Kearney Art In The Park 2022

See Great Art at Art in the Park

You’re invited to Kearney Art in the Park July 9-10, 2022 at Harmon Park in Kearney, Nebraska. The show opens Saturday, July 9 from 12-6 and Sunday from 9-4.

Come enjoy work from over fifty local, area and regional artists. Plus there is always great music and yummies on hand, too. Come early and stay cool!

Here’s a map showing all of the artists and where Gary and I will be set up. Look forward to seeing you if you are near Kearney.

Love, Morning Exhibition Opens December 30

You’re Invited to Love, Morning

The opening reception for my upcoming exhibition at the Western Nebraska Arts Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, is Thursday, December 30th from 5-7 pm and you’re invited!

I will have twenty recent paintings on display through January 30, 2022. Here are some thoughts about the show.

I have always been an early riser. It is my time to be quiet, to think, to read, to pray. It is the time when energy flows so I often begin painting, many times when it is still dark. When the days are long I often will be out with my paints before the sun rises or close to that time. That has allowed me the privilege of seeing the sun break over the horizon many, many times.

I am in love with the colors of morning. And the dependability of it. Light overcomes darkness day after day. For me it is a symbol of a bigger and better truth that gives hope to all of us….”The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” -John 1:5. These paintings come from that special love letter that comes daily without fail. It is sent by the Creator of light and signed “Love, Morning.”

Still Standing | 11 x 14 | Oil on Panel | © Beth Cole

Wishing you and your family much joy as we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth. Joy to the world!

—Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

You're Invited Oct 1-2 Art Show at Brickwalk Gallery, Kearney NE

I am hosting my third annual online show and sale October 1-2 and you’re invited! If you would like to attend online, please request an invite here. Everyone is welcome at the in person event hosted by the Brickwalk Gallery in Kearney, Nebraska, Friday October 1st from 7-9 and Saturday October 2nd from 10-3.

On display will be original art of all sizes, plus a grouping of small plein air paintings from a 30 day painting challenge. Join us for great conversation, music, cash bar, hors d'oeuvres and art!

—Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

Colorado Wildfire Benefit Auction

Light and Life | 11 x 14 | Oil on Canvas | © Beth Cole

Ashes to Art Project Benefits Colorado Fire Fighters

I am happy to share that I am one of more than 80 artists from across the country who were invited to donate a piece of their artwork to be sold in an online auction from May 10 – 15. The auction will feature art made of charcoal from the devastating wildfires in Colorado that burned more than 700,000 acres.

The 2021 Ashes to Art Project, co-founded in 2012 by Lori Joseph and Tim O’Hara after the Colorado High Park Fire, asks artists across the country to donate various forms of art —ranging from paintings to jewelry to sculptures — to be sold in an online auction for charity. Their art must feature charcoal from the wildfires in some way. Here is an image of the charcoal underlay for my piece.

Charcoal Underlay from the Wildfire

All proceeds from this year’s auction will equally benefit the Poudre Canyon Fire Protection District and the Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department — two volunteer fire departments that were financially devastated after working tirelessly for several months to contain and extinguish the wildfires.

Online bidding for pieces will begin today - Monday, May 10 through 8 p.m. (MST) Saturday, May 15. Items can be viewed and bid on at the Bidding for Good website: Here is the link to the artwork I donated.

Artists from all 50 states are represented. Work from artists from Columbia, South America and Great Britain are also featured this year. There will be about 100 pieces of art available for bidding.

Thanks for looking and considering a purchase which supports this important cause.

—Beth Cole
Soli Deo Gloria

Painting Exhibition PROXIMITY Opens At Coram Deo Gallery Omaha

P R O X I M I T Y : Beauty in the Familiar

My heart spills over as I prepare to show the work of my hands at the beautiful Coram Deo Gallery in Omaha. The opening reception is Friday, March 26, 2021 from 5:30 to 8:00 and I will say a few words about the show around 6:30.

The show is titled PROXIMITY and here is my heart behind the paintings.

This exhibition is about the place we have called home for over forty years, a place with an expanse of natural beauty that was hidden to me. For many years my heart was unsettled in these surroundings and so much time and energy was wasted looking afar. Maybe you can relate. As God has drawn me deeper to himself, he has shown me what it means to be content, and my eyes have been opened to a sense of wonder in the familiar, especially as I look up or around. I believe there is much beauty in this ordinary place. Being vulnerable with my work is at once life-giving and completely draining. If not for the grace of God I am certain I wouldn't be able to paint a thing. This exhibition is the result of His steady and continuing work in and through me, and I pray His work in me brings good to you.

