Nature inspires art at Baltimore Woods’ newest exhibition

By Karen Jean Smith

Baltimore Woods Art Gallery Coordinator

The artistic talents of members of Baltimore Woods Nature Center will be showcased in the next art exhibit at The Woods now through Dec. 23 in the Art Gallery of the Interpretive Center at 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus.

An opening reception for the show was held on Saturday, Nov. 5.

In addition, the exhibit may be seen when the Interpretive Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to 4 p.m.

There is no admission or parking fees, and all of the art work is for sale.

“Drawing on Talent,” an annual exhibit in its eighth year, is comprised of a variety of work by both professional artists and those who create primarily for personal pleasure.

“Artists have always looked to the natural world for inspiration, and it is intriguing to view their many interests and interpretations. This exhibit is an opportunity for artists to share their ideas with the community as well as appreciate the thoughts and efforts of others.” said gallery coordinator Karen Jean Smith.

Each artist in the exhibit has his/her own approach to subject matter.

Some work, such as Sue March’s photograph, entitled “Winter Beauty at Marcellus Park,” may have begun with a simple walk, looking for the right moment or subject, and even perhaps the right light.

Others might wish to record a special place in their memory or an appealing animal as in “Red Fox in Winter”, a pastel by Gail Norwood or “Two Loons,“ a watercolor by Jim Crawford. Others prefer the beauty of summer flowers as in Jill Newton’s and Judith Hand’s “Maybe Magnolias.”

Style and preferred media also come into play.  Deborah Laun’s contributions to the exhibit are three silver pendants with leaf designs. In addition there is work in ceramic, photography, watercolor and oil.

The variety of subject matter and point of view make this an exhibit with appeal for everyone.

Participating artists include: Maureen Barcza, Liz Beebe, Barbara Bratt , Susi Buschbacher Jim Crawford, Tom Dwyer, Betsy Eibert, Sally J. Fellows, Rocha Folger, Milton Franson, Judith Hand, John Kosecki, Deborah Laun , Christy Lemp, Jean Madden, Mary Mahle, Sue March, Jill Newton, Gail Norwood, Ruth Anne Reagan, Bob Ripley, Nancy Scanlon, Karen Jean Smith, Guy Swenson, Diane Thompson, Stephen F. Verescak, Jeanne Ulrich and Diana Whiting.