The Gallery at 764 West Hosts Rita Kirkman – Original Pastels Art Show “Contemporary Realism in Pastel”

New Braunfels, TX, September 24, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Rita Kirkman’s “Contemporary Realism in Pastel” exhibition includes original pastel paintings and limited edition prints. Kirkman’s lively pastel paintings have gathered international recognition and awards. Her work has been published in The Artist Magazine, American Artist, The Pastel Journal, International Artist, and Southwest Art. She is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America and a recipient of the Master Circle Award from the International Association of Pastel Societies as well as a member of the Coppini Academy of fine Art, New Braunfels Art League, Austin Pastel Society, and the Texas Pastel Society. In addition to The Gallery at 764 West, Kirkman is also represented locally by River’s Edge Gallery, Cactus Jacks, and J.Space Gallery. She holds an Associate of Arts from Lourdes College in Ohio and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Dayton in Ohio.

Rita Kirkman was born an artist. She was drawing portraits of friends and family members by the age of 11, and had her first paid portrait commission at 17. The vibrant colors and detailed strokes that make up her paintings bring to the viewer an unexpected emotional response. Portraiture, wildlife and landscapes all benefit from Kirkman’s skillful eye. “Life is too full to only paint one thing. Everything I see gives me ideas!” laughs Kirkman. Her exhibit at 764 West features new landscapes and figurative work as well as her current bovine series, which illuminates parallels between animal instinct and human sentiment.

About 764 West L.L.C.
The Gallery at 764 West showcases original artwork in a wide assortment of media and styles including photography, oils, acrylics, watercolor, sculpture, pottery, digital arts, and mixed media. Artists from as far away as Denmark have shown at The Gallery as well as talented up and coming local and regional artists. Known as the little gallery with exciting art, The Gallery at 764 West hosts a contemporary art show and sale twice a year in the spring and fall. In addition to The Gallery, 764 West also offers custom picture framing, artist supplies, frame and photo restoration, digital imaging and art lessons. Artists Scott Jarisch and Jean Longone opened 764 West L.L.C. in 1998 and have been active in seeking to expand the horizons of the New Braunfels community by bringing awareness to the arts and showcasing the many talented artists located in New Braunfels and elsewhere.

In the spring of 2010 Robin Moratti’s exciting acrylic and oil pastel paintings will be on display. Robin is recognized for works that explore the relationships and insights that are within us all. During the fall of 2010, Linda Novell will exhibit her award winning decorative, artistic and functional pottery. A wide variety of artwork in all media and styles by artists Scott Jarish and Jean Longone are on rotating exhibit at The Gallery the rest of the year.

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