The Brownwood Art Association will hold a special reception on Thursday, April 7th from 5-8 p.m. in the Art Building at 215 Fisk Avenue in downtown Brownwood. The Art Association will be celebrating the work of their 2016 Artist of the Year: Denise Sommer. The Art Association members’ Spring Show exhibit will also be on display during the reception and throughout the month of April. The reception is free and open to the public.

Longtime Brownwood resident Denise Sommer is originally from Austin, but moved to Brownwood in 1977. Sommer studied art off and on since high school, taking several college classes at St. Edward’s University, The University of Texas, and San Jose State University. She has continued her lifelong art education with several workshops with the Brownwood Art Association and in Austin.

A versatile artist, Sommer works in pastels and oils predominately but also has produced impressive watercolor pieces as well as intricate collage work. “I like art because you can’t think about anything,” explains Sommer. “It’s very freeing. It gives your brain a rest. You’re not planning or focusing on your daily activities or your to-do list. It’s a release from all work and worries.”

Sommer finds inspiration from Vincent Van Gogh, appreciating the excitement and emotion reflected in his art. She is particularly moved by the work of Gustave Baumann, saying, “The sheer beauty of his art, it’s gorgeous.”

Denise Sommer’s exhibit will feature 25-30 original pieces ranging from oil works to pastel and some watercolor pieces as well as collage art. For more information on this event and other upcoming classes and art events through the Art Association, visit their website: www.brownwooodart.com.