WADDINGTON — The Gallery at Lake Saint Lawrence Arts is kicking off its 10th season with a brand-new exhibit featuring three distinctive artists whose work spans a variety of mediums, from weaving and photography to watercolor painting.

The exhibit, which opened Thursday, Jan. 23, will be on display until March 22 and offers a unique glimpse into the creative worlds of Susan Riley, Beverly Patchin, and Paul Dickson.

Featured Artists:

Susan Riley – The Art of Weaving

Susan Riley’s journey into the art of weaving began in her dreams at the age of 25, when she first became fascinated by the process of weaving threads into fabric. After receiving a loom as a birthday gift from her husband, the loom sat untouched for 20 years. But after retiring at 65, Riley made a commitment to learn weaving, eventually building a weaving studio complete with four looms and a treasure trove of yarn.

Today, Riley is known for her intricate, textured wall hangings and woven pieces that reflect her love of different cultures and the animals that provide the wool. With a particular interest in world cultures and travel, Riley’s work is an exquisite blend of technique and storytelling. She is a member of the Wednesday Weavers group at the Thousand Islands Handweavers Museum in Clayton and serves as the president of The Gallery at Lake Saint Lawrence Arts.

‘Beverly Patchin – Capturing the World Through the Lens

Beverly Patchin, also a founding member of The Gallery, is the only photographer currently represented at the space. Her journey into photography began later in life, after years of balancing work and family life. It wasn’t until her retirement and a visit to a Professional Photographers of America convention in Tampa, Florida, that Patchin fully immersed herself in the art form.

Her photographic work spans portraits, nature scenes, and striking images of “odd” items that capture her creative eye. Patchin’s photos have been featured in numerous juried shows across the North Country, earning her multiple awards. At The Gallery, visitors can find a wide range of her work, including framed photos, greeting cards, and gift items. Additionally, Patchin is a custom framer, offering her framing services at The Gallery and across the region.

Paul Dickson – Watercolors That Capture Nature’s Beauty

Paul Dickson’s artistic journey took time to unfold. Although he had an early interest in sketching and wood carving, it wasn’t until his late 80s that Dickson felt his art might resonate with others. At 92, Dickson is still actively painting and sketching, with a focus on watercolor depictions of waterfowl in their natural habitats.

Dickson’s love for nature, particularly birds and wildlife, is evident in his detailed and expressive watercolor works. His career with the railroads and service in the US Air Force influenced his worldview, but it was his passion for nature that became his true artistic calling. A longtime practitioner of watercolor, Dickson’s portrayals of animals, landscapes, and seascapes have earned him recognition within the artistic community.