If you are in the Omaha area, I hope you are able to join us. I would be honored by your presence.

Enjoy the weekend.

—Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

Gathered | 12 x 24 | Oil on Panel | © Beth Cole

Buy SPIRIT Art Online Apr 3-17, 2020 - Art By Nebraska Artists

Fallow | © Beth Cole | Oil on Linen | 18 x 24

Just a quick hello today to share a cool event. There will be a huge collection of beautiful Nebraska art available to buy online beginning this Friday, April 3, 2020 at 8 am through April 17th, 2020 at noon. The auction, SPIRIT: A Celebration of Art in the Heartland, benefits the Museum of Nebraska Art in Kearney, Nebraska, and involves over 70 Nebraska artists - imagine the variety!

I am honored to have three pieces available for this event, you can register to see all the work and bid on everything by visiting this page.

Paintings by Beth Cole for the SPIRIT Online Auction, April 3-17, 2020

The online auction is open to anyone, wherever you are in the world. If you know of an art enthusiast or a loyal Nebraskan, please SHARE this information so we can have a wonderful event in spite of not being able to gather in person.

Art brings beauty to a world in need of it, especially now….and art brings people together. I hope this event does both of those things, and gives a lift to everyone who joins in. You’re invited!

Stay well my friend. Thanks for reading. Enjoy the day.

—Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

My First Online Show - Request An Invite

Request an Invite to my First Online Show

This year I wanted to do something special and fun for all those who have taken an interest in my art. For a limited time, November 8th through November 9th, I’ll be hosting a private online art show.

The show is open to anyone but you must request an invite. Inside this private event you’ll fine affordable original art of all sizes, perfect for people who love Nebraska and the lands of the Midwest.

You may also select prints of a few of my most popular pieces, available only for this event.

As a thank you gift, you will receive some of our favorite holiday recipes along with links to some of the best gift ideas for artists we have seen or experienced.

It is a one-of-a-kind unique online art show experience. Browse from the comfort of your home with no pressure or expectations. I hope you can come. Request an invite here!

Paintings Headed to Antique Week Fall 2019 - Blue Hills at Round Top

Morning and Evening Series | © Beth Cole

Antique Week, Fall 2019, opens tomorrow - September 21, 2019. I am happy to have sent eleven pieces to be displayed in the Loblolly Goods store at the Blue Hills venue near Round Top.

If you are an antique or repurposed decor or farmhouse chic lover, Antique Week is a top destination. My first experience was a trip with my sisters - the best girls! It was a hoot and a holler and we all brought home a perfect treasure. There is art, furniture, lighting, soft goods, FOOD, MUSIC….and much more. Do go!

You're Invited - Yappy Hour, WAOW Boulder, and BlueHills at Round Top, TX

We’re about ready to turn the calendar page and I’m excited for the goings on in my little art world in the month of September.

Yappy Hour

First up is Yappy Hour from 5-8pm on September 7, 2019 at the Riverside Country Club in Grand Island. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Central Nebraska Humane Society. Photographer husband Gary and I will show side by side. Should be a fun event!

WAOW in Boulder

On September 12th the Women Artists of the West national show, Mountain Aire, will open at Mary Williams Fine Art in Boulder, CO. If you are in the area, you are certainly welcome and invited. I would love to see you.

Meandering | 18 x 24 | Oil on Linen | © Beth Cole

Blue Hills at Round Top, Texas

Finally, I will have some work at the wonderful LobLolly Goods Booth at Blue Hills at Round Top on September 21-October 5th. This venue is beautiful and full of treasures, as are so many destinations in the Round Top area. If you haven’t visited yet, it would be a marvelous outing, highly recommended!

You're Invited to July Art Events in Broken Bow and Kearney

Quiet | Oil on Canvas | 30 x 24 | © Beth Cole

Getting ready for a show is not for the faint of heart! Sheesh! If I wore a Fitbit it would show many miles and stories climbed! Ha!. But….the finish line is in sight and I am almost ready.

I am excited to tell you about the shows and extend to you a warm welcome!

