One in Rehoboth. Innovation, whimsy and an amazing installation of papier mâché critters will be on hand.

Letters Feature Editor Fay Jacobs asked Scott a little bit about his art and times—and what people can expect from his very original concept show.

FJ: Can you tell me a little bit about the new exhibit? When were the pieces done and how did you decide to concentrate on the whimsical fish?

SH: The pieces are all brand new for the most part. I am continually making new pieces and started the whole sea life theme. I’ve always been drawn to the marine world. I get a lot of my ideas and inspiration from being at the beach (including Rehoboth). I spend almost all my vacation time on the Eastern Shore—either in Bethany Beach or Kure Beach in North Carolina, near Wilmington.

The sea is a hidden world of strange and mysterious creatures with wild forms and colors. I love color and form and feel the sea is an excellent resource for ideas. Fish in general are an amazing species—the incredible variety of shapes, sizes, and colors are huge inspirations for me. The fish genre also allows me to experiment with new metallic color glosses.

FJ: What mediums do you favor working in?

SH: My primary medium is papier mâché—using both wire, wood, clay and other materials mixed in for good measure.

FJ: What has been your most satisfying experience in the art world?

SH: Other than having the opportunity to have a show in Rehoboth? Well, honestly, I feel that just having the opportunity to create my art is the most satisfying experience I could ever hope to have. That and when I had my first "show" of my art at a local gay coffee shop in DC (now gone).

FJ: If you could have your art shown anywhere or displayed in any one place, where would you like it to be?

SH: Great question...I have always fantasized about doing something in a permanent installation. Something like the wild fountains in front of the Pompidou Art Museum in Paris. Something that could live on in a public setting long after I’m gone. Ideally, a creation that would be inviting and fun.

FJ: What would you like art lovers who view your exhibit to take away from it (besides buying a piece!)?

SH: That my work touched them in some way—hopefully, in a positive way. To be open to taking chances—with color, form and style. To be open to spontaneity in life.

FJ: Who are your favorite artists and why?

SH: Steven Hanson has been ahuge influence for me—he does papier mâché sculpture and actually got his start in Washington, DC. His work is always very comical and satirical—an alligator in a business suit with an alligator brief case, etc.—his pieces tend to be more life-size. He took the papier mâché medium to a whole new level with his sculptures. I’ve been following him for years. His work inspires me and helped me to realize the potential of papier mâché.

One of my other favorite artists is Julie Tamor.

I was so moved by the costumes and puppets she designed for The Lion King musical on Broadway. They really left me breathless. The scope and depth of her work and the imagination thatshe brings to it has been a major influence.

FJ: Have you been to Rehoboth Beach much? If so, what do you think of this town as if refers to encouraging the arts?

SH: I’ve lived in the DC area since the early 80s and have been to the Rehoboth area countless times. I am very much of a beach person and have always loved this town. In that time, I’ve seen Rehoboth grow into a vibrant community with great restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and art events. I have friends whogo to the film festival every year. From what I’ve seen, Rehoboth is waking up to the value of supporting the arts and I think that is a very positive thing.

FJ: Well, thanks, Scott—I look forward to seeing those whimsical fish.

SH: Hope to see you at the show!