Tag Archive for: Art

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RedDoor Gallery Presents Award Winning Photographer Martinotti For First Friday

Camas, WA — RedDoor Gallery in Camas is honored to announce the addition of national award winning photographer John J. Martinotti at Camas First Friday on December 5th. John Martinotti is an internationally recognized fine art photographer and visual storyteller whose work has been selected over twenty times by 1x.com, a prestigious online gallery known for its strict curatorial standards and global community of fine art photographers. Martinotti was also named 2025 Photographer of the Year by Exposure One for his work in black and white.

The public is invited to celebrate the season with a traditional Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in downtown Camas on First Friday, December 5th. Meet Martinotti and enjoy complimentary refreshments at the gallery’s signature artist reception from 5-8 pm.

“We are deeply honored to represent Martinotti’s award winning photographic art,” said Liz Pike, local artist and gallery owner. “His work adds an important new dimension to our fine art exhibits at RedDoor Gallery.”

Martinotti’s work is showcased in a newly dedicated photographic studio on the mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Martinotti has developed a distinct artistic voice that resonates with collectors, curators, and creative audiences worldwide. Now based in Camas, his body of work at RedDoor Gallery includes superior canvas prints that deliver visual narratives. 

“I approach the world through a lens of curiosity,” said Martinotti. “Observation is central to my process, enabling me to uncover depth and beauty in both the everyday and the extraordinary. My aim is to frame the world in ways that prompt viewers to look closer, reflect deeper, and feel more profoundly.”

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy being surrounded by beautiful art, RedDoor Gallery’s Friday, December 5th reception from 5-8 pm promises an evening of inspiration and artistic connection!  This event is one of the most anticipated cultural gatherings in Clark County each month. Experience the best of local art in a vibrant, welcoming space with an opportunity to meet the 14 talented artists at RedDoor Gallery to gain an understanding of the inspiration behind the work.

Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-6 pm and Sundays from 10 am-2 pm and by appointment. Visit RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail LizPike7@icloud.com.

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RedDoor Gallery Invites the Public to see New Works at First Friday Artist Reception 

RedDoor Gallery in Camas is unveiling several new pieces of fine art by popular gallery artists Fongwei Liu and George Throop along with 11 other represented artists in time for Camas First Friday, November 7th. Be the first to see stunning new exhibits on both floors at RedDoor Gallery’s upscale First Friday reception from 5-8 pm. The public is invited to enjoy complimentary refreshments at this anticipated cultural gathering held on the first Friday of each month.

Fongwei Liu is a national award winning artist who joined RedDoor Gallery last Spring. 

“It’s a profound honor to represent the works of Fongwei Liu at RedDoor Gallery,” said Liz Pike, artist and owner of the gallery. “Fongwei has exhibited his original oils on canvas at leading U.S. galleries and his work is collected by residents across the  country, and in Canada, Australia and Hong Kong.” 

Pike noted the vibrant new pieces by top selling gallery artist George Throop. 

“George’s original acrylics on canvas are spectacular in every way,” said Pike. “His use of color with a variety of artistic tools fuses his many artistic styles that results in his own unmatched brand of impressionism.”

“My new paintings Empire at Night and Cruisin’ New York were both inspired in part by Edward Hopper work in Nighthawks,” said George Throop. “My works present the loneliness of the late-night city but also capture its energy in the shadows of people moving about and the lives of a different nature being lived.” 

Throop notes that taxis and an all-night coffee shop in Empire at Night and tall skyscrapers above speeding cars with brilliant neon glows in Cruisin’ New York capture both the romance and loneliness of a large city at night.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy being surrounded by beautiful art, RedDoor Gallery’s Friday, November 7th reception from 5-8 pm promises an evening of inspiration, connection, and an artistic celebration!Don’t miss this special opportunity to experience the best of local art in a vibrant, welcoming space.

Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-6 pm and Sundays from 10 am-2 pm.  Visit RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail LizPike7@icloud.com

RedDoor

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Copperworks Artist David Gerton Presents ‘War Bonnets’

Hello Art Lovers. Sure Happy It’s Thursday which is kinda like TGIF except different letters. 

Continuing with the Native American Art Series, here is the first WAR BONNETS piece by Copper Works artist David M. Gerton! 

