Preview First Fridays

Norma Holmes

"Mother Nature is my inspiration," states prolific Plein Air painter Norma Holmes. "Painting is my passion. I paint the drama of the Cascade Mountains bathed in early morning light, the intriguing silence of the High Desert, and the many hues of the Metolius River." Holmes is an awe-inspiring talent, and a longtime gallery painter based out of Sisters. Mockingbird Gallery launches a solo show of her pastel paintings entitled "Oregon Adventures," with jazzy tunes by Rich Hurdle and friends, wine and cheese from Cada Dia from Prineville. 5 – 9 pm, Mockingbird Gallery, 869 NW Wall St.

Passion = Emotion

Exploring the natural, instinctive state of mind that derives from an intense feeling, Red Chair Gallery is exhibiting "Passion = Emotion." Silver and gemstone jewelery designer Gabrielle Taylor uses micron-sized particles of pure silver in a clay-like base that are then dried and fired in a kiln. The burnt off clay marks the silver with "deep and interesting patterns and forms," which are then combined with various gemstones. Other featured artists include longtime Bend pottery maker Michael Gwinup, who began making pottery in the 1970s and owns Blue Spruce Pottery. Other exhibits featured are Raku Wall Murals—the process of making art for walls. 5 – 9 pm, Red Chair Gallery 103 NW Oregon Ave.

Jeffrey Murray's Photography

Full of rich landscapes ranging from the High Desert to the serene mountains of the Cascade Lakes Highways and bold surrounding wildlife that explode with vivid colors, Jeffrey Murray's Fine Art Photography studio in downtown Bend is a brightly saturated, techno-colored dream world. Fascinating, vibrant and wild, First Friday is "always a party" he assures. 5 pm until late. Jeffrey Murray Gallery, 118 NW Minnesota Ave.