Hopefully Beautiful
Ayris Hatton

April 11–May 30, 2025
April 11 and May 9, 5–8 pm: receptions and 2nd Friday Art Walk
May 3–4: MOS Weekend 1
May 10–11: MOS Weekend 2

"Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder," was first penned by Margaret W. Hungerford in her book, Molly Bawn in 1876. Similar idioms were written into plays by William Shakespeare and have also been attributed to the Bible. Whatever its origin, it suggests that beauty is relative, often perceived differently, and certainly open to interpretation.

I long to connect to something beautiful, hopeful and elevating, especially in today’s world. Sometimes, I have to talk myself into picking up a paintbrush or pen, but once I’m engaged, there seems to be a vibe, a zone, or something bigger than just my voice or vision. When I paint, write, draw or sculpt, there is a chance encounter for an inspirational dance with the creative spirits. Each media seems to complement and enhance the other and hopefully, a bit of beauty emerges.

I paint the figure, landscape, still life, and a combination in oil, watercolor, and mixed media. I use the time-tested techniques of classical realism, but I inject my work with contemporary elements. I also sculpt the figure in clay, then work with a foundry to cast them in Bronze.

I have also completed two books. The Olive Branch and the Fig Tree is a memoir about growing up in Hollywood and being part of a big family involved in that scene. Dreaming Wide Awake is my first volume of poetry, prose vignettes, and related artwork. Dreaming Wide Awake II is in the works as well as a volume of short stories.

Whatever you may see in my selection of work, whether related to something personal, more universal, or both, I hope it brings a hint of beauty and a moment of tranquility.

www.ayrishatton.com
IG @ayrishatton

Red, Blue, Yellow
June 13–July 25, 2025

Explore your creativity through the timeless application of primary colors—red, blue, and yellow—to build an immersive viewing experience throughout Art Works Downtown recognized galleries: Founders’ Gallery, Underground Gallery, and Donors’ Gallery.

This exhibit series invites artists to celebrate the raw power and unbridled energy of primary colors and varying values, exploring how they shape our perceptions, evoke emotions, and ignite creative sparks. We encourage submissions that capture the essence of primary colors in bold, daring ways—whether through striking abstraction, harmonious blends, or innovative interpretations. Let your art bloom, showcasing the endless potential of these elemental colors, and join us in honoring their enduring presence as the heart of artistic creation.

Free to Participate
There is no cost to enter the exhibit. Participants must fulfill the terms outlined in the abbreviated Artwork Requirements section.

Artwork Requirements(abbreviated):

• One original artwork per artist

• Dominant use of one color: red, blue, or yellow. Varying values of a single color are acceptable.

• Size limit: artwork(2d and 3d) must not exceed 24” including frame, stand, and all materials.

• Wall-based artwork only.

• Must be priced and for sale.

• Images of explicit sexual content or violence will not be considered.

Exhibit Calendar:

• Exhibit dates: June 13–July 25

• Deliver artwork: April 3–June 4, Wed–Sat, 12–6 pm

• Receptions and Art Walks: June 13 and July 11, 5–8 pm

• ArtRageous Event: Saturday, June 21, 7–10 pm (tickets required) Learn more here.

• Public hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 12–6 pm, exhibits closed June 18–21

• Artwork pick-up: Saturday, July 23–26, Wed–Sat, 12–6 pm