War Bonnets are feathered headdresses traditionally worn by male leaders of the American Plains Indians Nations, who have earned a place of great respect in their tribes. In old times they were sometimes worn into battle, but primarily used for ceremonial occasions. They are seen as items of great spiritual and political importance, and should only be worn by those who have earned the right and honor through formal recognition by their people. There are no formal rules as to design, which can vary from tribe to tribe and contain different materials. In the 19 century many contained trade beads, Eagle feathers, animal bones and pelts, shells, turquoise and gemstone embellishments, and stroud cloth a material made from heavy wool used in blankets such as the Hudson Bay blankets that were traded with the Native Americans of North America. 

Prior to European contact, there were no horse cultures, but they flourished after the introduction of horses in the 17th century and through the late 19th century. This was when their historic nomadism became an armed resistance to domination by the governments and military forces of Canada and the United States.

This piece is a mixed media, Copper, alcohol ink, acrylic, and Crystal resin. It is a Diptych simply titled “WAR BONNET”. 19” high by 25” wide in an antique gold shadow box frame. On the left is Chief Redfeather, who may have lived on or around Red Feather, Lakes, and the Village of Red Feather Lakes, Colorado. On the right is “CHIEF”. CHIEF could be from any number of tribes on the plains but is most likely Lakota Sioux. 

THIS IS THE ARTIST’S FAVORITE WORK’.

FIND THE HEARTS!  There are two of them.

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Experience Clarkson’s Newest Alcohol Ink Paintings at RedDoor Gallery

RedDoor Gallery proudly presents the newest works of fine art by Matthew Clarkson at a special First Friday Art Walk reception on March 7th from 5 to 8 pm. The swanky artist reception features RedDoor Gallery’s complimentary refreshments and hospitality. Meet other represented gallery artists and discover what inspires their work.

“The world of pottery and painting exposes me to two-dimensional and three-dimensional worlds,” says artist Matthew Clarkson. “Pottery is a tactile experience that seeks balance between form and function. I’m constantly aware of weight, feel and aesthetics as I’m hand building with clay.”

He says it’s very satisfying to create something with his own hands that someone else then holds in their hands in a functional way.  

Gorgeous hand-built clay works are just the beginning of Clarkson’s successful artistic pursuits. He is also an experienced painter. “I currently use alcohol inks in my paintings because they open up a  vibrant world of color and movement. I look to the outdoors for inspiration in my work,” said Clarkson. “The alcohol inks add a spontaneous element to my work and constantly surprise me as I explore abstract landscapes and horizons.”

“Matthew Clarkson has remained one of our top selling artists at RedDoor Gallery since we opened last May,” said Liz Pike, owner of the gallery. “Our clients love his original art and we are honored to represent his work. This new collection in large format are among Matthew’s finest works,” added Pike. 

Also on tap for First Friday, March 7th, RedDoor Gallery presents Shirley Bishop’s “Winter of Birds” Glass Workshops. The public is invited to these casual, drop-in classes on Friday, March 7th from 4-8 pm and on Saturday, March 8th from 12-4 pm at RedDoor Gallery, 411 NE Dallas Street in downtown Camas. There’s no need to register; cost is just $25 per glass bird. Shirley will skillfully guide students of all ages as they design their own fused glass birds in about twenty minutes or less! Choose from three glass designs including robins, hummingbirds or cardinals.

“These popular drop-in classes are super fun and really easy,” said Shirley Bishop.  

Since opening last May, RedDoor Gallery quickly became the “art hub of Camas.” RedDoor Gallery invites visitors to experience the joy and transformative power of art inside its red door! The art gallery is located in the historic building at 411 NE  Dallas Street in downtown Camas, has featured new work each month by artists Sarah Bang, Shirley Bishop, Kimmie Burmaster, Matthew Clarkson, Wendy Davis, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, Gail Harrington, Cheryl Mathieson, Liz Pike, Tamra Sheline, Catherine Snyder and George Throop.  

The gallery’s mission is to provide a vibrant art space open to the public and foster a creative art-making community. In addition to a gallery of fine art, quality art instructional classes are offered in  RDG’s professionally equipped studio. Visit RDG on the web at RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail pikeadvertising@comcast.net.

