Edgewood Orchard Galleries Opens “Exhibit III”

“Triage” by Craig Blietz.

Edgewood Orchard Galleries will host a reception for Exhibit III July 15, 4 – 7 pm. Featured artists include painters Craig Blietz, Judi Ekholm and Susan Hale and jeweler Marcia McDonough. A reception to meet the featured artists will be at 5 pm in the courtyard, with wine and hors d’oeuvres served.

Craig Blietz and Laura Fiser, curator at The Paine Art Center in Oshkosh, will talk about Blietz’s show on July 16, 2 – 3 pm. The show Close to the Forest is inspired by The Paine’s permanent collection of Barbizon paintings.

Blietz has exhibited his work at Edgewood Orchard since 1998. He is influenced by the rural geography of this area, which helps him create the agrarian imagery for which he is best known.

“I continue to place farm animals in my work, as they are convincing emblems representing the place I live, work and dream. I find them to be remarkable non-verbal storytellers,” said Blietz.

Ekholm’s collection of oil paintings titled “Fresh Aire” were inspired by a road trip through eleven national parks and 21 states.

“The trip for this exhibit turned into one not about location or destination but rather one about a reawakening of my love of color. The oil paintings themselves are about the new color combinations I found on this journey. I hope by sharing these paintings the viewers can feel the joy I found on this trip,” said Ekholm.

Hale created a colorful and energetic collection of paintings for this exhibit that reflect her love of color and pattern.

McDonough will show her jewelry collection featuring unique interchangeable necklace strands and centerpieces. Inspired by the birth of her two sons, McDonough’s love of antique jewelry and modern design culminated in her creation of Mack & Banker, her own jewelry collection.

Exhibit III will be displayed through August 15. Edgewood Orchard Galleries is located at 4140 Peninsula Players Road, midway between Egg Harbor and Fish Creek. For more information call 920.868.3579 or visit edgewoodorchard.com.