First things first
Make art a priority at Toledo’s First Weekend
As fall sets in with chilly mornings and falling leaves, Toledo’s arts community will open its doors to the public during First Weekend this Saturday, Oct. 3, and Sunday, Oct. 4.
This month’s celebration will feature the work of award-winning local artist Ivan Kelly, known for his sweeping coastal landscapes, detailed maritime works and big game scenes. Growing up in Northern Ireland, Kelly developed a love for the natural world and conveying it through artistic expression. After emigrating to the United States in 1972, he began painting his works en plein air, finding that immersing himself in the environment allowed him to capture the moods and subtleties of a scene within the work.
“I love the qualities and effects of light on my chosen subjects,” he said, “be it a meadow, an ocean beach, a Teton peak or on the coat of an elk in the early dawn.”
This subtlety in shifting light and depiction of raw natural beauty can be seen in his featured painting "Incoming Dawn, Seal Rock," a striking landscape featuring the relentless waves against an unyielding, jagged coastline.
Kelly’s work can be viewed at Ivan Kelly Studio-Gallery, located at 207 E Graham Street, open from noon to 4 pm during First Weekend. For more information, go to ivankelly.com
The Yaquina River Museum of Art will be hosting a print sale for those looking to get an early start on gift shopping. These giclee prints allow art lovers to own museum-quality reproductions at reasonable prices. Of special interest are the limited-edition Yaquina Traveling Exhibit prints, featuring the work of late regional artist and museum founder Michael Gibbons. Check out the print sale and see more art at the Vicarage House, located at 140 NE Alder Street from noon to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. For more information on the Yaquina River Museum of Art, go to yaquinarivermuseumofart.com
Gibbons’ work will also be on display at the museum, including "A Pumpkin Patch.” Painted onsite in Connecticut, this fairytale scene captures the artist's imagination in autumn splendor. For more information on Michael Gibbons, go to michaelgibbons.net.
The Posh & Polished salon will feature the assemblage art of Linda Oleman. Bringing together vintage finds, forgotten fabrics and found objects, Oleman arranges new pieces designed to decorate homes. Posh & Polished Salon is located at 207 E. Hwy. 20.
On Main Street, Bruster’s Whimsy will display handcrafted dioramas created by Barry Bruster. Bruster’s Whimsy is located at 139 S. Main Street, open from 1 to 5 pm on Saturday and from 1 to 7 pm on Sunday.