First Friday Artist's Reception

The Artists’ Gallery of Canon City extends a heartfelt invitation to join us on First Friday, July 7th, from 5 to 8 p.m., for a celebration of the gallery’s 6-year anniversary! The continuing success of the gallery is only possible with the incredible support of the community, and we would like to express our gratitude. Featured Artists for July: Multi-media artist Diana Werthman’s daughter exclaims, “Life is a treasure hunt for my mom! She’s always been gifted with creating the most beautiful things out of seemingly nothing!”—which inspired Diana to name her art business, Something Out of Nothing. Her 3-dimensional artwork includes beautifully hand-crafted pine needle baskets, stunning embellished gourds, novel wall art masks, and lovely pine needle-trimmed shoulder bags. Most recently, Diana studied watercolor painting with well-known local art instructor, Ken McGowan. She instantly became “hooked”— rendering exquisite images of birds, flora and fauna. Additionally, Diana has taken on the challenge as window designer/dresser for the gallery, expertly creating, out of nothing, gorgeous window displays. She laughingly says, “And, I do windows!” 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 are “meant to challenge the imagination, question awareness, and invite reflection.” Sofia says, “I create images of ‘portals’ that transport one to this place of light and infinity. In art, I look for the ‘center’ which brings Life and Soul to all things, then connects and reflects it all back. To translate this infinite energy and beauty into my art, to find this invisible ‘center’, is my goal.” Sofia’s repertoire includes more traditional subjects, such as interiors and still lifes— detailed paintings which invite one to step into the image, and into a sense of place and wonder. Our “Legacy Corner” is extending the exhibit and sale of artwork by acclaimed artist, Lynda "Lyndi" Leech. Her paintings depict the American West, Native Americans, and rural life. The collection was donated to The Pueblo Art Guild by her estate after her death in 2010. Proceeds of the sale benefit the continuing work of the Guild in promoting the arts in Southern Colorado. Join us in celebration of these talented artists, “toast” to our anniversary, while enjoying live music performed by guitarist/singer, Tom Gudding. Complimentary refreshments are prepared and served by the artists—and be sure to enter our drawing to win an original work of art! Voted “The People’s Choice” Favorite Art Gallery in 2015 and 2016, The Artists' Gallery offers high-quality original art and gift items. Located at 416 Main St., 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/.