Artist Siri Selle’s painting of Rome to hang at state capitol

A painting depicting iconic Rome structures by a local artist is hanging at the state capitol.

Siri Selle’s “Towers By Night” shows the clocktower and two church steeples lit against the night sky and is part of “The Art of Georgia II: Portraits of a Community” exhibit that will hang in the executive offices of the state capitol for six months.

The exhibit seeks to capture the uniqueness of communities throughout Georgia as seen, explored and depicted through the artist’s eye.

Selle said several months ago, Layton Roberts, a Rome Area Council for the Arts board member, told her about the exhibit and encouraged her to apply for a spot.

“I would have never known about this opportunity if it hadn’t been for him,” Selle said. “I’m really appreciative that we have organizations and people in Rome who are supportive and who are looking out for local artists.”

Selle applied for a spot in the exhibit and submitted three different pieces. After learning “Towers By Night” was selected, she drove to Atlanta on Tuesday to present the painting at the state capitol.

She spoke briefly with Governor Nathan Deal and his wife Sandra.

“I got to say hello to them and I told them I was from Rome and the painting represents Rome,” Selle said. “They recognized the clocktower and were excited to hear that the painting represented our community.”

The exhibit features several other pieces of art including paintings, photographs, mixed media and quilts that represent communities all across the state. “Towers By Night” and the other pieces will hang at the capitol for six months.

Selle said when the exhibit is over, the painting will be for sale. She also plans to make special edition prints of the new famous painting that will be available on her web site, www.studiosiri.com.