'Fanciful Expressions' at Fine Line's Kavanagh Gallery through Aug. 12

Forty pieces of art adorn the walls and pedestals of the Kavanagh Gallery in the current art exhibition, "Fanciful Expressions."

The show explores the whimsical, lighthearted, fantastical, or silly aspects of life.

The work is an exciting mix of realistic and imaginary scenes. From 'Tea in the Garden," a colorful felted teapot by Illinois artist Cynthia Boudreau to the dark imagery used in "Killer Bunny Comes to Dinner" by Elaine Erne from Philadelphia, each artist has a very different interpretation of the theme of the show.

"Hope" is one of the pieces on display by Ohio-based artist Holly Cole. This stunning piece uses silkscreen printing, fabric painting, applique and quilting to create a fantastic effect. The artist said that when she was fully sequestered and ground down by grim daily pandemic newscasts, she thrived on stories of kindness, humor and happiness. This piece is a celebration of all the stuff that's still good for the soul, even in the worst of times. Sometimes you need some joy.

"Picnic" is a piece by California artist Paul Michael Glasser. If the name sounds familiar, you are correct - this is the same Paul Michael Glasser who was part of the crime-fighting TV duo "Starsky & Hutch" during the 1970s. Glasser is an accomplished artist whose work has often been seen on the walls of TV shows. His piece in the show, "Picnic," is a digital painting whimsically illustrating the simplicity of a picnic day under a bright sky and no thoughts of what tomorrow may bring.

"Fanciful Expressions" runs throough Thursday, Aug. 12, at the Kavanagh Gallery in the Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road in St. Charles. It is open to the public Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. For information, visit www.fineline.org or call (630) 584-9443.