Painter Gail Priday and potter Jeff Szarzi exhibit at Bunnell Street Arts Center from July 4 – July 30, 2025. The exhibit opening is First Friday, July 4, 5-7pm with artist talks at 6pm, accompanied by live ASL translation.

“My paintings of the Alaskan landscape acknowledge the quiet, unpretentious beauty of a land revered for its grandeur. Rather than seeking out awe-inspiring vistas and dramatic scenery, I choose to represent the ever-changing treasures up close and underfoot. The blooming and decaying forest floor, lichen, and berries consistently capture my attention. These easily overlooked features of the landscape suggest an extraordinary and active world that exists quietly beside my own.” – Gail Priday

“My pottery is made to be used and enjoyed in the home, and each piece is deeply inspired by the natural world. My love for nature began in my adolescence, working at a local Michigan nature preserve—a formative experience that continues to shape my creative vision. To this day, I spend countless hours observing animals, studying plants, and exploring geology, drawing endless inspiration from the living landscapes around me. Using my passion for carving and drawing, I strive to capture the essence of these natural inspirations in my surface decorations. Every image is hand-carved, then thoughtfully combined with glazes chosen to complement and enhance the carving. The result is pottery that not only serves a functional purpose but also tells a visual story of the places I live and explore.” – Jeff Szarzi