'Holiday BazART'

By Ann Nichols

annsnichols@aol.com

Gearing up for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, In-Town Gallery's member artists have created new work for "Holiday BazART."

Opening on Nov. 6, the show will present original paintings, woodwork, jewelry, fiber, glass and clay items. The event will also introduce three artists new to the gallery.

Doug Barker creates objects from North American woods.

"Cherry, walnut, maple and some ash are my favorites," he said.

His portion of the exhibit will be composed of a 5-foot-tall armoire, a contemporary wall mirror and several tables. One of the tables has a simulated river running through it with inlaid river stones. His goal is to "take the ordinary and make it extraordinary."

Lori Ryan's realistic oil paintings explore light, color and the natural world.

"Some are examinations of relatively small things like flowers and fruit," she said.

She paints these larger than life so that the viewer will see just how perfect nature is. However, her scenes of panoramic landscapes are usually small-scale.

"Making small that which is large, I retain the feeling of awe I felt when I as there," said Ms. Ryan.

Lowell Axley combines the sophisticated with the rustic in his turned-wood objects. For example, he preserved the natural edge on a finely finished and polished walnut bowl which he titled "Natural Edge." His intention is to enhance the inherent beauty of the existing wood while honoring its flaws and elegance.

"Holiday BazART" will continue through Nov. 30. An opening reception will be held Nov. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.

In-Town Gallery, 26 Frazier Ave., is open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Call 267-9214.