Group Art Show - Wild Rose Gallery in Broken Bow, Nebraska

First is a group show, “Adventures in Color,” at the Wild Rose Gallery in Broken Bow, NE featuring Mary Smith, Julie Kleeb and myself. Our opening reception is Thursday, July 11th from 5:00 - 7:00 and the show will be available through the month of July. The reception coincides with lots of fun goings on in Broken Bow’s city square so if you are out and about, please stop in and say hello. We would love to see you.

Art in the Park 2019 in Kearney, Nebraska

On Saturday, July 14th, Gary and I will be at Art in the Park in Kearney, from 9:00 - 5:00. This is a wonderful art show with a wide variety of painting, metal, sculpture, jewelry, etc. It is usually quite warm so come early and enjoy all the beautiful art!

To A Faraway Land | Pastel | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

You're Invited to Gallery 1516

I’m thrilled to be included in the 2019 Nebraska Biennial at Gallery 1516 in Omaha with my work, “Fallow,” Oil on Linen, 18 x 24. The public opening is Friday, May 24th from 6:30 to 9:00.

My husband, Gary, has also been included with his work, “Winter’s Feeding,” 15 x 30, Photography. We are both thrilled. If you’re in the area, please join us in celebrating Nebraska art!

Winter’s Feeding | Photography | 15 x 30 | © Gary Cole

Paintings Headed for Antique Week at Round Top, Texas

Good Cheer | © Beth Cole | Oil on Linen | 11 x 14

Since January I have been pushing paint to create a group of paintings to show at the spring show of Antique Week near Round Top, Texas. I was invited to display my work by the very kind and talented owner of Loblolly Goods, Marc Elson.

Blue Hills at Round Top is the location of his shop, there you will find all manner of beautiful lighting, antiques and repurposed items for your home.

A trip to Round Top will never disappoint. I went with my four sisters a few years ago and if you like vintage, repurposed items and generally very cool things for your home, you will love it. I understand buyers from large brands like Pottery Barn, Country Living, etc. always show up so something must be going well.

Here is a link with more information about planning a trip to Round Top, Texas

My husband and I will be visiting April 4-6 near the end of the Spring Show. Can’t wait!

Here is a quick little video showing some of the work that will be there.

As always, thanks for reading. Wishing you all good things today and in the days to come.

—Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

You're Invited to Big Land, Big Sky

Gentleness | 11 x 14 | Oil on Linen | © Beth Cole

This Friday, February 1st, 2019 is the opening for a group show at the Burkholder Project in Lincoln, Nebraska. The show is titled “Big Land, Big Sky,” and you’re invited! The opening will be from 5:30 to 8:00 pm on the 1st.

I am honored to be part of this show along with these talented Nebraska artists:

• Patty Scarborough

• Roberta Barnes

• Patsy Smith

• Laron McGinn

• Anne Burkholder

• Alan Smith

• Bruce Thiel

• Richard Terrell

• Tim Timken

Two oil paintings of mine will be in the show. Above is “Gentleness,” a tonalist piece I finished at the end of last year. It is 11 x 14, oil on linen, one of my favorites.

The other piece is “Prairie Waterfall,” 18 x 24, oil on linen, painted from one of our road trips where we wander with cameras. I loved the little town and the sky falling down toward it.

Prairie Waterfall | Oil on Linen | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

Here is a list of all the other galleries that will be showing art for First Friday in Lincoln on February 1, 2019.

The show at the Burkholder will run from February 1 - 28th. Thanks for following along and I do hope you’ll be able to enjoy this collection of beautiful Nebraska art.

—Beth Cole
Soli Deo Gloria

January 2019 Workshop at The Wild Rose

Workshop Demo | Oil on Linen | 8 x 10 | © Beth Cole

I’m happy to share that I will be leading a painting workshop on Saturday, January 19th, 2019, from 10am to 2pm at the Wild Rose Gallery in Broken Bow, Nebraska. The cost is $35 and lunch is included.

The workshop will be all about getting a strong start on your painting. There are some steps we can take before we ever pick up the paint brush to help us cross the finish line with a smile on our face! These techniques are nothing new and nothing secret. They have been used by artists for hundreds of years.

We will talk about simplifying our scene down to four or five shapes, and experiment with value studies using grayscale markers. After that, we’ll complete a one-color underpainting to match the value study. If time allows, we’ll add color and work to get a finished painting!

