Depot features Kowalski in her first Red Wing show

For emerging artist Maria Dudley Kowalski, art began in childhood and continues to be inspired by children as seen in “Play” at Red Wing Depot Gallery.

Her work can be seen as an addition to the Area School Student Show, an event showcasing the work of more than 120 area students. A public reception until 5 p.m. today marks the opening of the show, which runs through March 31.

Kowalski will offer an “artist talk” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday March 8 at the Depot Gallery.

“As a child the world is your playground, and pure joy is easy to find. Adults burdened by responsibility, often forget to just be happy. I believe that it is important to find joy in the simple things and just play," she said.

Seeing her niece play on the spring chicken at a local park helped inspire a series of spring toys. Kowalski said she uses her understanding of color and composition to shape the world she creates in her artwork — including the “Clucks” series.

Kowalski was born and raised in Hutchinson, Kan. She has a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University and master’s from Laguna Beach College of Art and Design. She lived for a time in Florence, Italy, and studied the European masters.

She and her husband, who is a photographer, live in Maiden Rock where she said they are inspired daily by the beauty along the Great River Road.

Red Wing Arts Association is committed to a focus on promoting the arts and support of the creative community in Red Wing and the surrounding area, Executive Director Dan Guida said. For further information contact 651-388-7569 or info@rwarts.org

At a glance ...

Who: Maria Dudley Kowalski

What: an artist talk

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday March 8

Where: Depot Gallery, 418 Levee St.

Cost: Free

More info: 651-388-7569 or www.redwingartsassociation.org

Tags: arts and entertainment, red wing, lifestyle, arts