Terry Shepherd is probably the best-known ceramics artist in Grand Junction (besides being one of the nicest guys). He is an artist in residence at The Art Center, and each year they host a show for him. And guess what?! The opening reception is this Friday, Dec. 4. He, along with The Outsiders (more on them later), will exhibit their work with more art from the Henry Hite Collection and Hawaiian Quilts. Is that eclectic enough for you?!? Wow. 

Anyway, Terry's work runs the gamut from huge vessels to smaller vases, platters and more -- and it is all very reasonably priced. His glazes are dazzling and his modesty monumental.  

The Outsiders, who are also showing, are a group of wonderful women who have united in their artwork, their travels and their lives. As close friends, they have been though much together and find joy in their painting. Each has a unique style, and their mediums vary. Each one of these women is an icon in the Grand Junction arts community and a joy to know. Man, this Art Center opening is full of incredible talent and VERY wonderful people. Be sure to go on Friday and, if you can't, visit The Art Center throughout the month to see the entire eclectic show.

Along with The Art Center, numerous other galleries and shops downtown join in to host  First Friday on Dec. 4. At Frame Works & Gallery, you'll see master works by Rob Kurtzman, photographer extraordinaire and Dan Loge, awesome oil painter. (He was my very first instructor!) A wonderful, intimate atmosphere with fun people.

Friday is also the The Gift Show at Hangups downtown. Lots of smaller art wonders at very reasonable prices. Great for unique holiday gifts. John Lintott is the owner, and he'll have lots of his work hanging. If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing (or owning) his work, you're missin' out. He is an artistic highlight in this community -- besides being about the funniest and sweetest man you'll ever know. 

Brooks Powell shows her fine oil paintings at Frame Depot beginning Saturday with an art opening. Oh, Brooks. What can I say about Brooks?!? Her oil landscape paintings are magical, as is her personality. When in her presence, you somehow feel special. She reminds me of Georgia O'Keefe. And when she smiles at you (as she always does), you feel warm. Can you tell I love this woman?!

OK, enough mushy stuff. Also on tap this weekend is "High School Musical" at the Lincoln Park Barn and a couple of concerts at Moss Performing Art Center at Mesa State, including the Mesa State College Wind Symphony on Dec. 4, The Mesa State College Best of the West Music Festival on Saturday and on Sunday the Mesa State Holiday Concert. Whew! We've go many a talented folk at Mesa State.

Oh, and a couple more things... Saturday night is the annual "Parade of Lights" downtown (soooo much fun!), and Sunday is FREE admission at the Botanical Gardens.

Alrighty then... my fingers are tired! Next week is packed with some wonderful surprises, and I'll write about them in the next few days. Until then, have a holly jolly!