Cole Gallery gives patrons a taste of the Northwest with its August First Glance Artist Jennifer Phillips, on display for the entirety of August. But it also broadens its reach by hosting a new show from oil painter Michael Maczuga, who captures the many unique faces of America’s children in his new show, opening Aug. 14.

Both artists will attend the gallery’s August reception at 6 p.m., Aug. 14 at the downtown Edmonds gallery.

Phillips, a Seattle artist, uses earthy colors and supple light to transform her moody naturescapes. “I’m attracted to the glow and flicker of sunlight as it peaks through the trees as well as the contour of the branches as they are silhouetted against the sky,” Phillips said in a press release. “These are the things that make me fall in love with my subject over and over again.”

Phillips grew up with art all around her. She drew side-by-side with her father, an illustrator, on a daily basis. Shortly after attending Savannah College of Art and Design she moved to the Northwest pursuing her passion for the arts. After 10 years of working a day job to support her artistic endeavors, she plunged into her craft as a full-time career.

In Maczuga’s show, the artist depicts the rich ethnic diversity of children from America’s many cultures. From children on farms and in cities, to kids dancing and playing in heritage festivals, Maczuga continues to prove he is one of the world’s premier painters of children.

“Maczuga captures the soul of his subjects with Impressionist brush strokes and colorful expression,” Denise Cole, gallery owner said in a press release. “It’s a wonder and delight that draws you in to every small beautiful face.”

Living in Arizona, Maczuga began drawing at a young age. When he graduated in 1975 life took him a different direction. He began his own swim club, The Arizona Marlins, where he coaches and trains competitive swimmers. In 2000, Maczuga renewed his love and skill for art studying with fine artists like Mike Malm and Gabor Svagrik. He continues to work with children and youth in swimming as well as in the arts.