“Point Reyes Derelict,” by photographer Robert Schwiebert, a member artist of Gallerie Renee Marie. Schwiebert will have his work at the gallery during Open Studios this weekend. (Photo by Robert Schwiebert)

In honor of Benicia Open Studios weekend, May 6-7, eight galleries along First Street have come together to offer a special gift for visitors. Each gallery will pass out special Art Cards, good throughout the weekend. As art enthusiasts visit each of the eight galleries, they can have their cards marked. When the card is completed, it can be dropped off at any of the participating First Street galleries to be entered into a drawing for a $160 gift certificate. The gift certificate can be used to purchase art at any of the participating galleries. The drawing will be held at the close of Open Studios, and the winner will be contacted. The cards will also be available at the Veterans’ Hall shuttle stop at the top of First Street.
The participating galleries are Gallerie Renee Marie, 1038 First Street; Gallery 621, 309 First Street; HQ Gallery, 333 First Street; Lindsay Art Glass, 109 East F Street; Milinda Perry Salon and Gallery, 117 East F Street; Once Upon a Canvas, 129 First Street, Suite J; Benicia Plein Air Gallery, 307 First Street, and The Rellik Tavern, 726 First Street.
“We wanted to come together to tell people about the amazing art up and down First Street in addition to the many artists’ studios to be found at the Arsenal,” said Renee Marie Jordan, co-founder of the Gallerie Renee Marie and one of the participating artists. “Visitors can take the shuttle from the Arsenal to any of four stops along First Street, then back again.”
Jordan said that eight artists will be welcoming visitors at Gallerie Renee Marie throughout the weekend with demonstrations, activities, good food and conversation.
“It’s a great chance to meet our artists, ask questions about their work, enjoy a great day on First Street and in the Arsenal, and, of course, purchase original art,” Jordan said.
Seven member artists of Gallerie Renee Marie will be showcasing their recent work. They are Vicki Dennis, Laura Garcia, Stephanie Gray, LorriMarie Jenkins, Renee Marie Jordan, Lisa Neal and Robert Schwiebert. They will be joined by guest artist Nancy Truax. The artists have planned a number of demonstrations throughout the weekend to give visitors insight into the process of painting, photography, collage, and jewelry design. Several other members of the co-op will be at their own studios in the Arsenal for the weekend.
“We also have planned a special activity for budding artists called ‘Make Your Mark’,” Jordan said. “We’ll have easels set up with plenty of paint, brushes and markers, so people can paint their own painting and take it home. We’ll be here to help you get started and coach you along the way, if you need a helping hand to get started.”
Benicia Open Studios is an event sponsored each year by Arts Benicia on the first weekend in May. Nearly 90 artists are participating in the Arsenal with more showcasing their work in the downtown galleries. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. For a full listing of participating artists and locations, see artsbenicia.org.
Gallerie Renee Marie is located at 1038 First Street, Benicia, and is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. For more information call 707-480-5501, email galleriereneemarie@gmail.com or visit www.galleriereneemarie.com.

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