COCC Exhibition Features Abstract Nature Paintings

Acollection of abstract paintings and drawings by artist and poet Cheri Lee Helfenstein, titled Early Spring in the Mist, is showing at Central Oregon Community College’s (COCC) Barber Library Rotunda Gallery February 6 to April 7, with a reception from 4-5:30pm on Thursday, February 9.

“Over the years I’ve been captured by the joyful freedom of abstract expressionism, especially when seen in nature,” said the Bend-based artist, a former COCC library staffer and art instructor involved in the establishment of the library’s Rotunda Gallery. “In the simplicity of nature there is perfection but not all of nature is perfect. As a keen observer of nature, I find that I am drawn to those things that at first appear perfect, but upon deeper scrutiny are actually quite the contrary.”

Helfenstein earned a bachelor of arts in painting and drawing from Southern Oregon University and received a Chinese brush-painting certificate from the University of Oregon.

For more information, contact Tina Hovekamp, director of library services, at 541-383-7295 or thovekamp@cocc.edu. In advance of college events, persons needing accommodation or transportation because of a physical or mobility disability should contact Caitlyn Gardner at 541-383-7237. For accommodation because of other disability, such as hearing impairment, contact disability services at 541-383-7583.

The Barber Library is open 8am-6pm Monday-Thursday, 8am-5pm Fridays and 12-7pm Sundays. cocc.edu/library