A solo show called “Spirits Among Us,” celebrating Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in glass by Karla Ely from Pahrump is now on exhibit in Tecopa.
An artist’s reception and Dia de los Muertos Party Costume Contest is planned for Nov. 2 and Ely will be awarding gift certificates for her artwork to those with the best costumes.
Ely is an artist who paints with glass — fused glass compositions mounted precisely in frames and ready for hanging. According to a press release, the “exhibition is a lively celebration of the dearly departed, but they are far from lifeless. The dynamic spirits featured conspicuously within these works will charm you with their individuality and enthusiasm.”
Dia de los Muertos is a favorite genre of the artist. She said, “There are no limits – anything goes, as long as it is fun.”
This annual celebration also aligns with Ely’s view that the spirit is eternal and that thoughts of the departed should bring forth joyful memories.
Living in Pahrump requires Ely to show her art at home. She and her sculptor husband can frequently be found giving studio tours at their house.
Ely’s formal art education is divided equally between traditional classes taught at Kennesaw State University and technical instruction of specific skills from prominent glass artists. Her considerable array of expertise allows her to capitalize on even the smallest details within each piece. Inspiration for new work is continuous and relentless — the result of an unrestrained and vibrant imagination.
Ely is adept in a variety of techniques and welcomes custom work. She can be reached at 775-400-9689.
Her website is www.karlaely.com.
For the duration of Ely’s show another artist, Eino, will have his 14-inch high kinetic sculpture “Wind Flower” on display. You can see a video of it on Eino’s website www.eino.org.