November 1, 2007

Fusion Art Gallery features Erika Nelson

By Tonya McKiever Staff Writer

BENTONVILLE — The first Friday of each month, Fusion Art Gallery on the Square holds an informal reception for a featured artist. On Friday, people will have an opportunity to meet Erika Nelson of Bella Vista and see her work. A prolific painter, Nelson began selling her drawn and painted greeting cards when she was 7 years old.

Because of her talent, Nelson received a full college scholarship and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drawing and painting at California State University at Fullerton. She has exhibited all over Southern California, and several of her works are in celebrity collections, corporate collections and an assortment of private collections. Her work has been acquired throughout the country and overseas through eBay.

“ I’m excited about having my work at Fusion and the reception, ” Nelson explained. “ This is my first one-woman show since my husband and I moved to Arkansas. I have lots of styles and sizes, and I’m looking forward to seeing what people like. ”

Nelson’s Web site includes a comment from the artist: “ Good art to me is the kind that engages you and quenches your thirsty soul as you study it. ”

Fusion’s First Friday event will begin at 6 p. m. Friday and conclude at 9 p. m. Nelson will be on hand to visit with everyone. There will be additional fun outside, on the blocked-off street in front of the gallery. Badminton, table tennis and other games will be available for families to enjoy. Also, pumpkins can be painted for the approaching Thanksgiving holidays or with any theme the painter chooses. The pumpkins can be taken home to enjoy.

Merchandise from In Season and B’La Rue will be displayed during the event as well.

Fusion Art Gallery and Art Supplies is at 109 N. Main St. on the Bentonville Square. For more information, call 273-9078.