Reflections on This Memorable Experience

I was incredibly honored to be the Featured Artist at the 210 Gallery's Winter Exhibition, which opened on January 12, 2024, in the charming town of Sandstone, Minnesota. This exhibit felt like a pivotal moment in my artistic journey, and I’m beyond excited to share the experience with you.

The 210 Gallery is a beautiful space in a former church building, and operated by a dedicated nonprofit comprised of volunteers who are passionate about the Arts. It is known for supporting local and regional artists, and being chosen as the featured artist was a true privilege. The exhibit displayed almost 20 pieces of my work, ranging from original paintings to oil pastels. It was a humbling experience to see my creations displayed so prominently in such an inspiring environment.

 A Journey Through the Seasons in My Work

This exhibit showcased some of my favorite works, many of which reflect my deep connection to nature and the changing seasons. From the vibrant autumn hues to the quiet, serene landscapes of winter, each piece carries its own story, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the beauty found in nature’s transitions.

The Power of Oil Pastel

Oil pastels have always been one of my favorite mediums, and it was wonderful to have so many of my pastel works included in the exhibit, along with my paintings on canvas. Their rich, velvety texture allows me to bring a certain softness and depth to landscapes that other mediums can’t quite capture in the same way. I’ve always found oil pastels to be an ideal way to express the quiet beauty of nature, and many of the pieces displayed at 210 Gallery were a celebration of that.

Sharing the Joy

Following the Opening Night Reception on January 12, on Saturday, January 13, I taught an oil pastel workshop for a group of local artists and art appreciators who came to the opening.  Teaching others about oil pastel has always been very gratifying for me, especially when I can see  someone else sparkle with the pleasure of creating art.

A Heartfelt Thanks

Being part of the 210 Gallery’s Winter Exhibit is an honor I won’t soon forget. I’m incredibly grateful to the gallery and everyone who came to support the event, whether in person or in spirit. Seeing my work in such a beautiful space, surrounded by people who appreciate art, was deeply rewarding. It was also a chance to meet other artists and art lovers, and share conversations that have inspired new ideas and directions for my future work.  I especially want to thank Cheryl Burns Knudson, President of 210 Gallery and Art Center, for her gracious hospitality and hard work in bringing more arts opportunities to the people of Sandstone and the surrounding area.

What’s Next?

This exhibit has sparked a new wave of inspiration, and I’m already diving into my next projects. As I continue to explore the ever-changing beauty of the seasons and experiment with different techniques, I’m excited to see where this journey will lead.

You will find the gallery at 210 Commercial Avenue in Sandstone, Minnesota.

Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/osacmn.

If you happen to be in Sandstone, I encourage you to visit 210 Gallery and take a look at the incredible work on display—not just mine, but art from many talented artists who have poured their hearts into their creations. Thank you all for your support and encouragement, and I look forward to sharing more updates soon!