“Abstracts from Nature,” a solo show of recent paintings by Ethel Vrana opens June 2, 2010, at State of the Art Gallery. The paintings in this show represent a change for the artist; in the past few years, her work has evolved from landscape to abstract painting. Vrana states: “Whether I paint realistic landscapes or abstract paintings I try to capture the beauty of nature in all its forms, colors and light.” She explains that her abstract work involves experimental techniques and materials new to her and she has enjoyed the aesthetic challenges her new way of working has presented. Vrana studied at the University of Rochester where she received her B.S. degree in Fine Arts and Philosophy. She has taught art at Tompkins Cortland Community College and in the Trumansburg Central Schools and the Trumansburg Conservatory of Fine Arts. Vrana has been a member of State of the Art since 2008. This is her first solo show at the gallery. For more about Ethel and to see more of her work, please visit www.ethelvrana.com