(Above: Jordan K. Walker’s Treasure in the Leaf Litter)

By Randi Bjornstad

Melissa Sikes’ Strawberries

Considering that the Maude Kerns Art Center has been around for 71 years this year, it may seem a bit surprising that there never has been a still life invitational show before now, but here it is: Everyday Inspiration: A Still Life Invitational Show, which opens May 14 and runs through June 4.

It promises to be huge and varied, with work by 34 Lane County artists, whose collective experience ranges from renowned to fledgling, with more than 120 pieces.

Pink Dogwood with Three Apples, by Sarkis Antikajian

The exhibit also offers a special glimpse into the the creation of a still life artwork. Several of the artists represented in the show — Kate Bollons, Sarah Ciampa, Carolyn Gates, Gabriella Soraci, and Jordan K. Walker — also have been art instructors and will set up three-dimensional installations that illustrate how a still life can be conceived and arranged.

The pieces in the show run the gamut of mediums, including watercolor, pastel, oil, acrylic, gouache, pencil, charcoal, photography, linocut reduction, and textile. Likewise, subjects range from the traditional flowers and fruits to the whimsical — a fork-pierced pickle — and stylistic modernist objects.

A virtual one-hour Artist Talk will be offered via Zoom at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 20, moderated by Maude Kerns’ exhibits coordinator Sarah Ciampa speaking with artists Lisa Livoni, Gabriella Soraci, and Jordan K. Walker. To “attend,” request an emailed Zoom link via the center’s website at mkartcenter.org.

Bets Cole’s Trumpeted Blooms

In accordance with state health requirements during the continuing coronavirus pandemic, the exhibit may be viewed either in person or online. The number of people allowed in the gallery at one time will be set by current conditions, and the art center recommends that people who wish to attend in person sign up online to reserve a spot.

Purchase of art pieces may be done either in person or online.

Everyday Inspiration: A Still Life Invitational Show

When: May 14 through June 4

Where: Maude Kerns Art Center, 1910 E. 15th Ave., Eugene (corner of East 15th and Villard streets)

Details: Virtual artist talk at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 20; request an emailed Zoom link on the center’s website to participate

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday when exhibits are on display

Information: 541-345-1571 or mkartcenter.org

All Dressed Up, by Carolyn Gates