Art is unique by nature.
Three artists working in different mediums equal very distinct visions.
Featured at the Blue Whole Gallery, 129 W. Washington St., this month are glass artist Liz Harper, metal sculptor Larry McCaffrey and painter Susan Gansert Shaw.
Each uses his or her creativity to interpret a subject, atmosphere or emotion. Channeling that energy through their medium of expertise, the results vary tremendously.
Seeing the world through a glass mask
Liz Harper expresses her creativity through fused glass.
"When I moved to Sequim from Colorado, I took a class in fused glass and was immediately hooked," Harper said, admitting that she’s "fascinated" by the process of fusing glass.
"Opening the kiln after the glass has been fired reveals a treasure," she said.
"The glass has transitioned from a raw-edged, cold-feeling piece to something soft, sensuous and vibrantly colored."
As an avid collector of masks from different countries, it was a natural transition for Harper to start making masks of glass. Vividly colored and whimsical by nature, the masks are eye-catching additions to any room.
Combining career and passion
A career in metal work and a lifelong love of art created the works McCaffrey is showing at the gallery. His art is contemporary by nature and is a combination of free flowing lines meant to be pleasing to the eye, a test of the imagination and relaxing to the spirit.
"I have presented my work in many shows on the Olympic Peninsula in the last four years with awards in most of them," McCaffrey said in a matter of fact way.
"Some of my work has been purchased by fellow artists (and) I think this is a great compliment."
Regardless of what he calls a piece or his inspiration behind creating it, McCaffrey encourages people to draw their own conclusions.
"Let your imagination tell you," he said.
"Eye of the beholder …. Enjoy!"
Inspired by the ordinary
Susan Gansert Shaw paints the world as she sees it. Each shape is filled with vigorous color abstractions that exude warmth and sincerity.
"I invite you into my paintings, whether they are pure watercolor, the excitement of pastel or a combination of both," Shaw said.
"I ask you to look at the intimacy and the sacredness of my work and its relationship to our world."
Shaw’s background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Syracuse University and countless workshops, awards and shows but it’s in everyday life she finds inspiration. A walk on the beach, a trip to the produce department or the solitude of her studio, every moment is a new opportunity for creativity.
For more information, go online to www.bluewholegallery.org or call 681-6033.
Mark it on the calendar
The Blue Whole Gallery holds its first Gala Art Auction from 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 525 N. Fifth Ave., Sequim.
The event will unveil new and original works by gallery artists.
Advance tickets are available for $20 at the gallery through Oct. 29. Space is limited, so early planning is encouraged.
The evening will include hors d’oeuvres, wine and punch, live entertainment, door prizes, and live and silent auctions. Guests should dress "Sequim chic."
