Art class works to be showcased

  Many of them had never touched a brush to canvas before a few weeks ago, but they are about to have their first art show.

  These aspiring artists experienced the magic of Barbara Berry.

  The nationally-known painter recently spent five weeks in Yuma as an artist in residence. Berry taught classes for both kids and adults, many of whom were just starting their journeys as artists.

  Organizers behind Berry's stay in Yuma raved at her ability to help students advance and create impressive works of art in such a relatively short period of time.

  "She's just an awesome instructor. The way she teaches makes the art seem so easy," said Dorothy Young with Heritage Festivals. "We were really lucky to have her."

  Berry's classes were taken by 23 kids - ages 7 to 12 - and 57 adults.

  Those students' art will be featured in a show premiering Friday at the Yuma Art Center, 254 S. Main St. A public reception is planned for 5 to 7 p.m.

  The students' works will remain on display through April 19.

  The genres ranged from watercolors to acrylics.

  "The art is really unique," Young said. "It's amazing how everyone can visualize the same thing so differently. Everyone has their own unique eye."

  The art was created during classroom sessions, as well as during trips to outdoor locations like the Yuma West Wetlands.

  Berry came to Yuma from Sisters, Ore., and has been teaching full time for 25 years. She studied art at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, Northern Illinois University, Metropolitan State College in Denver and the University of Northern Colorado. To learn more about her, visit BarbaraBerry.com on the Web.

  "Oh my gosh, there was just a tremendous response for her classes. People are hungry for art education in Yuma and we don't get enough of it," Young said. "People are already asking to bring her back."

  Young added that local art lovers shouldn't miss this upcoming reception or the ensuing art exhibit.

  "I think people will be amazed at what students created in such a short time. Everyone came away with success. This will just be a great show for anyone who is an artist or who just loves art."

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Darin Fenger can be reached at
dfenger@yumasun.com or 539-6860.