Nature rendezvous at Auburn's City Hall Gallery

The public is invited to an artists' reception of nature-inspired paintings and sculptures by Juan Peña and Paula and Eric Peach at Auburn's City Hall Gallery, 1225 Lincoln Way, on Thursday, Aug. 31, from 5-7 p.m. Their artwork will be on display until mid-October. Call 530-210-5717 for more information. Nature-inspired scenes of California's diverse landscapes have been the focus of award-winning watercolor artist Peña for more than 40 years. Peña wanted a rural lifestyle, which drew him to the Sierra foothills, where he and his wife, Kay, live today. He maintains an art studio in an old school building in Colfax. In April, he was awarded "Best of Show" in the "Awash with Color" painting show in Sacramento. Peña is an experienced plein air painter who has participated in many invitational plein air events. Peña has been teaching art since 1971. He teaches portrait and on-location painting classes in his Colfax studio. He's a popular artist who often is invited to display his work at international shows, galleries and museums. Peña has also judged art painting competitions. His paintings are included in many private and corporate collections. He often demonstrates for art groups and organizations. &emsp;&emsp; Paula and Eric Peach have ceramic and music studios at Peach Arts in Auburn, where for 25 years they have been creating whimsical, musical, mythical and nature-inspired clay sculpture from their clay art studio tucked into the Sierra Nevada foothills in Auburn. They offer workshops and classes in clay sculpture, glazing and firing techniques at their home studio and local schools. Their passion for the conservation of the American River is often expressed in their work. They have worked tirelessly to protect and enhance natural landscapes and resources throughout Placer County, especially the American River Watershed. They collaborate closely with local schools using art and music to inspire and connect youth to the North and Middle Forks of the American River Canyons. Both are active members of Protect American River Canyons, an Auburn-based river conservation and education non-profit. For more information, contact Eric Peach at 530-210-5717 or eriverpeach@gmail.com. Paula can be contacted at 530-210-5951 or paulapeach13@gmail.com.