Here is a recommended supply list. If you don’t want to buy the markers, don’t worry….I have extras.

• Oil paints of your choice (white, and a blue, red, yellow for sure so we can mix)
  I use the following but please don’t feel you need to run out and buy these if you don’t have them.
  —Titanium White
  —Warm White
  —Yellow Light
  —Yellow Ochre
  —Transparent Oxide Red
  —Alizarin Crimson
  —Cad Red Light (sometimes)
  —Ultramarine Blue
  —Cobalt Blue
  —Raw Umber

• Small canvas, 8 x 10 or 6 x 8

• Photograph from which to paint

• Paint brushes, palette knife and mixing palette

• Apron, tissues or paper towels

• Gamsol (odorless mineral spirits) for cleaning brushes

• Sketch book

• Tombow 56171 Dual Brush Pen Art Markers, Grayscale, 10-Pack. Blendable, Brush and Fine Tip Markers (can buy at Amazon)

To register, call the Wild Rose Gallery at 308-872-6345. Space is limited, so please do call to register. If you have questions, you can contact me here.

Here is the workshop flyer as a PDF.

Thanks for your interest, and hope to see you in January!

Merry Christmas!

—Beth Cole

Fresh Paint and a Holiday Opening

Sacred Sunrise | Oil on Linen Panel | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

Last October I spent a few days in Mullen, Nebraska, for a painting workshop with Shanna Kunz. (Fabulous). The last morning, I got up early and went out with my camera to the place we had painted the previous afternoon - a meadow with the Middle Loup running through. I wanted to see what it was like in the morning light. It did not disappoint. The water was glittering. The air was cool and a little misty. And the sun was starting to warm everything and give it a glow.

This painting is inspired by my visit to the meadow that morning. I took lots of photos to use as references, so I’ll be painting more and more of this in the days to come.

When I shared this on the socials, it was unnamed, and I asked for suggestions. One of my friends (thank you Karen S.) suggested “Sacred Sunrise,” and immediately I knew that is what it should be named. I believe there is an unseen spiritual realm all around us and I believe our Maker created light and the earth upon which it falls. When I paint, I am always aware of this and I think that is why I am drawn to atmosphere — that veiled effect of light and air. To me it symbolizes the spiritual realm which also, for me, symbolizes comfort and peace. So I hope this painting, Sacred Sunrise, speaks, in its own way, to you.

Holiday Opening at the Burkholder

The Burkholder Project in Lincoln will host the opening for Holiday Mosaic today, December 7th, from 5:30 to 8:00. This show features over 50 Burkholder artists plus the work of woodturner, Harold Adams.

My piece, “To A Faraway Land,” is a part of this show and will be available there through the end of the year.

To A Faraway Land | Pastel on Paper | 18 x 24 | © Beth Cole

I hope you are doing well and enjoying the festive Christmas season. We put our nativity set and tree and stockings up last weekend. I love the extra special light in our home this time of year.

Thanks for reading, Be well. I am grateful for you.

—Beth Cole
Soli Deo Gloria

Nebraska Rural Living Art Show - Opening Nov 2, 2018

“Prairie Glass” | Oil on Canvas | 30 x 40 | © Beth Cole

Five artists from the Nebraska Rural Living Gallery will be showing work in a group show at the Red Cloud Opera House, November 2 - December 28, 2018.

I am honored to be joining artists Susan Hart, Garald Horst, Desiree Hajny, and Sondra Jonson.

The artists' reception will take place on November 10 at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome at the gallery for drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and conversation with the artists! Here is a link to the event on Facebook.

I have not visited this gallery, but I am looking forward to it as I understand it is quite beautiful.

What a wonderful opportunity to see a beautiful space and Nebraska art! I am grateful!

—Beth Cole

Old Feed Store Turned Art Center in Bassett, Nebraska

Old Feed Store Art Center in Bassett Nebraska | Beth Cole Exhibition October 2018

The Old Feed Store Art Center in Bassett, Nebraska

by Beth Cole

There is a most lovely art oasis for Nebraska art in Bassett, Nebraska, thanks to vision, many hands, and a multitude of big hearted givers. The Old Feed Store Art Center opened in early 2018 with an exhibit of Joel Sartore’s Photo Ark in cooperation with the Museum of Nebraska Art. Since then, other Nebraska artists, musicians and poets have shown and performed in the space.

