Buffalo Arts Studio brings together four artists working at the intersection of art and craft to exhibit in the Community Space gallery. Colleen Ayson, Helen Beckley-Forest, Angela Guest, and Kelly Schnurr all combine traditional modes of artmaking, including drawing, painting, and photography, with innovative textile and collage practices. The resulting objects are dynamic expressions of personal, playful gestures. Layers will be on display from June 28–August 9, 2024, with an opening reception on Friday, June 28 from 5:00–8:00 pm.

Colleen Ayson is a visual artist born and raised in San Fernando Valley, CA. She has a degree in Art from the Chelsea College of Art and Design in London. Ayson’s work explores the mysterious alchemy of beauty in nature and the amazing creatures that inhabit our world.

Helen Beckley-Forest is an artist based in Buffalo, NY. She graduated with a degree in Painting from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY in 2023. Her work touches on themes of climate change and the relationship between nature and humans. 

Angela Guest is a fabric artist and painter currently based in Buffalo, NY. Originally from Austin, TX, Guest graduated with a BA in Art, Media, and Design from DePaul University. Later, Guest studied Art Education at Buffalo State University and is currently working as a high school educator for Buffalo Public Schools. 

Kelly Schnurr is a multidisciplinary artist and mother of two living in Buffalo, NY. She merges her design background with fine art practices to capture the element of discovery and self-growth, using nature as her source of inspiration. 

Buffalo Arts Studio (BAS) connects diverse communities through visual arts via inclusive exhibitions, educational programs, mentorships, and public art while also providing affordable studio space, exposure, paid opportunities, and ongoing professional development for visual artists. 

For more information about Buffalo Arts Studio, please visit www.buffaloartsstudio.org