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Koi are a frequent subject for Kristi Zerull, whose family had a pond growing up. Her show at Backdoor Gallery will also include paintings of zebras, big cats and turtles. |
BY BRIDGET BALCH
Lions and tigers and koi, oh my!
Local artist Kristi Zerull's realistic nature and wildlife paintings will be displayed at the Backdoor Gallery on Plank Road from Oct. 27 to Nov. 29.
There will be an opening reception on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests will be served wine and homemade snacks and hors d'oeuvres, and will be able to speak with the artist.
Zerull, a graduate of the University of Mary Washington, is a stay-at-home mom of two boys. She takes advantage of not having to go to a 9-to-5 job every day and paints from her art studio in her home.
"I'm having fun with it," Zerull said.
The artist said that she draws her inspiration from the nature she grew up around near Roanoke. Her family was particularly fond of koi and had a pond in their basement, which is one of the reasons they are some of Zerull's favorite subjects to paint.
She has also recently become more interested in painting wild animals, particularly big cats. These animals are close to her heart, and she has become involved with Big Cat Rescue in Florida, a sanctuary dedicated to saving and caring for abused and abandoned big cats.
Two of the paintings that will be displayed in the exhibit were painted from photos of animals from the sanctuary, which will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sales of the paintings.
All works will be available for purchase.
"It's my way of bringing in Christmas funds," Zerull said.
The Backdoor Gallery is a bit off the beaten path forged by Fredericksburg's art scene, but it's well worth the drive from downtown.
"Locally, it's one of the best-looking galleries, in my opinion," Zerull said.
Its in a strip mall across from a WaWa, and people often drive by the gallery and never notice that it is there.
Molly Campbell, the gallery's assistant director, said they have been trying to reach out to the community through radio broadcasting, Facebook, mailing lists, and by offering yoga classes and evening trunk shows.
The Backdoor Gallery will celebrate its one-year anniversary on Saturday, Nov. 3, with a reception from noon to 2 p.m.
Bridget Balch: 540/374-5444
Email: bbalch@freelancestar.com
