Grace Cathey is a metal sculptor. Her work has been evolving over 20 years from fiber, to works on paper, to metal sculpture. Her passion to create has been constant. Her inspiration comes from the flora and fauna that surround her home, tucked into a deep cove in the Western North Carolina Mountains. Her daily experiences with the beauty of nature around her are translated into her metal sculpture, which expresses her quality of life. In each work, a bit of her spirit is cut deep into the steel.
She and her representational sculptures are regarded as high quality and of special value. Grace abounds with energy and many envy her zeal for people, the environment and life. Her sculptures are acquired by discerning procurers who live in the area or visit from as far away as New York, Florida and California.
Born in Brooksville, Florida, Grace moved to this area to be closer to the naturalistic environment and to associate with other inspired artists. She attended Southwestern Community College, Haywood Community College and Western Carolina University. Her knowledge and skills in welding were launched at Haywood Community College.
Grace has been honored many times with awards and recognition including Waynesville's selection of her outdoor sculpture theme "Bear in Mind It's Feedin Time" on permanent display on main Street. Many of her sculptures were procured by Chimney Rock Park in Lake Lure, to enhance their new interactive nature trail.
Grace is a busy mother of two, Emilie and Turner. She is married to Clayton Cathey who owns and operates the long-standing Walker Service Station. She is active in her community, a supporter of the Arts and is a member of several organizations.
While she creates and finalizes her sculptures in her home workshops, her works can be seen in her Gallery and Sculpture Garden in the Walker Service Station at 136 Depot Street and the corner of Branner and Depot Street in downtown Waynesville.
1977 -1979 |
Haywood Community College |
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Profession Craft Program |
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Fiber |
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1991 - Spring |
Western Carolina University |
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Design Class |
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Emerging Artist Grant H.C.A.C. |
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1995 -1996 |
Haywood Community College |
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Welding Program |