See miniaturist's works at Marmion Academy

Marmion Academy is hosting a closing reception for the art exhibition by miniaturist Edward Cook of Batavia from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6. The exhibit, held in the Dr. Scholl's Exhibit Mezzanine at Marmion Academy, 1000 Butterfield Road, Aurora, is open to the public.

Edward Cook, a self-taught artist of miniatures, knew he wanted to be an artist since he was in second grade. Although he began painting for his own enjoyment in his youth, he began to paint seriously in 1980.

Miniature painting is a fine art specialty. Most of Cook's acrylic paintings measure 4.75-by-2.75 inches. He has a special love of nature, which can be seen in his renditions of rural landscapes, old buildings, barns, streams and waterfalls, as well as in intimate views of water lilies, one of his favorite subjects.

His paintings hang in private collections in the United States, Europe and South America, and his work is represented by several galleries. Through the years, Cook has accumulated many awards, including best of show, awards of excellence and first-place honors.

In 1995, Cook was one of 38 American miniaturists invited to London to participate in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Miniature Society, which is under the patronage of Queen Elizabeth II.

For details on the show, call Dzuriscko (630) 897-6936, ext. 219.