September at Sutter Creek Gallery: Indigenous artist Leanne Kelly

Artists create using all sorts of surfaces:  canvas, paper, and boards of all types.  Leanne Kelly’s primary “canvas” is a gourd.  She carves and burns designs into the surface; applies paint, ink, wax and stain; and embellishes with beads, feathers, jewels, yarn and pine needles.  In her hands, the final products are truly works of art.  Among these are her very popular necklaces, gourd baskets—some quite tiny—as well as lamps and other decorative items.  These unique artworks will be featured during the month of September at Sutter Creek Gallery.

Leanne Kelly is an indigenous artist of Onondaga/ Potawatomi descent. Her work is greatly influenced by her heritage and her love of the outdoors.  Many of her designs contain multiple tribal influences, including Eastern Woodland, Pacific Northwest, Plains, and the influences of the Native American Church.  Kelly creates her work as a form of meditation and a way to share herself with others.  “If my pieces bring joy and wonder to those who see and hold them, then it is worth every second it takes to make them. “

Sutter Creek Gallery invites you to meet Leanne Kelly at the September 2 reception, starting at 2 p.m., to view her exciting and unique creations, including colored pencil portraits of French mastiffs, which she breeds. She is one of the many local artists exhibiting at the cooperative located in the heart of Sutter Creek at 35 Main Street.  Besides original paintings and photographs, Sutter Creek Gallery offers many affordable items including prints, cards, jewelry, ceramics and fiber arts.  The gallery is open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 1 a.m. to 6 p.m.  For additional information, call 209-267-0228, email suttercreekgallery@gmail.com or visit www.suttercreekgallery.com.