FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Editorial Contact Monique Marino Masquerade In Clay 858-748-5543 masqueradeinclay@hotmail.com
Whimsical Art Exhibit and Benefit at Café Aroma
-- “Wondrous Whimsy” is a new ceramic sculpture and oil painting exhibit at Café Aroma with a portion of the exhibit dedicated to raising funds for the Living Free animal sanctuary of Idyllwild. -“Wondrous Whimsy” is a diverse collection of both ceramic sculptures and oil paintings created by local artist Monique Marino who is known for her whimsical approach to art. Her hand-built sculptures and paintings are vivid, full of personality and humor. As Marino states: “My art is a direct result of my goal to never dwell upon the negative. I inject humor and whimsy into each piece in order to focus my energies upon the lighter side of life. I use clay and oil paints as the vehicle to achieve this goal as I am endlessly fascinated by the idiosyncrasies life and try to show that with my art. I have no lofty goals when I create, my only desire to bring joy, smiles and laughter to all who view it.” From the “Beautiful Bathing Bertha” collection to the “Angels in Waiting” series, humor is evident immediately when viewing pieces from “Wondrous Whimsy.” As a way to give back to the community, Marino has created a special collection of dog inspired art titled “In the Dog House” in which she will donate a portion of the proceeds from each item sold from this collection to the Living Free organization of Idyllwild. Living Free is a no-kill, non-profit animal sanctuary that saves and finds qualified homes for orphaned cats and dogs facing shelter euthanasia. Marino is an award winning artist whose work is also currently being exhibited at Lily Rock Gallery in Idyllwild and San Diego Art Department in San Diego as well as her newest pieces at Café Aroma. Her work has appeared in the national magazine Better Homes and Gardens Creative Home and has been featured in the national television shows “That’s Clever” and “Crafter’s Coast to Coast.” Marino’s public art experience includes a 25’ sculpture which she created for the Port of San Diego. Additionally, numerous pieces by Marino are held in private collections throughout the United States. For more information regarding her work, visit www. masqueradeinclay.com or email her at masqueradeinclay@hotmail.com. “Wondrous Whimsy” runs from November 2, 2007 through January 8, 2008. The opening reception will be held on November 4, 2007 from 1-3 pm at Café Aroma. ###