Gallery Opening Night
Gallery Opening Night Showcases the Artistry of Claudia Kirkpatrick and Members’ Art Challenge “Emulating the Masters”
By Amy Nichols
Mark your calendar for Friday, June 6, from 5–7 PM, and join us for Gallery Opening Night—an inspiring evening of art, conversation, and celebration. This free event welcomes art enthusiasts and community members to connect with local artists while enjoying light refreshments, including wine and non-alcoholic beverages. Don’t miss the chance to meet featured artist Claudia and other talented creators!
The Artistry of Claudia Kirkpatrick: A Journey Through Mediums and Inspiration
The Plateau Creative Arts Center is delighted to showcase Claudia Kirkpatrick as June’s featured artist. Claudia’s artistic journey is marked by her deep love for all mediums, including mixed media, oils, and pastels. However, it was watercolors that first captured her heart—a passion she attributes to the guidance of her teacher, Marilyn Brown. The moment she experienced their delicate beauty, she knew she had found her true medium.
Inspired by vibrant photos and captivating scenes, Claudia seeks artistic motivation through research and by visiting renowned galleries such as the Victoria & Albert Museum in Wales. While she carefully plans the composition, medium, size, and color palette of each piece, she embraces the organic evolution of her work, allowing each painting to take on a life of its own.
Aging Beauty by Claudia Kirkpatrick
A lifelong learner, Claudia has expanded her artistic knowledge through courses at Madonna University, hands-on practice, and lessons from esteemed artists such as Judi Betts, Tom Lynch, Royland Roycroft, Joe Fettigus, and others—mentors who have fueled her creativity and joy.
Her dedication to the craft has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Purchase Award at the Depot Days Show, the People’s Choice Award, and various show ribbons.
Q&A with the Artist
What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your art?
I hope my paintings allow viewers to experience the emotions and beauty I saw when creating each piece.
What is a memorable moment or achievement in your career?
Winning my first blue ribbon at the Plateau Creative Arts Center, shortly after joining the Art Guild in 1990, was an unforgettable milestone.
What are you currently working on?
I’m creating a Polar Bear painting for the upcoming People’s Choice Awards Show.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists about finding their unique style?
Practice, practice, practice—explore all mediums! Every artist has a painting within them, waiting to be expressed.
June Members’ Art Challenge: Emulating the Masters
Members’ Art Challenges are a great way to get a range of artists to exhibit their work together. Not only does it provide established artists with an event to present their work, but it also gives up-and-coming artists the opportunity to enter the art world.
The theme for June will be “Emulating the Masters.” Participating members randomly drew the name of a master artist from a selection and will craft a piece that reflects the style and influence of the artist they received. By emulating their styles & techniques, artists will develop a new skill set to use in personal art projects as well as gain a greater insight into art history. For these themes, the artist will choose their interpretation and choice of medium. “Emulating the Masters” will be on display from June 6-July 2.
About the Plateau Creative Arts Center
The Plateau Creative Arts Center is dedicated to teaching, learning and inspiring by cultivating the artistic talent and abilities of people, making all art accessible in a welcoming and enriching environment.
The Arts Center, located at 451 Lakeview Drive, welcomes the public, Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Our phone number is 931-707-7249.