October 23rd, 2008 CHARLOTTE NC. The Coffey Thompson Gallery, one of the most prestigious galleries in North Carolina, announced yesterday they will begin showing the artwork of Mike Helsabeck, the Lexington NC native most notable for his work with Ducks Unlimited and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Coffey and Thompson will premier Helsabeck’s work during a special November 13th private reception at the gallery. A portion of the proceeds from the show will go to Sportsmen Against Hunger in Charlotte.
Coffey Thompson, founded in 1946, has shown original artwork by critically acclaimed artists from all over the world, including Plasschaert, Ralph McDonald, and John J Audubon. Helsabeck’s inclusion in the gallery is a first for a North Carolina wildlife artist in over a decade. “We’re really excited about showing Mike’s work;” Paul Thompson said yesterday, “his work is outstanding and he’s accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time. It’s hard to believe with all his accomplishments this show is his first gallery show outside of Lexington. Bill (Coffey) and I are excited about hosting his first show and bringing his wonderful art to everyone in Charlotte.”
Helsabeck was selected the NC Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year for three consecutive years. His work was also featured on the 2006, 2007 and 2008 covers of the NC Wildlife Calendars. Helsabeck was named “Best Artist in the Triad” in 2007 by Yes Weekly Magazine and he’s currently working on a joint project with internationally renowned artist Art LaMay. While Helsabeck has had shows with well known artist like Ward Nichols and Ron Louque, the Coffey Thompson show is his first showing of his originals in a gallery outside his own. Helsabeck admits, “I’m still a little overwhelmed at the thought of having my first official show at The Coffey Thompson Gallery. Paul and Bill have forgotten more about the world of art than I’ll ever know. For them to select my work…for them to have a special show for me is really hard to believe.”
The Coffey Thompson Gallery is located at 1412C East 4th St. in Charlotte. For additional information on the show and/or the November 13th reception, please contact Paul Thompson @ (704) 375-7232 or Susan Hargett @ (336) 249-DUCK (3825).