“The Art of Nature” Art Debut at Carrie Garner’s
Galleria d’Arte

Using only natural materials such as pressed leaves and flowers, seeds, wood pieces, herbs, etc. Irving artist, Pavlina Panova, creates works of art that explode with life, color, and vibrancy. There is no paint involved – all colors are natural. Her creations are among the most unique expression of visual art you have ever seen. Some paintings have unique frames designed in the same style and the same media as an inherent part or continuation of the base image. Most of Panova’s creations are on board, or are canvas-based.

Plan to attend the artist’s reception at Carrie Garner’s Galleria d’Arte, Saturday, September 8, 2007, from 7pm to 10pm as Panova’s newest works are debuted in “The Art of Nature.”

A published poet, public speech writer, and script writer, Panova started her life all over again, when in 1999, she emigrated from Bulgaria to America. In Bulgaria, Panova directed a private center for studying Bulgarian language and literature. Following her move to America, Panova immersed herself into her new culture and was soon studying English, which became Renaissance-like to her. During this time, Panova became fascinated by the beauty of nature in her new home, especially in autumn. “The leaves of the trees had such bright, rich colors with gradating nuances, amazing shapes, lines and textures. God had spilled the paint generously on the fallen leaves. It was a treasure – simultaneously real and surreal -unmatched and transitional”, says Panova.

In her quest to embellish and to extend nature’s beauty, Panova started collecting and preserving leaves. She was enthralled with this art form. Excited and involved, reading books about the art of pressed flowers and natural materials, Panova began experimenting with different techniques and mediums. Soon the artist was beginning to create her first natural leaf paintings.

“The more I worked, the more I discovered new aspects of this art form. The miracle of creativity has befallen me again – on a new level, in a new medium. It makes my life now so much richer, more exciting and inspired. I feel blessed. I have been given a new way to express myself artistically. I have been given a new creative life,” says Panova.

The result of her passion is on display at Galleria d’Arte though the end of September.

MeSo Wine Lounge is now open on the first floor at Galleria d’Arte. Specializing in boutique wines and premium beers, MeSo is certain to become a favorite downtown destination. The lounge offers a daily selection of appetizers, cheeses and antipastos along with special creations by chef Mike Cate. Using only the highest quality and freshest ingredients, in combination with the newest culinary techniques, you are sure to find just the right pairings of wine, cheese and Cate’s personal creations to suit your palate.

MeSo’s comfortable and hip atmosphere is the perfect compliment to the three art galleries of the old Collin County prison. Carrie Garner’s Galleria d’Arte, Studio Duende, and Aristeia Gallery all feature works of art by local and regional artists.