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ART HAPPENS CULTURE

The Fabled Landscape – Marla Baggetta at RiverSea

Marla BaggettaIF YOU’VE EVER FOUND yourself gazing down a path, not knowing where it might lead, but choosing to follow anyway, the paintings and pastel landscapes of Marla Baggetta are sure to entrance. The renowned Oregon artist brings a new collection of works on paper as well as canvas to RiverSea Gallery in a series titled, The Fabled Landscape. The exhibition will open with a preview party and artist’s talk Friday, June 10th 6 –8 pm, followed by the Astoria Second Saturday Artwalk reception, June 11th 5 – 8 pm. Baggetta will be available at both events to discuss her artwork, techniques and the vision that binds it all together. The Fabled Landscape will remain on exhibit through June 28th.

In large format canvases and pastel works on paper, Baggetta invites the viewer to explore her conception of landscape. Known as a master of light and color, Baggetta carefully follows the rules of classic techniques in use of medium until she finds the perfect point of departure. Her work exhibits depth in training, an understanding of the importance of under painting and tonality; composition is never left to chance, nor is the balance of abstraction to reality.  These combined elements are what make Baggetta’s work move beyond traditional landscape painting…it’s her own blend of magic, based on intuition, freedom to explore, and supported by an assured knowledge of classical skills.

Baggetta is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America and the Pastel Society of Oregon, and has won numerous awards for her highly sought-after works. She has been featured in Pastel Journal, the premiere magazine for pastel artists. She is also the author of Step by Step Pastel, published by Walter Foster Publishing, and teaches workshops throughout the northwest, including at Art Center College of Design, Pacific Northwest College of Art, Creative Arts Community-Menucha, Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, and for West Linn/Wilsonville Community Education.

RiverSea Gallery is open daily at 1160 Commercial Street, in the heart of historic downtown Astoria, Open: Mon through Thur, 11 to 5:30; Fri and Sat, 11 to 7pm; and 11 to 4 each Sunday. 503-325-1270, or visit the website at www.RiverSeaGallery.com.