Art galleries open new shows

Three South Whidbey galleries open new exhibits this weekend.

“Three South Whidbey galleries open new exhibits this weekend.*At Gaskill/Olson Gallery in Langley, the work of Jan Erion and Rene Flynn-Federspiel is featured. Erion’s mixed media art is distinguished by the layering of handprinted fabrics, prints and handmade paper. New to the gallery is Flynn-Federspiel, whose oils reflect Italian architectural elements and light to create an emotional environment within each painting.The show runs through April. Meet the artists at a reception Saturday, April 1, from 6-9 p.m. Call 221-2978 for information.*Bayview Gallery presents Deon Matzen and Bruce Launer with watercolors, wood and raku in a show opening March 31. Matzen has been painting for 30 years and recently won seconds place in the International Kite Festival poster competition. Last fall she had a highly successful one-woman show in Seattle. She teaches painting both privately and at the South Whidbey campus of Skagit Valley College. Skatchet Head artist Bruce Launer will show recently completed tables utilizing both finished and raw wood elements and ceramic insets. Launer is a raku potter as well.The artists will be at an opening reception on Saturday from 6-8 p.m. The exhibit ends April 12. Call 341-1418 for information.*Island artist Kenneth Hassrick will show a new body of figurative paintings in acrylic at Museo’s new exhibit. Val Keller of Langley unveils her latest works in bronze, including a garden-size heron and new abstract sculptures. Ellen Reichart will show a recent body of mixed media works and monoprints. Emerging Whidbey Island glass artist Callahan McVay exhibits his latest work, along with new glass pieces by Dan and Joi LaChaussee.A reception for the artists will be held on April 1, 6-9 p.m. The show runs through May 3. Call 221-7737 for more information.”