The work of artists Nancy Norman (magical realism paintings) and Andrew Holmberg (blown glass for the garden), as well as the artists themselves, are DragonFire Gallery's featured attractions over the Spring Unveiling Arts Festival weekend. –

Behind the noble act of creation lies intention. The artist must have an aim in mind (even if that aim is to have no aim at all), a spark that begins their process.

For Catherine Foster of DragonFire Gallery, this aim is very specific in her latest body of work, the Peace Prevails series, in which she has embossed the word for peace in 300 different languages including Braille — into the metal that is her canvas. The result is stunning, the intention strong.

 Art, harmony and peace, these are the driving forces in my current body of work, says Foster, who works with multiple layers of paint, polymer and resin on embossed copper sheets to create rich, glowing surfaces that reveal words in the myriad languages of mankind.

  It is Fosters goal to maintain feelings of inner peace as she creates her artwork, thereby passing the intention onto those who view it.

  I know that within my heart and soul, peace prevails and is spoken in many languages, Foster says of the inspiration poured into her work.

  As DragonFire edges towards its tenth anniversary, the space continues to change and evolve. In addition to unveiling new work by almost all of the artists represented by the gallery, a new space within the business (formerly occupied by Inspired Cafe) will be revealed.

  There is a bit mystery surrounding the transformation of the space, which is not surprising for those who know Eeva Lantela, DragonFires visionary owner. Lantela is inspired by lifes mysteries and knows how to add appropriate drama to an event like Spring Unveiling.

  The new addition will be worth checking out if for no other reason than to see what Lantela will do with it and what yet-to-be-disclosed media it will showcase.

  In addition, there will be the more traditional unveilings of new works by Foster (embossed copper kimonos), Nancy Norman (magical realism paintings) and Andrew Holmberg (blown glass for the garden).

  One of the gallerys longest-showing artists, Norman utilizes a rich palette of acrylics to contemplate life by the sea through the lens of magical realism, according to Lantella. Greatly influenced by the impressionists, she finds inspiration in nature, travel and people in every day situations experiencing grace.

My favorite work has the intense irrational reality of a dream, Norman says. Painting is a type of meditation: there is just me, the brush, joyous color; and music. Almost always, I have a painting in progress on my table.

Holmburg, a native of the Pacific Northwest, grew up with art in his immediate surroundings as the son of two professional crafts people. His richly colored, hand-blown glass pieces are gallery worthy, but meant for gardens where they can collect dewdrops and sunlight. One the charming qualities of Holmbergs work is its complete lack of pretension; he has created a line of highly accessible art that is affordable and enjoyable.

  The festivities begin Friday, April 29 with a Collectors Preview from 4 to 6 p.m. On Saturday, April 30, DragonFire will host artist demonstrations by Foster, Holmberg and Norman from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with an unveiling of their newest work at noon. A Spring Unveiling Reception begins at 4 p.m. with live music by Luminos. Finally, on Sunday, May 1, there will be a light brunch reception from 11 a.m. to 1p.m.

With a diverse collection of affordable, original artwork, DragonFire has built up a following over the last decade. It is a light, colorful space filled with beautiful creations and a welcoming atmosphere.

The best compliment that I receive again and again when people walk into this space is that it makes people feel good, it makes them happy, Lantella said on a recent afternoon, a smile on her face. And that makes me feel good.