LEWIS:

As I sit down to write this column, I also am in the process of accepting artwork for not one, but two exhibits at the Carriage Factory Art Gallery.

Our regular July-August exhibit opened Wednesday.

We also have a special exhibit by the Kansas Academy of Oil Painters that opened Wednesday.

The regular July-August exhibit, Celebrating Kansas Heritage, features the work of nationally recognized watercolorist, Paul Jackson, from Columbia, Mo.; Wichita artist Sue Vautravers; and Newton photographer Jim Wimmer.

Many of our member artists also have contributed works to this exhibit.

Paul Jackson is best known for his work in painting glass and architecture subjects, but he also has participated in many National Art for the Parks competitions. The selection of his watercolor paintings features a pre-9-11 cityscape of Manhattan, a stunning still life featuring glass and landscapes that are full of color.

Sue Vautravers’ paintings also are full of life and color, though she uses oil and other mediums to capture the essence of her subjects. Her oils are especially bright and cheerful and include a pair of very classical looking still life paintings.

Jim Wimmer’s photography focuses on that trademark of the plains, the windmill, but also includes some interesting and unusual views of other icons of the Kansas plains.

The exhibit also includes the works of nine members of the Newton Fine Arts Associations and range from two exquisite framed knit pieces to oils, watercolors and other media.

I also will have a new painting on short-term display as part of this exhibit.

The regular exhibit runs from through Aug. 22.

The July Special Exhibit features the works of artists of the Kansas Academy of Oil Painters. Nearly 40 members of this state-wide group have provided an excellent selection of oil paintings of all sizes and styles for your enjoyment. The exhibit runs through July 31 and is on our upper levels.

The Fifth Annual Celebration of Sound and Color on Saturday will be an exciting, fun-filled celebration of the colors and sounds of artistry of all types.

The J. J. Krehbiel Park will be the focus of attention with an all-day exhibit of historic American flags (weather permitting) and the evening concert by the Senseney Music Wichita Community Band at 7 p.m.

In between, there will be a demonstration of drawing and watercolor colored pencil by local artist Linda David, the artists’ reception for the new exhibits and, of course, door prizes provided by local businesses and individuals.

Newton artist Mary Johnson will conduct a watercolor collage class at the gallery. Mary’s class is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 31. You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy this class, so come prepared to have fun!

You are invited to become a member of the Newton Fine Arts Association.

As always, I invite you to stop by the gallery during regular business hours to view the exhibits. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Feel free to contact me at 284-2749 or by e-mail at director@carriagefactoryartgallery.com.

Carrie L. Lewis is director of the Carriage Factory Gallery and an oil painter.