2012 Welcome to Our Featured Artist Exhibit
January and February
Eileen Landrus ~ Watercolor Painting
Artist Biography
Eileen has been interested in art as long as she can remember. Over the years she has taken instruction in both oil and pastel, but did not seriously become involved until she moved from Reno, Nevada to Florence in 1989.
In Florence she was introduced to watercolor by Jean Eliot. She started taking classes and workshops whenever possible. She has been fortunate to have attended many workshops given by accomplished artists.
Eileen tells us, “Those who have had the most influence on my work and have been both instructor and friends are Susan Weathers and Katheryn Davis.”
Featured in March and April
Laura and Jerry Wallen
~ LJ Creations in Glass ~
Several years ago, after having worked with, and teaching, stained glass, my husband and I decided to learn the art of glass fusing. We enrolled in a short beginner's fusing class, bought several books and a small kiln. We then started reading and practicing our newly found art form.
During the early days we made a few costly mistakes, some of which could have been avoided by exercising a little patience. We quickly learned that extremely hot glass and cool air are not compatible.
From our early beginnings in fusing glass, we have since learned to exercise patience. We also incorporate several different techniques into our projects, such as sandblasting, multiple firings, the use of fiber paper and various specialty glasses. The various colors and textures in our projects (which we believe are very unique) are created solely with glass, and do not involve the use of any paints or enamels.
We have since moved to Florence, where we now work on our art projects in our home studio. Our aim is to create objects of beauty that we hope others will enjoy as much as we enjoy creating them. Although we are normally in agreement as to colors and pattern designs, we sometimes differ in opinion. On those occasions we find our differences seem to compliment the overall result. My husband and I strive for originality and realism in our projects and we originate all our own designs. Although our art may be functional, its main purpose is to be visually enjoyed.
- Lura & Jerry Wallen