Three exhibitions open simultaneously, including a Group Exhibit entitled “Spring is in the Air” featuring 40 local artists. Well-known North state pastel artist Tegwin Matenaer, is featured in the Solo Gallery with her show, “LifeScapes”
Flying fairies, chubby ballerinas and elfin creatures are sprinkled throughout the Gallery. These characters are new to the venue and feature rich design, color and skillful construction by Asya Lesly. Some of her “little friends” (undoubtedly inspired by her children) fly through the air, sit precociously on tabletops, and are suspended from the ceiling. Visitors to the Gallery will be immediately greeted by one of the colorful characters, suspended from the ceiling, arms outstretched in welcome, as she flies towards the front door.
Usually known for his pottery, Red Bluff’s Bruce Ross, adds a beautiful surprise to his portfolio as well as the Group Exhibit with an eye-catching photo of an Almond Blossom.
Flowers are definitely a big part of the Group show, with beautiful Calla Lilies by Josifa Casey; an engaging water lily by Marjorie Curl; stunning poppies by photographer Gregg Harmon; an exotic orchid photo by retired Army photographer Bill Chronister; a brilliant Iris by Barbara Luzzadder; a delicate “Butterfly on Daisy” by Peggy Jessop; and Jackie Howard’s “Bee in Water Lilies”.
The exhibits seem to cover a full spectrum of appeal – from a soft and endearing bunny named “Jackie” by Nancy Robison to the eye-popping rich color and geometric design in Mary E. Hoy’s large mandala-like painting.
Gregg Harmon and Reeba Barrows, both featured in popular solo exhibits last month, have new works in the Group show.
Also new to the Gallery is Joel Reinhard with his panoramic photo study entitled “River Bend” and Michael J. Cooke with two 3-Dimensional pieces. Cooke’s “View of Lake Tahoe” is full of life and his 3-D “added materials” create a very interesting piece.
The “LifeScapes”
Most of the works feature places that Gallery viewers will immediately identify with. But Tegwin also gives us two views of the ocean near Asilomar, providing a counterpoint to the local scenes.
Steve Luzzadder presents his magical photographic works in his show “Life’s Rainbows”. “Indigo Moth” and “Spring Tulip” (from the “Tulip Tree”) bring electric color to the exhibit. “Butterfly in Chalk” captures the imagination with its unique color and composition. “The Light of Joseph’s Coat” is a beautifully abstracted contrast to pieces like “Shasta in Spring” and “Lassen in Spring”.
Steve has shown his work at The Big Picture in the past and is also related to another artist in the Group Show, Barbara Luzzadder. Many folks in Red Bluff will remember Barbara from her years of service as Librarian here.
The artists’ Reception for the opening of the three exhibitions will be from 5-9 PM on Friday, April 18th.
Everyone is welcome to attend the Artists’ Reception on Friday night. Dress casual and expect to have fun and be surprised at the large array of unique art. Receptions at the Gallery generally attract 150-200 people. And just like the artists, the viewers come from all walks of life – from young students to bank presidents to retired dentists and organic farmers!
The Red Bluff Art Gallery is at 516 Walnut (kitty corner to the Post Office). More information is available by phoning 529-1332, or by visiting the website at www.RedBluffArtGallery.com. The Red Bluff Art Gallery, sponsored by Blue Oaks Arts, is open weekdays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
