Local artists showcased at Paradise event

After two years of pandemic restrictions the Paradise Center was able to bring local artists together for the Artists in Paradise event.

The Artist in Paradise exhibition is an annual three-day event showcasing Sander County painters, sculptors, potters and photographers.

The Paradise Center is owned by Sanders County and operated by the Paradise Center Board of Directors in a former school built in 1910.

When the railroad moved its operation the population of Paradise dwindled causing the school to close in 2013 with only five students. The center is now being used as a visitor’s, community and arts center.

Local artists included Art Studio 376 owner Karen Thorson showcasing her paint, glass and clay work. Thorson also teaches art classes at the Paradise Center. Some of the topics she covers include painting, pottery and lighting of subjects. The classes are for all age groups from seven through adult. Before retiring to Montana with her husband, Thorson was an art teacher in Birmingham, Alabama. For more information go to the Paradise Center website. www.paradisecentermt.org/arts/.

The Plains Wood Carvers Club had members work on display. For those that would like to become members, the club meets every Tuesday night at the Plains VFW building at 6:30pm.

Plains art teacher, Kristen Cole, was displaying her work after a twenty-year break to raise her children.

Liz Smith, Owner of Rocks by Liz, a Trout Creek resident, showed off her talent in designing and hand sculpting copper jewelry.

Ilene Paulsen, coordinator of the Artists in Paradise show, had her paintings on display.

Numerous other artists displayed their work during the show, which was well attended.