An ability to look into the center of the sun surely would be a help to local artists who recently learned more about the grid-style oil paintings rendered by Peter Dixon, of Hollis, – a professional artist of around three decades whose work often features intense yellows, oranges and whites.

Betsy Craumer, proprietor of Creative Ventures Gallery on Nashua Street in Milford and a resident of Bedford who is an accomplished landscape and pastel artist, said Dixon’s June 7 seminar opened a new avenue of artistic exploration for every participant.

“We are rather well known for showcasing artists whose passions include various forms of painting and printmaking, along with glasswork, ceramics and sculpture,” Craumer said. “Peter offered a variation that intrigued the entire class.”

Dixon said newcomers learn from taking classes and trying different styles. His paintings begin with a simple drawing, stippled in black and white, then accented with glazes bounded with lengths of masking tape into a striped pattern. See more online: peterdixonartist.com.

Dixon, a New Yorker, moved to Hollis in 1970. His education at New York’s Pratt Institute of Art & Architecture led to a teaching career and acclaimed exhibits at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, NH Institute of Art in Manchester, Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter and many other venues.

“Betsy offered me an enthusiastic group of artists who practice many different art forms,” Dixon said. “They all were interested in learning something new.”

Some of the listeners took notes or replicated the artist’s technique on paper. Ann Sobel Shaw, of Milford, focuses on acrylic and oils in her artwork. Alex Haas, of Mont Vernon, may incorporate the technique into printmaking. Amany Stokes, of Bedford, said she is “primarily oils” and was intrigued by the grid method.

Craumer said her gallery rooms abound with dozens of works of art for sale. Classes, workshops and seminars are ongoing. Young artists are especially nurtured.

“Our Annual Student Show & Sale is an art extravaganza not to be missed,” Craumer added. “Amazing works by young artists will be exhibited on the second Saturday of July, that is July 13, from 10 a.m. to noon.”

Meanwhile, Craumer said that art for all ages is the hallmark of Creative Ventures Gallery, 411 Nashua St. Many June classes are underway. Art camps are upcoming. An “Art Inspirations Summer Art Camp,” for ages 8-15 will be taught by Tami Sciola from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., July 29-Aug. 2. The same days offer afternoon sessions for those ages 8-15 now registering for Nature Summer Art Camp, taught by artist Kristine Brock, from 1-4 p.m.

More information on all the programs offered by Craumer and her artistic associates be had by calling 672-2500 or by visiting online: creativeventuresfineart.com.

– Submitted by CVG