Hirdie Girdie to hold art reception
Hirdie Girdie Gallery will host an art reception on Jan. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. at 2490 Library Way, Sanibel, featuring January guest artist Ellen Bianchi. The gallery is celebrating its 25th year in business in 2019 and is especially pleased to have Bianchi, a former member, start its celebration year with an exhibit of her signature paper castings. A life-long artist and art educator, she has received awards for her creative teaching methods and innovative artistry in several mediums. Bianchi also has created her own unique art form with her paper castings. She begins the process by designing and creating a mold, then casts handmade recycled paper onto the mold, creating an embossed design on the paper. The cast paper is then hand painted with layers of paints and varnishes to create visual and tactile depth to the artwork, enhancing the texture and embossed design.