New Braunfels is rich with hidden treasures. Among them is the Gallery at 764 West. Owned and operated by its founders, artists Scott Jarisch and Jean Longone, 764 West began as a custom framing shop in 1998. From there, artistic influence took hold.
“We began meeting other artists through the shop, the New Braunfels Art League, the Canyon Lake Art Guild, and other Art Groups. Several years ago, we set up a small gallery in the shop to show our work, and people started to ask if we ever did shows for other artists. Three years ago we gave it a try, and have done spring and fall shows every year since,” Longone said.
Artist Rita Kirkman is featured in the upcoming show “Contemporary Realism in Pastel,” opening tonight with a reception.
Recognized internationally, Kirkman has been featured in multiple publications including The Artist Magazine, American Artist, The Pastel Journal, International Artist and Southwest Art.
“Rita is a very accomplished artist, as evidenced by her long list of major and national awards,” Longone said. “Her excellent use of color and light makes her work seem to almost glow. Her masterful technique in handling pastels, her sensitivity to her subject matter, and use of space give her work a distinctive style, that is truly her own.”
The show features Kirkman’s landscapes, figurative work and her Bovine Series. There is something very gentle about her art, from the transition in color and soft palette, to the sleepy longhorn’s eyes, to the mid-afternoon kiss between two lazy cows relaxing in a golden field.
“It illuminates parallels between animal instinct, and human sentiment,” Longone said. “Rita’s work appeals to a wide range of tastes, so I think anyone who comes to see her pastels will find something that touches them.”
Tonight is the artist reception for Kirkman at the gallery from 5 to 8 p.m. The community is invited to join in welcoming Kirkman’s art to the gallery.
“We hope our patrons will leave with a smile, more appreciation for original art, and a desire to go to more shows and galleries,” Longone said. “There are some very talented people in our area, and their work should definitely be seen by as many people as possible.”
The show runs through Nov. 30 at The Gallery at 764 West located at 764 W. San Antonio St.
For information, visit www.764west.com or call (830) 629-0998.
