Camilla Engman's acrylic paintings, seemly representational, reveal subtle nuances that lead to more personal interpretation. Submitted photo

LUNAR BOY GALLERY TAKES AIM WITH ‘SHOOT THE MOON’

Lunar Boy Gallery will present “Shoot the Moon,” an exhibit of artworks by international artists, with an opening reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in conjunction with Astoria’s Second Saturday Art Walk.

When artist Kevin Titzer contacted Lunar Boy Gallery co-owner Deborah Starr to inquire about the possibility of scheduling a show for himself and some creative cohorts, the only question from Starr was, “What month would you like to have?” From all the way back there in 2007, Titzer ventured that “October would be a fun month.” Thus, “Shoot the Moon” came into being, an international show of three creative stars: Titzer (United States), Camilla Engman (Sweden) and Sergio Mora (Spain).

Starr reports that Titzer’s three-dimensional pieces of wood, metal and acrylic seem to rise from the inner spaces of dreams, where the boundaries between good and evil and beauty and horror are blurred to the point of nonexistence. His sculptural creations are expertly crafted characters that are both exceedingly charming and somewhat demented.

Swedish artist Engman lives and works as a full-time artist in Goteborg. She is best known for her ethereal acrylic paintings that communicate a depth of mood and relationship by means of a skilled no-nonsense style. Engman masterfully exercises a palette of white, neutrals and gentle hues into a static visual performance that is anything but plain. Her talent attests to her commissioned clients, including such names as Disney Studios and the New York Times.

Starr said of Mora that it is “a snap to describe this amazing artist – and then it is virtually impossible.” His detailed oil paintings of exquisitely-imagined creatures are “like butter on canvas.” Dark-skinned demons dance and cat-faced beasts usher odd bunny-suited boys to the moon. All this surreal imagery is served up with an expertly finished technique that is a delight to behold. “It has been a pleasure to work with Mr. Mora,” Starr commented, “This guy is truly on top of his game.” For an extra special treat, she recommends taking a virtual trip to the land of www.sergiomora.com, peruse the artwork found there and be sure to read the biography page.

“Shoot the Moon,” an oil on canvas by Sergio Mora, takes viewers to the outer limits of the imagination, and beyond. Submitted photo

Refreshments and unique merchandise will be on hand, as always during the art walks, at Lunar Boy Gallery, 1133 Commercial St. For more information, call (503) 325-1566 or e-mail info@lunarboygallery.com

ARTIST PROVES OLD ADAGE WRONG BY BOTH ‘DOING’ AND TEACHING

Old Town Framing will present the works of Mickey Cereghino during an artist reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in conjunction with Astoria’s Second Saturday Art Walk.

Cereghino grew up in Portland, studied art in Boise, Idaho, lived in Tillamook and recently moved to Astoria. “Astoria seems like a wonderful place for me to raise my family, which is growing rapidly,” he said. The works in this show are diverse, but he finds it difficult not to include his 2-year-old daughter in his current work. His eclectic mix of mediums and subject matter makes him a versatile artist. It also makes him an excellent art teacher, which is helpful, because he is the new Astoria High School art teacher. He is passionate about promoting his students’ artwork. “Though I haven’t been in Astoria very long, it seems like the best of both worlds to me; a smaller town that is supportive of its youth and a strong arts community,” he said. “I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Mickey Cereghino takes time out from teaching high school art to create his own, focusing on portraits with occasionally forays into other styles. Submitted photo

Cereghino’s main focus is portraits and reality with some exploration into differing styles and techniques. He reports becoming intrigued by whatever his students are using and ends up with small projects of his own in a wide variety of mediums.

If pressed, Cereghino said he would choose charcoals, oils and watercolors as his favorite tools, but that he loves it all, the art, the kids, the community and his family; not necessarily in that order.

Old Town Framing Company is located at 1287 Commercial St. Snacks by Anna will be served during the reception.