The Art Guild at Fairfield Glade is showcasing the works of Jeani Miller and Elaine Harkins and will celebrate the artists during gallery opening night Friday, May 2, at Plateau Creative Arts Center.
The opening reception from 5-7 p.m. is a free event during which art lovers and the community are welcome to mingle with community artists while enjoying light refreshments, including wine and non-alcoholic beverages.
The works of Miller and Harkins will hang at Plateau Creative Arts Center with the works of graduating high school seniors.
Harkins said she discovered her love for art as a child and later expanded her skills through various classes in architectural drawing, watercolor and pastels.
She began designing needlepoint canvases in the 1970s, focusing on historical themes such as Henry VIII and his wives. After taking a 2019 Arts Center pastel techniques class — taught by Miller — Harkins immersed herself in pastels and watercolor.
She said she finds inspiration in her travels, capturing scenes from Morocco, Patmos, Paris, Grenada and Kenya. Her works range from watercolors and pastels to intricate needlepoint pieces, offering viewers a journey through the world’s vibrant cultures.
Miller said she remembers always being passionate about drawing. Using pastels, acrylics and pencils, she specializes in portraiture, bringing life to both human and animal subjects.
She notes the unique challenge of human portraits — depicting not only physical features but also how people perceive themselves.
In contrast, Miller said she finds comfort in painting animals.
“The animal doesn’t judge,” she said.
Miller said she begins each portrait with the eyes, which she calls “the window to the soul.” Once the eyes are placed, the rest of the features come to life organically, as if the subject helps guide the process.
For this exhibit, Miller will present several large-scale pieces, including her 4-by-5-foot paintings Cosmos in Chaos and Over the Hill, as well as her 2-by-8-foot Hole in One, created in honor of her husband’s first hole-in-one at Heatherhurst’s Crag golf course.
The High School Seniors Art Exhibit showcases the creative works of graduating students. Their artwork has been on display at the Art Circle Public Library, where community members have had the opportunity to vote for their favorites.
During Friday’s reception, special recognition and awards will be presented to the students. Families, teachers, friends, and community members are encouraged to attend and support these young artists as they celebrate their achievements.
Light refreshments will be served.
Plateau Creative Arts Center is dedicated to teaching, learning and inspiring by cultivating the artistic talent and abilities of people, making all art accessible in a welcoming and enriching environment.
The Arts Center, at 451 Lakeview Drive, is open to the public 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Call 931-707-7249 for more information.
The Plateau Creative Arts Center/Art Guild at Fairfield Glade is a not-for-profit 501c3 organization and an equal opportunity provider. Visit plateauarts.org or Plateau Creative Arts Center on Facebook and Instagram for more about other art classes, exhibits, membership, opportunities and events.