Darlington Arts Center in Concord Township kicks off 2022 with a new exhibit Lynnette ShelleyGallery Opening & Reception on Saturday, Jan. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m.

Lynnette Shelley is an award-winning Pennsylvania artist specializing in contemporary mixed-media animal and nature paintings. Fusing her great love of wildlife, patterns, and archetypes into her strikingly unique artworks, she creates highly detailed and complex compositions using a sophisticated process developed from a build-up of multiple layers incorporating techniques in both drawing and painting from crosshatching to ink splatter to linear painting. Some of Shelley's work (her “fauxsaic” paintings) also incorporates elements of collage in which she adds hand-colored and cut watercolor paper to the artwork in a process that resembles mosaic tile.​

Shelley's animal- and nature-themed artworks have been displayed nationally as well as regionally at museums, art galleries, and other venues. In 2021, she was awarded "Master Artisan" status by the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen. Originally from Delaware, she lives in Ambler, Pennsylvania, and maintains a private studio in Norristown.

The exhibit runs through Feb. 20 and all pieces displayed will be available for purchase. Gallery admission is free and open to the public.

Admission to the reception is also free, but RSVP is required to Michael Hahn, program manager, via email to programs@darlingtonarts.org. Light refreshments will be served. Social distancing will be observed, and masks are required unless guests are eating or drinking.