Stone mason/jeweler Janine Hegy and water media painter Ryoko Toyama showcase their recent work in the front windows of the Blue Whole Gallery, 129 W. Washington St., from Nov. 1-26.

An opening reception for the showcase is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 1, during the First Friday Art Walk.  

Hegy’s background in metal art includes design and production work in Bali, Mexico and Thailand, starting in 1989. She started her stonework art in 1994. She joined the Stone Foundation, Drystone Conservancy and StoneFest in 2003.

“My work is very active, dynamic; I really enjoy exploring the texture, color and feel of creating – even putting pieces together from different mediums," Hegy says. "Add this to my passion for tools, great mentors and a deepening skill level – and what is happening is that my work is growing in leaps and bounds."

Toyama was introduced to the world of visual arts in her childhood in Japan.

She says painting is the "active response" to her world, past and present.

"The creative process and its result move me; they are an engine of my life," Toyama says.

"Inspiration comes from visible objects or concepts, animated or lifeless. My creative process begins with the end in mind. However, my work often takes its own course, producing the unexpected in a magical transition. I was introduced to the fascinating world of visual arts in my childhood in Japan."

See bluewholegallery.com.