2009 Open Studios Reception & Exhibition

On one of the hottest nights of the year, Napa Valley Open Studios opened with a preview exhibition and spectacular reception at Mumm’s Napa in Rutherford, CA. Although temps were hovering in the mid-90s even after sunset, artists and art enthusiasts mingled with the fabulous new creations by this year’s open studio artists.

The exhibit at Mumm’s is an incredible opportunity to preview the new creations of Napa Valley artists before the actual open studios. This year’s show is first-rate with so many talented painters, metal and stone sculptors, mosaicists, photographers, ceramists, printmakers, fiber artists, jewelry makers, glass artists and other fine craftspeople, each of whom can be reviewed at www.nvopenstudios.com.

Personal highlights were first-timers and new directions including Terry Courtney’s custom cowboy boots, Sarah Brown’s slightly sunken ceramic teapot, Shellene Hanan’s blue Tzfat doorway, and David Reichel’s new perspective on the female figure.

The exhibition runs through September 10. For more info visit www.nvopenstudios.com/reception/

Matched only by Mother Nature’s spectacular sunset, the reception and exhibition struck the perfect balance of sizzling temps, stunning art and cool sips of Mumm’s sparkling wine under the misters of the big oak tree. Bravo!