Larry Greenwood, who painted this heron, is one of two new artists at HQ Gallery. More of his work can be seen as the gallery celebrates its first year on First Street. (Painting by Larry Greenwood)

By Tibby Lerner
Special to the Herald

The HQ Gallery’s new show “First Year on First Street” is celebrating the gallery’s one year anniversary of moving from the Headquarters building in the Arsenal to its current location at 333 First St. Twenty-five artists represent 25 different styles, including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, printmaking and needle arts.

Two new artists are being introduced during the show. Larry Greenwood works in pastels, and Pat Calabro uses a “pour paint” technique in acrylics.

Greenwood has been exhibiting and selling his artwork for over 20 years throughout the Bay Area. He began by studying Architecture, Sculpture, Design and Landscape Architecture at the University of California at Berkeley. He has designed over 35 estate gardens in the Napa Valley. His love of nature brings his artwork to life.

In 1991, Greenwood was inspired to start using pastels.

“When I opened the box of chalk, it was as though a door opened,” he said. “Images began to flood in my imagination. My art is the expression of my true creative essence. I allow it to flow through me unfiltered.”

When Calabro retired, her career as an artist bloomed. She combined her knowledge of computers and art to obtain a Graphic Design certification. She took art classes, including learning calligraphy. The logo she uses to sign her paintings is a version of a Japanese nickname from her teacher.

Now Calabro uses the “pour paint” technique which does not involve either brushes or palette knives, but pours the paint directly onto the canvas. She then tilts the canvas to create the design.

“I create art from an emotional place,” she said. “Sometimes I have to tone down the intensity to create a natural place for the eye to rest. My art is a process. Some see what I see, and that is enough.”

The “First Year on First Street” show is on display through July 1. HQ Gallery hours are noon to 6 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays.

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