O P E N P O R T A L S

Artist Micky Jansen showcases a body of work, with her Open Portals series, that has been years in the making.

Open portals explores the symbolic and spiritual significance of life’s pivotal transitions, encompassing illness, recovery, and renewal.

Through bold colors and powerful depictions of female figures, Micky reflects on the strength and resilience that arise from these experiences.

This body of work delves into the interconnectedness of individuals and the moral values that guide us, evoking feelings of integrity, empathy, and a profound connection to the natural world.

Jansen’s artistic journey begins with drawing, which then evolves into various mediums, creating a unique body of work that is both visually compelling and emotionally resonant.

Open Portals channels her personal experience of breast cancer and recovery, using a minimalistic approach to the figure that invites viewers to reflect on their own interpretations. The focus on line work symbolizes life’s interconnectedness, with each piece representing the closing of one chapter and the opening of another.

Through this work, Jansen invites contemplation and introspection, offering a profound meditation on life’s continual cycles of transformation.

We hope to see you at the opening reception.

O P E N P O R T A L S runs September 27 - October 15

Closing reception October 25th 5:30pm

R O O T E D

Come view the new body of work on fabrics, from artist Lori Barker.

With a willingness to evolve and push the boundaries of her craft,  artist Lori Barker, ventures beyond her established body of work. 

Exploring new techniques and materials that breathe a fresh, experimental air into her work, has resulted in works that feel both delicate and expansive.  

R O O T E D  showcases a series of light, ethereal pieces, inviting the viewer into deeper engagement. 

The delicate interplay of form and translucency evoke the whispering presence of nature, rootedness and transcendence.  

Soft layers of transparency and texture, enhance the sense of fragility and strength inherent in trees, inviting a contemplative gaze.  The interplay of layers foster a sense of depth and movement, mirroring the intricate and often unseen connections between the natural  and the spiritual.

R O O T E D runs August 16 - Sept 13.

Closing reception Sept 13 6:00 pm

U N T A M E D

Welcome to UNTAMED, where the female form and nature converge in a celebration of life, freedom, and creativity.

VIbrant, rich colors tell stories of empowerment and sensuality. Each piece is a reflection of a journey, capturing the essence of femininity intertwined with the whimsy and beauty of nature. The florals and birds that populate there work are more than decorative elements; they are symbols of the boundless spirit and grace that is in every woman.

The women; powerful, liberated, unconfined by societal norms. The figures are confident, vibrant, and unapologetically themselves, resonating with the strength that lies within us all.

Explore UNTAMED and immerse yourself in this colorful world where nature and the female form come together in harmony. Here, life is a dance of freedom and beauty, —bold, spirited, and wonderfully untamed.

U N T A M E D runs July 12 - July 26

Artist Spotlight on Micky Jansen

In our commitment to creative community, we invite you to get to know artist Micky Jansen.

A recent studio visit with Artist; Micky Jansen.

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I had the opportunity to visit with Micky  at her beautiful Blue Amazon studio, tucked away under wooded canopies in the quiet solitude of Goshen; where her muses are the first thing you see when arriving at the property. Flowering Cherry and early blossoms on Red Maple are right outside the studio windows, as are the occasional bear.

Micky's art with strong female figures, tell stories of power found, of deep  healing, and of growth and conviction. She weaves tales of resilience, born from personal triumphs over adversity.

Having survived breast cancer, recovered from a paralyzing injury, and spending two years in total isolation on the Mogollon Rim. Her journey of rising from the ashes infuses every stroke with a profound sense of empowerment.

Sitting with Micky, I’m struck by her quiet strength, the same strength that emanates from her work. Her paintings mono prints, line drawings even sculpture; its clear that she has poured a piece of herself into every square inch of this amazing space.

It’s invigorating and it is inspiring. Mickys work, is a true testament to the transformative power of art and the indomitable strength within us all.

The a mano Gallery is proud to hold several of Mickys works and is excited to announce an upcoming workshop she is offering exclusively at a mano. More details to follow.

Cultivating Connection

There's a unique magic in sitting down with an artist, delving into their creations, and holding space for their portfolios, open to critique and questions. These intimate moments are truly invaluable to me. Each artist's work must speak to me on some level, and these interactions only deepen my experience of their artistry. For me, it's about being present with the work, allowing it to speak and resonate.

Sitting down with the artist or visiting their studios, sometimes intimate home studios that authentically reflect who these artists are, add another layer to the experience. These personal sanctuaries provide insight into their creative processes and inspirations, enriching my connection to their work. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage with more artists in this immersive manner, cultivating and fostering more creative connections.

The Creative Community Table

The Creative Community Table at a mano is where we offer classes to encourage connection and community through the arts.

Currently we are opening the table for Wednesday evenings from 5:30-7:30 for Free Collage Club. Bring your own fodder and collage materials, even something you’ve been working on, or use the materials we have here at the studio. We’ve got everything you need to get creative.

Come alone and meet new creatives or bring a friend.

Its FREE. Its Every Wednesday, begining on May 8th. and its only for a limited time.

There’s always a seat waiting for you. We hope to see you there.

Opening Reception

The once Fivepoints Annex, is now; a mano, a collaborative artists studio and gallery space owned by artist; Jenna Gonzalez. The opening reception for the new a mano gallery was held on Saturday, April 20. With a steady trickle of visitors, a mano opened its doors with live handpan music by Jim Lo Presti, light snacks and lots of art from a handful of different artists. We are off to a great start and looking forward to the ribbon cutting ceremony, with Mayor Elinor Carbone on Wednesday May 1. Thank you to everyone who showed support and came out to the reception. Community is everything to us. We are happy to be in the neighborhood.

Classroom to Gallery Program.

Our 'Classroom to Gallery Program' offers a bridge from classroom creativity to real-world artistry, providing a transformative opportunity for standout students.

Through this initiative, participants receive the Future Makers Award, recognizing their talent and dedication. By showcasing their work in a local fine art gallery, these students gain firsthand experience in the professional art world, offering them a glimpse into the life of a working artist.

It's all about community support and offering young artists the chance to explore their potential in a real-world setting.a Mano is delighted to be featuring two ceramics students from The Gilbert School in Winstead.

Congratulations Karen Mendoza-Garcia and Haelynn-Rae Derby