The Museum & Arts Center's featured artists of the month for August 2009 are Mary Franchini & Friends. Join us for an artist's reception on Friday, August 7th, from 5-8 p.m. at the MAC Exhibit Center.

Welcome to Wrangell, Alaska by Mary Franchini.

Driven by a great fascination of experimental work using not only water-based paints but papers, fabric and found objects, the varied works of mixed media artist and teacher Mary Franchini range from realistic and impressionistic to abstracted and non-representation.

Purple Icons by Mary Franchini.

Yellow Cup by Mary Franchini.

In addition to Franchini's work, MAC visitors will see the works of several of her students, whom she considers friends. Of this unique teacher/student dynamic, she said: "They keep me focused, creative, and in my own space, trying to stay one step ahead. I take great pleasure in the variety and scope of the amazing pieces that are created during their time with me. It is my hope that all who view these pieces will enjoy my work as well as that of my student artist's friend's creations."

Franchini teaches in her home studio, and more of her work can be viewed online at www.maryfranchini.com.