A WALK THROUGH THE CYPRESS, April 2025

Cypress Gallery Column, Guest Writer Christine Jeszeck

Have we got a treat for you this month! In our front room, featured artist Mitra Cline presents Cuckoo's Mixed Reality Nest from April 3 to April 27. I got a sneak peek as Mitra was setting up and I was immediately drawn in by the captivating colors, the creativity and the magical quality of her art.  

The title refers to the cuckoo's practice of laying their eggs in the nests of other species. This practice can be likened to artists needing each other for inspiration and collaboration. There will be an interactive aspect to Mitra's show in which visitors can enjoy a hands on experience with the art and even create their own art projects with the materials provided. Meet the artist and learn more at her public reception on Saturday, April 12 from 1 to 3 pm.

Diving deeper with Mitra, a lucky ten participants can sign up for a two-day mask making workshop by registering at lompocart.org

Don't miss this show!

Elsewhere in the Gallery, you will find a delightful array of subject matter in various mediums by our LVAA members. From animals to landscapes, abstracts to detailed realism, there is truly something for everyone. 

What you might notice first is a mixed media sculpture by Ellen Thermos entitled "April, the Junk Yard Dancer". The beauty of the piece lies in the grace and elegance of a dancer in a minimalist, yet expressive form. Other pedestal pieces include a fused glass creation by Kristine Kelly called "Hike to the Falls". This delicate work invites the viewer to meander along a path in a nature scene. 

On the walls you will find some familiar local landscapes including our own River Park. One of them, "River Park Reflections" by Vicki Andersen, is awash with her trademark vivid colors and bold brushstrokes. Don't forget our popular gift area, where you can find reasonably priced original art, including a delightful mixed media piece by VC DeMille depicting a California Quail. 

The Cypress Gallery is operated by the members of the Lompoc Valley Art Association, a 501c(3) non-profit organization, committed to expanding and supporting access and exposure to the arts in the Lompoc Valley. 119 E Cypress Ave, Lompoc. 805-737-1129 <lompocart.org> @cypressgallerylompoc

Photo Credit: Christine Jeszeck

Captions:

  1. Mitra Cline "Falling Star", Mixed Media on Canvas

  2. Mitra Cline "A Gift for You", Mixed Media on Canvas

  3. Mitra Cline "Masks" Mixed Media on Paper

  4. Ellen Thermos "April, the Junk Yard Dancer", Mixed Media

  5. Kristine Kelly "Hike to the Falls", Fused Glass

  6. Vicki Andersen "River Park Reflections", Acrylics on Canvas

  7. VC DeMille "Quail", Mixed Media on Canvas