First Friday Artist's Reception

Gather at The Artists’ Gallery on July 6th, from 5 to 8 p.m., for downtown Canon City’s “First Friday Frenzy”, and to celebrate the gallery’s 7th anniversary! Our continuing success is only possible with the incredible support of the community, and we would like to express our sincere gratitude. The Featured Artists for July: Many of Sofia Balas’ bold and vibrant acrylic paintings are inspired by the concept of dimensional perception. Incorporating themes from the world around her into surreal settings, her images challenge the imagination, question awareness, and invite reflection. She explains, “I create images of ‘portals’ that transport one to this place of light and infinity.” Classically trained in fine art at the renowned National Academy of Arts in Bulgaria, Sofia’s diverse portfolio also extends to more traditional subjects, such as interiors and still life. These paintings, always with her distinctive penchant for intense color and dramatic sense of time and place, virtually invite one to step into the tableau. Multi-media artist, Diana Werthman, fashions seemingly ordinary natural materials and found “treasures” into beautiful things—inspiring her to name her art business, Something Out of Nothing. Her 3-dimensional artwork includes meticulously hand-crafted pine needle baskets, stunning embellished vessels from gourds, and uniquely adorned shoulder bags. Diana’s talents also encompass watercolor painting and her detailed renderings of birds, flora and fauna are superb. She confided, “I’m enjoying a new chapter in my personal life, having fun, and finally able to reveal my authentic self through my art”. As evidence, Diana’s new work conveys a lighter, more spontaneous quality. Join us in recognition of these exceptional artists, and to support the arts right here in our own community! Our “First Friday Frenzy” guest artist, Modesta Baker, will display her work on the walkway in front of the gallery, and classic folk/rock music will be performed live by guitarist/singer, Tom Gudding! Complimentary refreshments will be served, and be sure to enter our drawing for an original work of art! The Artists' Gallery offers high-quality original art and gift items in an inviting and charming atmosphere. Located at 416 Main St., in Historic Downtown Canon City, the gallery is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call (719)345-4070 or visit: www.facebook.com/TheArtistsGallery/.