January 21 - February 11

   IRENE RAMPTON

_{I'm All Ears, watercolor & gouache}

   SIMONE SIMONIAN

_{In The Open Shade, oil on linen}

   DON ATHAY in the Dibble Gallery

_{Late Autumn Turbulence, mixed media}

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IRENE RAMPTON graduated from Utah Technical College with a degree in Illustration and Design, then spent 20 years as a freelance artist and illustrator. Today, her watercolor and acrylic paintings vary from mildly representational to gently elusive abstractions. She has an expressive style and juicy brushstrokes that complement any subject she chooses to explore. Her work has received notable awards, including Best of Show at three watercolor society exhibitions. She is a signature member of the Utah Watercolor Society, and the Western Federation of Watercolor Societies.

Her current subject is woman’s faces. “I often find someone to paint while out and about. Frequently, I’ll sketch or take photos on the spot. I can get a spark of inspiration by something as simple as facial expressions or gestures that remind me of a specific circumstance.” - Irene Rampton

SIMONE SIMONIAN, having had the good fortune of studying under the enigmatic and formidable Alvin Gittins at the prime of his teaching career, was one of few students who got to know him well. To this day, Gittins’ powerful mantras are part of Simonian’s working lexicon that resonate with him each time he begins a new painting or drawing. After receiving his BFA from the University of Utah, Simonian further refined his figure drawing skills by attending a workshop taught by revered draftsman, Paul Davis. Later, he polished his understanding of color by working under the celebrated pastel artist, Daniel Greene.

“Understanding light, the power of form, and achieving greater likeness takes a lifetime of learning and painting. I have many masters to learn from. Thanks to all who set the standards of excellence and continue to inspire.” - Simone Simonian

There is a certain romance to the way DON ATHAY Athay approaches his work. Flowers in vases and pensive landscapes are painted with quick gestures in vivid tones. His free style allows forms to weave in and out of distinctness and take on a life of their own. Athay makes an adventure of arranging objects and colors with the intention of capturing some aspect of the surroundings in which he is a part.

“At this point in my life, as an aspiring artist, I find myself composing paintings that reflect my feelings, when standing before the magnificence of natural settings in various seasons.” - Don Athay

Please join us. Admission, as always, is free.

Celebrating Utah, regional, national and international artists since 1965

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