One thing you can expect from Ree McLaughlan Brown is that she will create something unexpected. It might be a surprising painting surface or the materials she uses for her art. Ree will be featured throughout the month of January at the Sutter Creek Gallery. Due to the New Year holiday, the opening reception for her exhibition will be held Saturday, January 8, from 2 to 5 pm.

Ree paints expressive art in various media: alcohol ink and resin, encaustic wax, cold wax and oil, powders, gold leaf and acrylics. Unexpected surfaces include mineral paper, exotic wood, aluminum, glass, and everything in sight! The most unusual surfaces are granite and marble on which a tractor blade carves rugged edges into the stone. Then the artist uses a sandblaster, air, knives, and metal implements to move the paint, wax and inks which shape the art. In addition to viewing her work at the gallery, it is also on display at local venues through the Art in Public Places program, sponsored by the Amador County Artists Association, and on her website, www.reemclaughlanbrown.ART

Following retirement from 38 years in state service, Ree paints out of her rural art studio on five acres above Jackson. In the past year, she painted daily and many of her new works are on exhibit. She explains that motion dominates her work "which dances with uplifting emotion and vivid color. My paintings speak to me and tell me their perfect titles." The artist is motivated to make a difference with her art by contributing artwork for local charitable events.

Sutter Creek Gallery invites you to meet Ree McLaughlan Brown on January 8 and to view her unexpected art at 40 Main Street, Sutter Creek.

Regular gallery hours are Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.