The Artists' Workshop Gallery, 610-A Central Ave., will feature works by Hot Springs artist Jan Briggs and Hot Springs Village artist Teresa Widdifield during April. Both will be present during Friday's Gallery Walk to meet visitors and talk about their art.
Having drawn as long as she can remember, Briggs spent many hours drawing her own paper dolls and designing their clothes. At age 8, she was accepted into a children's art competition in Fort Smith. Her passion for art has continued throughout her life. In 1999, she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Henderson State University.
From working as a layout artist for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, to serving as art director in several camps, to taking commissions, her life has been filled with art.
Briggs' work hangs in The Fine Arts Center of Hot Springs, Three Rivers Art Guild in Glenwood, and Christopher's Bridal. Inspiration has come from her talented teachers, including Gary Simmons, Brince Camp, Edwin Martin, Long Hua Xu, Jon Linn, Nancy Dunaway and Richard Stephens. She said in a news release that Joe Coulter taught her to be her "own worst critic."
Widdifield began her artistic journey as a stained glass artist more than 30 years ago, designing and creating one-of-a-kind structural pieces for her clients. As her journey through art progressed, she became interested in painting and found her voice.
A passionate animal lover, she discovered painting as a way of depicting nature's fascinating creatures, emphasizing their eyes for a glimpse into their souls. "I strive to capture the essence of the animal and portray their spirit," she said.
Widdifield is the owner of Treasures In Nature art studio. She specializes in pet portraits and wildlife. She has exhibited locally at Garvan Woodland Gardens, Mountain Valley Water Co., Woodlands Auditorium, Coronado Center and DeSoto Center. Her art is represented by Artists' Workshop Gallery and she is a member of Brush Strokes Fine Arts Club, serving as workshop chairwoman in 2011 to run national and local seminars.
Entertainment on 03/31/2015