Plans moving forward for art indoors and outside

“Challenging” seems to be the word for the day. As we move into various phases of reopening businesses and balance decisions to postpone or cancel upcoming events, coping with the challenges enters each conversation. Decisions are being made on how to handle and control the flow of people anxious to get back to normal, at least to some degree. Business owners and managers, as well the public, are dealing with ways to interact yet remain distant. Guiding the safe flow through shopping and keeping up with an increased need to clean and sanitize is indeed challenging. And let’s face it: Not everyone is cooperative. Please be respectful of others. Masks protect both the wearer and those they encounter. Washing your hands is better than wearing gloves because it stops the flow. Gloves are like unwashed hands. Carry disinfectant wipes when you shop. Stay safe. I have lots of good news this week! Stella’s Art Gallery is opening with limited hours, Painesville’s Art in the Park is still on for Aug. 15, Valley Art Center has an online class schedule, the Willoughby ArtsFest is still accepting applications and has been moved to Aug. 29. Art sales continue online at Mentor’s Gallery One, 7003 Center St. All artwork prices have been slashed — you can get 50% off all in-stock giclees — as they prepare to close the building. Call owner Alan Brown at 440-255-1200 or 800-621-1141 or visit galleryone.com for more information.

“Birdhouses and Walking Sticks,” is a nod to Lake Metroparks’ Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland. “We are showcasing 16 walking sticks that were supposed to be in Penitentiary Glen’s (amateur photo contest and show) as a tribute to our friends there,” Klein said. “(Lake Metroparks’) Wendy Pittenger worked so hard to organize an amazing show that went unseen due to COVID-19. In her honor, we are showing off our sticks and remaining birdhouse from last year’s spring show. Don’t be surprised to see some squirrel tables pop up decorated and painted by our own Stella’s artists.” The senior class of 2020 has missed many graduating celebrations and activities. But one, the Riverside High School Art IV Show, “Feel the Rhythm,” has been transformed to a virtual show launching May 15 on Stella’s website, stellasartgallery.com, and social media channels.