The January exhibit at River Gallery showcases the paintings of James Conner and the mixed-media creations of Sammie Nicely.
Their show, “Past and Present,” goes on display Monday and continues through Jan. 31.
Conner grew up in rural Mississippi. Because his earliest memories are of drawing before he was old enough to go to school, he believes he was destined to be an artist. He studied advertising art while in high school and served as a graphic artist and illustrator for the U.S. Army during two tours in Vietnam and Europe.
Returning home, Conner earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Wayne State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Mississippi. He decided to settle permanently in the South and be a full-time artist. This decision brought a new focus and intensity to his work.
Conner’s paintings are colorful, and he strives to paint the passion of the moment. His time in Vietnam had a great impact on him.