The Pigments of the Imagination exhibit continues at Norcross Gallery & Studios through June 7, a showcasing member artists’ exploration and use of pigments in their works. Two outstanding examples from the show are “Emergence” by rising artist Jacques Murphy and “Big Boy” by Claudia Jernigan.
Murphy’s evocative portrait makes viewers wonder what the subject’s thoughts and goals are. “A young man comes to self-acceptance of who he is, as he cautiously emerges out to the world …,” the artist shared.

Jernigan’s joyful and colorful painting of a rooster is the result of a creative experiment she said.
“It was an experiment in which I attempted to be free instead of rendering my usual tight watercolor technique. I used a few watercolor pencils, splashed on wet watercolors and brushed where it felt right. I’ve never quite replicated the crazy technique since but have come close a few times. I love my Big Boy!”
Artist of the month and upcoming exhibits
All Creatures Great and Small, a show about members’ celebration of animals — from beloved pets to awesome wildlife will open June 12 and run through July 12.
The current artist of the month is Adam Faust, operations director of Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. In his role at Callanwolde, he curates exhibitions and programs in collaboration with various Atlanta arts organizations, educators and artists at all stages of their careers.
Faust embraced collage as his primary art form, delving into surrealist explorations of the subconscious through dreams and automatism, creating an exceptional exhibit. His works are on display at 45 South Café in downtown Norcross, and a reception will be held on June 1 from 2 p.m. to 4 pm.
Additionally, the work of Mikki Root Dillon will be on display at the Norcross Cultural Center from May 18 through August. This exhibit shows the skill and versatility of this outstanding artist in both photography and pastel media.
From Bees to Trees
Norcross residents and visitors are invited to enter this year’s “From Bees to Trees” photo contest free of charge by submitting their photos celebrating the beauty of nature in Norcross.
As an official Bee City and Tree City, Norcross offers so many picture perfect locations in its public parks, green spaces, trails, arboretum, Discovery Garden Park and more.
Registration is open now! Entries are due by July 31. Selected photos will be on exhibit from August 28–September 27.
Ongoing classes
In addition to curating and hosting art exhibits and competitions throughout the year, Norcross Gallery & Studios also offers classes, workshops and open studio time.
- Figure and Portrait Study Sessions — Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 pm, coordinated by Anne Hall and Lynda Ellis
- Tuesday Night Drawing Group — Alternate Tuesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. 8 p.m., led by Julian Tablada
- Daytime Open Studio — Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., led by Anne Labaire
- Saturday Open Studio — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., led by Kathy Collins
For more information or to register for a class or event, visit norcrossgalleryandstudios.org.
