Lovely County Citizen: Features: Art Galleries (02/25/08)

Get up close and personal with art and artists at the Art Colony on North Main.

* The Art Colony -- A cure for "Been There, Done That." This wondrous hub of imagination is simmering and popping with ideas being born. A group of nine buildings house the studio-galleries of a varied assortment of off-beat, laughing, creative artists. Join us for our Art Fair every Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Situated in an idyllic outdoor Ozark setting in Mill Hollow at North Main Street, The Art Colony boasts sweeping iron architectural accents that dazzle the eye. This 'village' was conceived by sculptural artist J.D. Harris and his wife Kathy to provide studio space where artists come together to create a contagious, collective energy shared by everyone. Awaken your senses and refresh your spirit at 185 North Main Street next to Cafe Santa Fe. Free parking behind The Art Colony.

View the large art panels at the Artery on First Street and Eurekan Art on North Main.

[Click to enlarge]

* EureKan Art Studio & Shop -- features fine art and crafts by local and regional artists. More than 90 artists are represented in an eclectic mix of media -- oil, water and acrylic paintings, art glass, pottery, contemporary sculpture, photography and native wood boxes. 150 N. Main St.

* Gryphon's Roost Gallery -- hits contemporary art on many different levels, from vibrant and fun to subtle and profound. The gallery features atmospheric light boxes from Spain, pewter, pottery and jewelry created with semi-precious gems from all over the world, friendly personal service, French soaps, organic essential oils and floral waters, candles and inspirational notecards. 137 Spring St.

* Iris at the Basin Park -- offers art lovers an eclectic range of art and fine crafts, showcasing the fine works of many local, regional and national artists. Fine jewelry, hand-thrown pottery, art glass, contemporary metal sculpture. 8 Spring St.

* The Jewel Box -- is located in the heart of gallery row. This delightful little shop features 50 local and regional artisans. Artist and owner Nancy Wines showcases her Crystal Vision Jewelry line. Hand-painted porcelain, exotic masks, silk garments and more. 77 Spring St.

* Keels Creek Art Gallery -- Showing a diverse collection of nationally known and local artists that encompasses oils, acrylics, watercolors, fibers, wildlife art, pottery, glass and art jewelry. The Gallery is located at 3185 E. Van Buren (across from Trolley Stop #25 on Highway 62 on the east side of town). Ample parking and easy access.

* Serendipity at the Crescent -- Add a bit of the arts to your visit to the Crescent Hotel. While browsing through the collection of glass, pottery and wall art or picking out a favorite piece of handmade jewelry, be sure to let your eyes wander up to the collection of moons painted on the ceiling of the Bella Luna Room. 75 Prospect Ave.

* Wilson & Wilson Folk Art Co. -- features original paintings by folk artists Blakeley and Sylvia Wilson, hand-painted furnishings, limited edition prints and primitives. Blakeley's designs are now available in a full decorator line. Located in the Flat Iron building. 23 Spring St.

* Zarks -- is a contemporary fine craft and art gallery specializing in American art glass along with silver and gold jewelry, sculpture, and two dimensional works by more than 130 local, regional and national artists. Featuring a very fine cat Leo who greets you at the door. 67 Spring St.