Theme: Travel the World through Art

Blue Whole Gallery announces its September exhibition, “Travel the World thru Art,” featuring gourd artist Jane Smith and mixed-media artist Dee Cantlon. Both artists draw inspiration from the places they have lived and traveled, and their collective work spans nearly every shade of blue found on a world map — echoing the oceans, skies, and landscapes that shaped their art.

Dee Cantlon, raised on the West Coast, has long held a deep affinity for the ocean. Her scuba diving adventures through the Caribbean and the temperate Pacific fostered a fascination with marine life that infuses her vividly colored artwork. Additional travels to Ireland, Scotland, Central America, and Greece, as well as hiking the Inca Trail, continue to inspire her nature-based acrylic paintings and pyrography pieces.

Jane Smith’s early years in Hawaii shaped her color palette and beach-themed subjects, beginning with hula instrument gourds.Thirty-four years in Arizona expanded her access to gourds and broadened her subject matter, while twenty-four years in rural Washington introduced pine needles as a recurring material and chickens as a favorite motif. Her travels to Africa, Russia, Sweden, and beyond — along with places found only in daydreams — continue to inform her work. Gourds remain Jane’s preferred canvas, transformed into musical instruments, masks, vessels, and sculptural art.

Together, Jane and Dee invite visitors on a visual journey around the globe, with artwork ranging from African- inspired figures and Southwestern-themed pieces to sea turtles and tropical reef scenes.
“Travel the World thru Art” will be on display throughout September at Blue Whole Gallery.
Blue Whole Gallery is open daily Monday through Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sundays 11am to 3pm.

Changing Exhibitions

Art galleries serve as creative hubs where artists can showcase their work and art enthusiasts can appreciate the diversity of artistic expressions. While every piece of art deserves attention, our gallery, like many others, has adopted a special practice known as our Featured Artist of the Month. This spotlight not only provides recognition for the artist but also enriches the gallery’s offerings and the overall experience for visitors. Our changing exhibitions also include area students, educators and group shows that periodically benefit community non-profit organizations.

The practice of featuring an artist each month at an art gallery is a win-win for artists, galleries, and visitors. It helps promote diversity, fosters new talent, engages the community, and keeps the gallery experience fresh and exciting. For artists, being featured is an opportunity to gain exposure and validation while connecting with a wider audience. For visitors, it offers a constantly evolving and enriching art experience. The spotlight truly shines bright on both the artists and the galleries when this tradition is embraced.