Clayton Fine Art Gallery's Newest Exhibition; Reception Set for Aug. 9

African wildlife photographer Jim Irwin says focusing on the animal’s eyes and eliminating distracting background noise are just a couple of the techniques he utilizes when photographing cheetahs, zebras and other exotic animals in their natural habitat.  His work will be featured as part of Clayton Fine Art Gallery’s upcoming exhibit Aug. 4 through Sept. 14.  An exhibit reception is scheduled from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9 at the gallery, which is located at 21 N. Bemiston.  The event is free and open to the public.

    The gallery, just recently opened by Irwin and partner Jerry Schmutz, features a wide array of art ranging from oil paintings, pastels and water colors to acrylics, photography, sketching, sculpture and more. Exhibited artwork typically changes every six weeks.

    Nearly 400 art enthusiasts attended the gallery’s inaugural exhibition in June. Irwin’s powerful wildlife photos taken on his recent African safaris and Schmutz’s eclectic nature scenes are featured in the current exhibit and the upcoming one.  Irwin, who is scheduled to visit Africa in September, said he tries to feature the animals interacting within their environment.  For example, a cheetah playing with her cubs, two elephants butting heads, or a giraffe eating from a tree.  He said one of the biggest mistakes people make when using a camera is trying to fit too much into a picture; he recommends one focal point. 

    Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.), Friday (noon to 7 p.m.), Saturday (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Sunday (noon to 5 p.m.).  Visit www.claytonfineartgallery.com for more information.