Old Feed Store Art Center, Bassett, Nebraska

I am thrilled to be showing my work in this beautiful place through the month of October, 2018. With gallery lighting and museum style gallery display, the artwork seems to come alive.

Old Feed Store Art Center, Bassett, Nebraska | Beth Cole Art Exhibition October 2018

Thank you to Ki Slaymaker and Loranda Buoy for scheduling and hanging the show and making everything look great!

Ki Slaymaker, Beth Cole, Loranda Buoy

These artists, along with many, many other leaders and volunteers, have all worked together to create something with meaning and purpose. I am so impressed.

A beautiful Gale family private collection of masterful works is also on display.

Beautiful Gale Family Private Collection on Display | Old Feed Store, Bassett, Nebraska

Beautiful Gale Family Private Collection on Display | Old Feed Store Art Center

I hope you will get a chance to stop if you are anywhere close. The center is open four days a week by a staff of volunteers.

Old Feed Store Art Center, Bassett, Nebraska

Look for this building. It’s right on main street.

Old Feed Store Art Center, Bassett, Nebraska

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.
”

— Margaret Mead

Thanks for supporting art! And reading to the end!

—Beth Cole
Soli Deo Gloria

You're Invited to Kearney Art in the Park 2018

You're Invited

Kearney Art in the Park is happening this Sunday, July 8th, in Kearney, Nebraska at Harmon Park. It is always a wonderful show with lots of beauty to behold, great food and an all around great vibe. If you are local, I hope you can come, and if you do, please stop by and say "hi."

This year I am limiting the work I am taking to 10 paintings of various sizes and a few small ones that are unframed. I want my booth to be uncluttered. I tried to select paintings that I think work well together and have a good atmosphere and mood. Some of the smaller pieces, like the one below are a bit of a departure for me, I wanted to experiment with morning light and how it ripples out.

Sunrise Study I - 8 x 10 - Oil on Panel - ©Beth Cole

We have a new pup dog, Kona Joy. I'm trying to decide if she would enjoy the day, and I'm thinking, hmmmmm, no. Too hot and too many people for such a young one.

Our new Cavapoo, Kona Joy

She is only about two months old. Maybe next summer she will be part of the art team and give hugs and kisses to the visitors. She is a lover for sure.

Hay's Down  - Oil on Canvas - 16 x 20 - ©Beth Cole

Anyway, hope to see you soon. Take good care now. Keep creating! Thanks for reading!

--Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

You're Invited -- May 5th Art Opening at Minden Opera House

Art Show Opening - Saturday May 5th, 2018 - Minden Opera House - 4:00-6:00 pm

There's an art show coming soon and you're invited!

I will be showing my most recent paintings of the land in the months of May and June, 2018 at the Minden Opera House in Minden, Nebraska. 

Minden Opera House Art Show Opening
Saturday, May 5th, 2018
6:00 - 8:00 pm

The show opening will be Saturday, May 5th from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the opera house. I will say a few words about the art during that time.  If you are local, I would love to see you there!

I will also be doing a landscape painting workshop at the Minden Opera House on June 9th from 9-12 am.

Painting Atmosphere Workshop at the Minden Opera House

Here is a bit more information, including a link to the supply list.

Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for your interest in my art and hope to see you soon!

--Beth
Soli Deo Gloria

New Work at Burkholder Project

Unseen © Beth Cole | OIl on Canvas | 12 x 24

Have you visited the Burkholder Gallery in Lincoln? If you are an art lover, it is definitely worth a visit. There are three floors of art - landscape, abstract, still life, wildlife, sculpture, photography - something for everyone. The owner, Anne Burkholder, is a beautiful artist and has been painting Nebraska landscapes for many years, and she is celebrating her 30th year in business, something to celebrate!

I have delivered a few pieces to the Burkholder and I am grateful to be represented there. In addition to "Unseen" (above) the following artwork can also be seen at the gallery.

Winter Creek © Beth Cole 

Light and Shadows © Beth Cole

Illumination © Beth Cole

Aglow © Beth Cole

I will be having a show at the Burkholder coming up in June 2018. More information to follow. Thanks for following along.

Enjoy the day.

--Beth
Soli Deo Gloria