WESTFIELD — An art exhibit opening for Judith Rowley will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Living Glass Gallery, 71 E. Main St., Westfield.

Rowley, a Pittsburgh-born landscape artist, will be exhibiting her work for the first time in Chautauqua County. Rowley studied art and painting with Carol Volze-Begley in Pittsburgh, where she developed her technique for using oils and discovered her love of landscape painting.

“Landscapes mark the rhythms of life. In bright light or muted grays, the land reveals its beauty,” Rowley said. “Gifts of each season are vital to sustain humanity. Harbored in these gifts are the foundation of eternal truths. People have an interdependent relationship on the earth. In this interdependency, humanity is strengthened for continuation. Also, the interdependency between man and earth is a fragile balance. Through the mark of time, this is born out through millennia.

“The allure of landscapes has drawn artists to capture the fleeting effects of light and shadow. In this desire, artists create a tribute to the land and all its grace and allure. My journey as an artist began decades ago as gifted mentors shared the insight of their talents with me. Love of the land has inspired me to observe and paint the beauty that surrounds us. Also, landscape painters before me have influenced my paintings. Both Impressionist and Abstract painters have imprinted my work. Exploration of life has enhanced my artwork; for this I am indebted.”

Rowley spends her summers and weekend in Westfield with her husband Dan. Her art exhibit, “Judith Rowley: A Retrospective of Fragile Balance” will feature landscape and barns found in Chautauqua County as well as other areas of northwestern Pennsylvania.

For more information on the exhibit, call 269-8977.