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See Dazzling Fused Glass Art by Shirley Bishop Inside RedDoor Gallery 

Brilliant colors are bursting forth inside RedDoor Gallery (RDG) at a special First Friday Art Walk reception which spotlights new fused glass works by Shirley Bishop along with her signature collection of Valentine themed art. The swanky artist reception happens on Friday, February 7th from 5-8 pm and features RedDoor Gallery’s complimentary refreshments and hospitality. Meet other represented gallery artists and discover what inspires their work.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, RedDoor Gallery presents Shirley Bishop’s Heart of Glass Workshops. The public is invited to these drop in classes on Friday, February 7th from 4-8 pm and on Saturday, February 8th from 12-4pm. There’s no need to register; cost is just $20 per person. Shirley will skillfully guide students of all ages as they design their own fused glass hearts in about twenty minutes or less! “These popular drop-in classes are super fun and really easy,” said Bishop.  

Shirley Bishop discovered the art of glass fusing in 2013. Since then she has established herself as a premier fused glass artist and fused glass art instructor in the region. Her “Studio 13 Glass Art” studio is nestled within the serene landscape of rural Washougal. It’s more than just a studio; it’s a sanctuary where creativity thrives. 

“I love sharing my passion for fused glass with both art patrons and students,” said Bishop. In addition to teaching others in the art of fusing glass, she also books private and group sessions at her Washougal studio.

For more information about her fused glass instructional programs, or to book a class, visit www.studio13glassart.com. 

Since opening last May, RedDoor Gallery quickly became the “art hub of Camas.” RedDoor Gallery nvites visitors to experience the joy and transformative power of art inside its red door! The art gallery is located in the historic building at 411 NE Dallas Street in downtown Camas, has featured new work each month by artists Sarah Bang, Shirley Bishop, Kimmie Burmaster, Matthew Clarkson, Wendy Davis, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, Gail Harrington, Cheryl Mathieson, Liz Pike, Tamra Sheline, Catherine Snyder and George Throop.  

The gallery’s mission is to provide a vibrant art space open to the public and foster a creative art-making community. In addition to a gallery of fine art, quality art instructional classes are offered in RDG’s professionally equipped studio. Visit RDG on the web at RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail pikeadvertising@comcast.net.

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Explore Some Unique Gift Ideas for This Holiday Season

Trying to come up with unique gifts for everyone on your list this holiday season is an exercise in creativity. While you could always give another mug or blanket, the truth is that the people you care about deserve something special. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend hours dreaming up gift ideas when you can use this list to find the perfect present that anyone will love.

Choose a Special Candle

Scented candles are always a safe option for giving to people you don’t know well. Yet, you can also turn this gift into one that shows you know them personally. You can find candles that melt to reveal a birthstone, ones that look like a bowl of your friend’s favorite cereal and even ones that smell like specific states.

Create Personalized Photo Socks

Socks might be a gift that is jokingly left up to the grandparents to give, but not when you use personalization to make them unique. You can have socks custom printed with the image of someone’s pet, favorite food or even their own face. Having a fun pair of socks that represents their personality is a great idea for anyone who has a sense of humor.

Give Them Better Beauty Sleep With a Silk Pillow

Many people think about buying a silk pillow, but they never get around to buying themselves this luxury. A silk pillow has known benefits for rest and beauty such as reducing hair breakage. This gift is a great option for young adults and teens who are obsessed with their hair health, but it also works for people who are any age.

Pair a Pillow With Silk Pajamas

If you prefer to give a bigger gift than a pillowcase, then you can follow it up with a pair of silk pajamas. Clothing made from silk has a luxurious feel, and this is the perfect gift to give to your houseguests if you’re hosting this season. To increase the appeal, you can also have a set monogrammed to create a truly personalized present.

Honor Someone With a Challenge Coin

The military has used challenge coins for more than a century to reward hard work and inspire a sense of pride and belonging. Today, people are also using challenge coins to enhance friendships, work partnerships and other special relationships. If you’re trying to come up with a gift for a group, then handing out challenge coins is a fun way to highlight your relationships with each other. The coins can be displayed, but they are also fun to carry to challenge everyone who has one to produce it on command.

Hand Out Multitools

If you dislike the idea of giving a gift that just gathers dust, then a multitool is certain to get used. You can find card-style multitools that fit in a person’s wallet, or you might opt for a foldable tool that is easy to carry in a pocket. Either way, this is a great gift to give to a group of people who are just starting out such as your adult grandkids.

Encourage Screen-Free Time With a Neck Reading Light

Knowing which book to give the avid reader in your life can be challenging, especially when they seem to have read through an entire series. However, you can still give a gift that taps into their hobby without doubling up on something they’ve already read. A neck reading light also encourages your loved one to get off their phone and read a paperback, which can promote more restful sleep.

