RIPLEY – Nineteen artist members of the North Shore Arts Alliance are exhibiting work in a group show entitled “Spring Fling/April Fools” at the Sensory Winery and Art Gallery in Ripley. The show begins with a reception April 4 from 7 to 9 p.m. with the exhibit running through May 10. The reception is free and open to the public

“Spring Fling/April Fools” art show is a tongue-in-cheek way of expressing exhaustion with this long, cold winter and the hope of spring and all the wonder it brings. April Fools highlights the whimsical nature that comes with the first day of April and represents work by the artists that may not be something that is of their usual nature.

This show includes work in a variety of media from the NSAA members including painting, photography, sculpture, pottery and mixed media.

The featured artists are: Christine French, Ronnie Lafferty, Linda Lavid, Patti Kolosky, Barb Joy, Cyn Gailey, James East, Marcia Merrins, Susan McKay, George Petrella, Trent Lutes, Susan Wolfe, Thomas Annear, Carrie Tredo, Lucille Bryant, Amy Jackman, Nancy Nixon Ensign, Mara Rubin and Christine Davis Mantai. Petrella and Jackman are curating the show.

The show continues a partnership the NSAA has with Sensory Winery/Art Gallery in Ripley. Robert Lorei, manager, has been able to promote both the winery and the arts in combination in a unique manner that has benefited both the business and the local arts communities. The owner Kevin Daughrity, has encouraged the collaboration based on his appreciation of the visual and culinary arts. This partnership bolsters the arts and business communities, tourism, and the quality of life in Chautauqua County and Western New York.

Sensory Winery and Art Gallery is a sponsor of NSAA’s signature event, the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Art Trail. The gallery is located approximately two miles outside of downtown Ripley heading towards the Pennsylvania border at 10593 W. Main Road (Route 20), directly across the street from Quincy Cellars Winery.

The NSAA is a not-for-profit co-operative marketing, promotional and membership organization working on behalf of artists in Chautauqua County. For more information, go to www.northshoreartsalliance.com. Local artists are encouraged to join as members and help promote a vibrant arts community in Chautauqua County.