Oceans of imagination and whales of tales await those who dip into the Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center next weekend during Inland Northwest artist John Jennings' show — "Paradise."

"The vibrancy and depth of color is going to pull them in," JACC Director Darla Dreyer said.

Jennings' works take art appreciators and viewers on undersea adventures with orcas and dolphins swimming in the deep. Palm trees silhouetted during brilliant tropical sunsets, deep purple hues of ocean horizons, inquisitive sea creatures and much more can be found in Jennings' creations, which span from marine life to surreal landscapes that invite the mind to wander.

"It's a wonderful honor to share in the community," said John's wife, Sandy Jennings. "Art is always healing. It's uplifting, it's all the positive things in life. John's an environmental artist, so that helps in that element too for him to share that element."

John has painted massive murals throughout his life as an artist. He has served as the cultural ambassador to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador for his efforts to educate the public on the critical concerns and actions necessary to save the planet for future generations.

He is also a disabled Vietnam veteran. He served for four years as a reconnaissance photographer in the Army. He saw combat and survived being bayonetted. He also suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

"I'm just extremely grateful to have been able to live in a community as wholesome, kind and wonderful as this community has always been," he said. "I love it."

Guests will be able to meet the artist during an opening reception from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23. The show will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 24 and 25. Various sizes of different works will be available for purchase with prices ranging from $10-$95.

All proceeds will benefit the artist and his family, who recently had to move after being priced out of their longtime Post Falls home.

Post Falls American Legion Post 143 is assisting with the show.

"It's what we do," Dryer said. "We support the arts in our community. It helps us fulfill our mission. The JACC has historically been very appreciative and grateful to the men and women who have served our country.”

The JACC is at 405 N. William St., Post Falls.

See more of John's works: johnjenningsart.com/index.html