Help Them Hit Goals With a Scratch-Off Poster

Scratch-off posters come in a variety of styles that you can pick from based on your loved one’s hobbies. Watch as they get excited to scratch off the movies they watch over the upcoming year. Or, your loved one might want to scratch off all of the national parks they visit. This gift gives them something to work on over the new year, which is great for people who enjoy making resolutions.

The best gifts are ones that show you put genuine thought and care into their selection. Selecting a gift that shows something special about the recipient is the ideal way to make them smile. Once you’ve found and wrapped the perfect present, you can sail through the holidays with excitement as you look forward to seeing their face during your upcoming gift exchange.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Challenge Coins

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New Military Art Exhibition at Columbia Gorge Museum Opens Nov. 23

The Columbia Gorge Museum is excited to unveil its new art exhibition, WALKING IN MY SHOES: A Perspective on Military Service by Charles Burt, opening on November 23, 2024. This exhibition will allow its viewers to experience a unique perspective on the military and the lives of its members. 

After 20 years of active-duty service Burt retired from the Army but had a tough time adjusting to civilian culture. Seeking a way to connect with other disciplined and dedicated people, he met artists who shared his work ethic and a strong drive to succeed.

From this spark, he started taking art courses at the local community college and completed five years of intensive fine art atelier training at Gage Academy of Art in Seattle. During his last two years of atelier training, Burt began a series of paintings titled Seven Army Values. These are invitations for civilians to find new ways of thinking about military service.

After retiring from the Army, he developed a tremor in his dominant hand and was later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Painting fine art pieces while battling a tremor is another challenge that he faces head-on.

He hopes his art and his life story inspire other veterans to work toward their own goals even after they leave the supportive structures of the military.

A special public opening will be at 2 pm on November 23 where Charles Burt will be in attendance. For more details on the exhibition and to RSVP, please visit the Columbia Gorge Museum’s website.

The Columbia Gorge Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in Stevenson, WA. It is known for collections honoring the tribal communities from the region, past and present, the largest rosary collection, as well as art and artifacts from industry and families throughout our history. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Every first Saturday of the month is free for Skamania County residents.

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Journey Theater Presents ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’ Beginning Nov. 23

Vancouver, WA — The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Journey Theater is thrilled to provide family-friendly musical theater, featuring a cast of talented, local youth, to the greater community! Tickets are on sale now at journeytheater.org or by calling 360.750.8550. Adult tickets are $19. Youth and senior tickets are $17. Tickets are be $2 more at the door.

Performances at Fort Vancouver High School

  • Saturday, November 23rd at 2 pm and @ 7 pm
  • Sunday, November 24th at 2 pm
  • Saturday, November 30th at 2 pm and 7 pm
  • Sunday, December 1st at 2 pm

Journey is a Jesus-centered theater arts program that exists to grow youth and their families in character and purpose to be difference-makers in their world.

Serving Clark County since 2002, Journey is a 501(c)3 nonprofit educational organization, with offices located at 1400 NE 136th Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver WA, 98684. Contact at 360.750.8550 or www.journeytheater.org 

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Washougal Studio Artists to Host Holiday Art Market Tour Nov. 16

Washougal Studio Artists proudly presents their 4th Annual Holiday Art Market Tour, Saturday and Sunday, November 16th and 17th, 10 am-4 pm.

This is your opportunity to visit 13 artists’ studios and enjoy the work of 25 talented local artists. Come learn what inspires the artists and learn how they have developed their processes. Ask questions and experience the creative studio environment where art is being made. The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a biannual event that draws visitors from all over the region, and we are excited to share it with you. Explore an amazing array of works in fused glass, textiles, bronze sculpture, painting, jewelry, mixed media, collage, ceramics and photography.

Participating artists include the following:

