OUT OF THE BOX to Showcase Abstract Artists at Creative Gateways Gallery

Part of the power of abstract art is its openness. It doesn't declare what it is about, instead it invites the viewer to open their mind, enter the artwork and see where it takes them. It is an unabashed celebration of imagination.

In June Creative Gateways Gallery in West Sedona celebrates the power of creativity with Out of the Box. This exhibit focuses on the abstract work of artists Michael Colpitts, Terry Israelson, Pilisa Rainbow Lady and Marika Israelson. The public is invited to meet these and other local artists at the opening reception for Out of the Box on Friday June 2nd from 5-8pm.

Terry Israelson has been a working artist for over 35 years. He is renowned for the intricacy of his woodwork and fine art furniture, creating custom pieces for clients. Now working in glass, his artwork continues to reflect his unique view of the world. He is often stimulated by small details around him that he then translates visually connecting his initial inspiration in an unexpecTEd Manner to a larger abstract piece. His pieces have a wild organic feel and are labeled with mysterious names, removing the possibility of a preconceived notion regarding the meaning of the piece that is a derivative of the title. From his perspective, this way his collectors can allow their imagination to flow into the piece unfettered. From stunning bowls and wall pieces to light sconces and custom architectural elements there is an intriguing sense of spontaneity in his work.

Michael Colpitts could easily be called an explorer of all things. A devout meditator, he has traveled the globe studying both the external and internal world. His ongoing journey of discovery is translated into his work both as a mixed media painter and a ceramic sculptor. Though he is working in vastly different mediums, viewers can feel his unparalleled voice in each piece beckoning the viewer within.

His abstract mixed media paintings vibrate with energy, and contain a sense of richness and depth that is created by his use of materials. As he works, the painting's dimensions are created through gesso, fabrics and papers, light charcoal, modeling paste, grog, sand, thick oil colors, acrylic washes and transparent oil washes to create a lovely, luminescent quality.

Pilisa Rainbow Lady brings the myriad of her experiences to her ever-evolving work. Born deeply sensitive to the different layers of reality she experienced visions as a child and "just knew things." After a successful career in technology, she founded and was the Board Chair of Ringing Rocks Foundation where she worked with indigenous healers around the world for fifteen years. Here she was able to delve deeply into many of her childhood experiences and now she translates her visions into luminous creations that echo both her life experience the ever-changing nature of glass itself. She has worked across multiple mediums including fiber art, painting, and ceramics but found her passion when she began working in in fused glass.

Marika Israelson was immersed in the visual language of value and contrast during her formative years; both of her parents are artists. Her work vibrates with an inner vitality and a profound sense of exploration. You can feel her eagerness to expand the boundaries of what is possible as you gaze upon her pieces. She loves the experimental nature of glass, how it feels like a dance between her initial inspiration and the innate nature of the materials, the resulting pieces take on a unique life of their own.

There will be an opening reception for Out of the Box on Friday June 2nd from 5-8pm during 1st Friday in the Galleries. Guests are invited to enjoy wine, organic treats and other surprises as they mingle with the artists.

Creative Gateways is an artist's collective and public gallery space in Sedona, Arizona. Its working studios are open to all and visitors are welcome to drop in at any time to meet the artists and engage with the creative process. The gallery space showcases the innovative and lively work that results from this very special environment, for visitors to discover, explore, and take home with them. Creative Gateways is located at 45 Birch Blvd in Sedona. For more information about Creative Gateways, visit www.CreativeGateways.com or call 928-862-4440.

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