VISUAL ARTS + MUSEUMS

Archway Gallery presents Andiamo! , featuring the watercolors of Shirl Riccetti and the fiber 3-D structures of guest artist Peggy Sexton. The exhibition will be on view January 7, 2012 through February 2, 2012. The artists will be on hand to visit with guests during the exhibition opening reception on Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 5 – 8 pm at the gallery. Both artists will give introductory remarks and insights at 6:30pm.

Andiamo! …The Italian phrase which means "Let’s Go!” and speaks to the artists about the joy, wonder and humor of life’s special moments that is reflected in their work.

Riccetti’s lighthearted paintings tap into her travels across Europe and reflect the color and culture of everyday scenes in these locales. The exhibition will feature people and architecture from Riccetti’s travels, with an emphasis on vibrant colors and energy, featuring heavy lines, including contour drawing lines and heavy, dramatic bamboo brush ink lines.

Freelance artwork, calligraphy and teaching in an art enrichment program for decades have influenced Riccetti’s gallery work. She maintains professional and active memberships in organizations such as Watercolor Art Society of Houston, Visual Arts Alliance, Women in the Visual and Literary Arts and Houston Calligraphy Guild.

Sexton explores childlike images with whimsical structures. Her 3-D work presents a sophisticated style combining a “Dr. Seuss attitude” with “Spirit Houses.” Each piece explodes with color, texture and design.

Her art appreciation of nature and interest in cultural history is demonstrated through her art work. Drawn by a fascination with rich color, luxurious texture, pattern and form, sculpted surface design has become her passion. She is committed to an artistic process that celebrates creativity and the uniqueness achievable only through imperfection and artistic fallibility.