  • Studio #1: Trish Johnson (studio owner), watercolors; Keith Russell, painting and drawing.
  • Studio #2: Sandy Moore (studio owner), mixed media fabric collage and home decor; Sharon Buckmaster, mixed media wearable art; Jeanine Clark, painting, drawing, wearables.
  • Studio #3: Tamara Dinius (studio owner), mixed media; Phyllis Carter, fused glass; Toni McCarthy, beaded and metal jewelry.
  • Studio #4: Liz Nye, mixed media, photography, textiles.
  • Studio #5: Regina Westmoreland, mixed media.
  • Studio #6: Debbie Nagano, mixed media.
  • Studio #7: Judi Clark, painting, drawing.
  • Studio #8: Ellen Nordgren, mixed media.
  • Studio #9: Shirley Bishop (studio owner), fused glass & home décor; Kathy Marty; hand-woven rugs and home décor; Marina Pearson, acrylic painting and drawing; John Relyea, woodworking.
  • Studio #10: /Susan Fronckowiak (studio owner), painting, photography; Anna Norris, painting, ceramics; Blythe Ayne, photography.
  • Studio#11: LesleyAnne Ezelle (studio owner), ceramics and alpaca fiber;
  • Studio #12: David Van Zandt (studio owner) bronze sculpture & acrylic painting; Charlene Hale, glass.
  • Studio #13: Mica Wilson (studio owner), painting, drawing; Elaine Lim, painting, drawing.
  • The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a wonderful way to spend the day. There is a great joy in experiencing art firsthand, buying local and giving your special friends and loved ones original pieces of art. Here is your chance to meet the makers, to

learn about their processes, and to find truly special holiday or birthday gifts. Or maybe you’ll be inspired to sign up for a class. 

Many of these artists also offer classes from their studios. For further information: Shirley Bishop 360-991-3081 —

– https://www.washougalstudioartists.org/

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RedDoor Gallery Presents Works by Elaine Lim for Emerging Artist Exhibition 

RedDoor Gallery (RDG) is pleased to present works by Elaine Lim in a special Emerging Artist Exhibition that runs October 11th through December 11th. The public is invited to an artist reception honoring Lim on Friday, October 18th from 5 pm to 7 pm. 

”The Emerging Artist Exhibition is a brand new feature at RedDoor Gallery,” said Liz Pike, one of the partners inside the red door. “As an art hub in Camas, it’s important for RedDoor Gallery to lift up new, talented artists who are eager to launch their creative career. We are delighted to feature Elaine Lim in our inaugural exhibition for emerging artists.”

Elaine Lim, an emerging watercolor artist based in the Pacific Northwest, has carved out a niche for herself by capturing the beauty of the coast. Elaine’s artistic journey started at a young age, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of nature. Over the years, she explored various mediums, but it was watercolor that truly stole her heart. The unpredictability and spontaneity of watercolor painting challenged her to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the imperfections. Lim has taken several watercolor classes taught by Tamra Sheline, a partner and art instructor at RedDoor Gallery. 

“I have learned so much from Tamra. She is an inspiration to me,” says Lim. “My watercolor paintings are an ode to the ocean, a celebration of its power and ever-changing beauty.” 

Through her art, she strives to capture not only the visual splendor of the coast, but also its intangible qualities – the sense of curiosity it evokes and the power it embodies. 

“I want my paintings to transport viewers to the edge of the sea, and to feel the cool salty spray of the ocean on their skin,” she added.

Three of Lim’s works were accepted by a jury to enter the 2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, showcasing her talent to a broader audience. Through her art, Lim strives to create pieces that resonate on a personal level with her viewers, believing that art is not just a visual experience but an emotional one. Her paintings offer a calming, immersive experience, inviting viewers to find beauty in the simplest of things. She aims to provide a sanctuary in her art collectors’ private spaces. Lim is also donating a portion of proceeds from her sold pieces inside RedDoor Gallery to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to support ocean conservation efforts, reflecting her commitment to safeguard the beauty of oceans for future generations.

Every 60 days, a new emerging artist will be featured in the newly remodeled mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery. Since opening last May, the art gallery, located in the historic building at 411 NE Dallas Street in downtown Camas, has featured new work each month by artists Sarah Bang, Shirley Bishop, Matthew Clarkson, Heidi Curley, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, David Gerton, Cheryl Mathieson, Liz Pike and Tamra Sheline. The recent remodel in RedDoor’s new Mezzanine Gallery exhibition space allowed the gallery to jury in five new artists. The gallery will honor artists Kimmie Burmaster, Wendy Davis, Gail Harrington, Catherine Snyder and George Throop at a special artists’s reception on First Friday, November 1st from 5-8 pm.

As the art hub of Camas, RDG invites visitors to experience the joy and transformative power of art inside its red door. The gallery’s mission is to provide a vibrant art space open to the public and foster a creative art-making community. In addition to a gallery of fine art, quality art instructional classes are offered in RDG’s professionally equipped studio. Visit RDG on the web at RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail RedDoorGalleryCamas@gmail.com

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