This Friday, Sept. 11, 2009, from 6-9 p.m., Ultra Studios Luxe Lifestyle + Gallery in South Fayetteville will greet the end of summer with a local artist showcase and reception featuring the works of Nathan Beatty, Lisa Bauer and Debi Grimm. Local musicians Dennis Collins and Emily Kaitz will perform live during the reception.

“My hopes, dreams and passions are to combine colors, textures and light in a way that has not yet been explored,” says painter Nathan Beatty, “to create the movement and energy that is within us and without us at all times, whether we are dreaming or aware.” Beatty creates vibrant, energetic paintings that represent “the realm of alchemy and color.”

Artist Lisa Jayne Bauer is a member of the eurekaspringsartists.com directory. Her work is “more grounded in reality, having at times a sense of humor, feelings of nostalgia and a familiar connection for those who view it.” Her hope is that her paintings will open viewers’ imaginations and give them time to dream. Many of her paintings feature realistic details, enhanced with whimsy.

Fayetteville artist Debi Grimm has always loved art and being creative. She began her painting career after her children became grown-ups. She collaborated with one of her daughters to illustrate the book The Snowman, the Owl and the Groundhog by author Sharon Debowski of New Jersey. She also worked on illustrations for a colorful children’s book called Crocodile Song, which comes with a music CD. She’s proud of the fact that all four of her children are talented at drawing or painting. Grimm focuses her energy now on expressing “my love, warmth and emotions on canvas.”

During the Friday reception Emily Kaitz and Dennis Collins, versatile local musicians well known for guitars and vocals, will be performing live music. Keep up with their upcoming gigs with bluegrass band The Hogeye Ramblers at popular local venues like Smiling Jack’s Fresh Foods and Jammin’ Java on the Square.

Ultra Studios is open weekly, Tuesday-Saturday, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Check out new items from local designer Mark Hughes of Regalia Handmade Clothing. The store is currently featuring jewelry designs by The Elegant Vagabond, as well as new fall accessory and clothing designs from Brooke Benham as part of her Native Couture collection, available exclusively at Ultra Studios. Ultra Studios takes individual custom measurements and keeps the records on file for up to one year, so shoppers can achieve custom, flattering fits on all clothing purchases. All clothing and accessories comprising the Native Couture collection are designed and made locally at Ultra Studios.

For additional information, contact owner and designer Brooke Benham at 479.935.4040, or drop by the store at 118 W. South Street.

End of Summer Art Reception at Ultra Studios, 9/11/09, 6-9 p.m. from Scribe Marketing on Vimeo.