Vargas brings multicultural art showcase to Blue Lizard Gallery

SANDPOINT — At the urging of his fans and collectors, internationally acclaimed Native American artist Lawrence Vargas will return to Sandpoint for his fourth annual show this weekend, July 25-27, at the Blue Lizard Native American Gallery in downtown Sandpoint. The event is free and open to the public.

Vargas' inspirations come from his rich and varied multicultural background. The influence of early Aztec and Mayan beginnings as well as his roots in Mexico, Spain, and South America emerge as a unique blending of cultures expressed through art. This "mestizo," or mix, of cultures intertwined with his New Mexican ancestry are reflected in his distinctive artistic style, which is sought out by collectors worldwide.

He fondly remembers the "cuentos" (stories) that his parents and grandparents shared through their oral traditions, and he shares his heartfelt reflections of those cuentos through his artwork.

The visit is already being cheered by local art collectors, including Gail Cook who couldn't be happier about the show.

"I've been hoping that Lawrence and his wife, Terry, would be back to our community, and I'm absolutely thrilled that it's going to happen. It's a testament to Sandpoint's vibrant art community that we have someone of his reputation at residence in one of our wonderful galleries," Cook said. "Lawrence will be unveiling the latest versions of his Storytellers series, and I'm very excited to see how he has intertwined more guide spirits to how we pass on knowledge, memory and emotions."

Cook has already reserved some special Vargas pieces to add to her collection. "I enjoy living surrounded by beautiful things, especially those made by artists I've met," she said. "The experience makes it much more personal."

In addition to pottery, paintings and statuary, Cook said she particularly enjoys collecting handmade jewelry. "I love art that I can wear and share with others," she said. "If it's beautiful and speaks to me, I try to find a way to make it part of my collection."

Cook's interest in collecting began in childhood when her family moved frequently and added to their collections from local galleries and artists wherever they went. Part of her early life was spent living near reservations and growing up with Native American childhood friends. By the time she moved to Dover, Cook knew she wanted her home be a showcase for the regional art she loved and the artists she hoped to meet.

"Sandpoint has such a rich artistic tradition and eclectic scene for its size! Because I am especially drawn to Native American artistic traditions, I feel that I've found my center here at the Blue Lizard Gallery. The owners, Roger Disbrow and Shaun Mathis, travel to the Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo reservations each year and do their buying personally, directly from the artists. The staff know the history and significance of each piece, and they're excited to share it with you. And, it's wonderful to get to know people — staff and other clients — who share my passion for this kind of art."

What motivates her most are the stories behind each piece of art, Cook said.

"I feel the power of those stories as part of my own memories. Every time I look at a piece, I get to enjoy the memory of how and where I got it, and what inspired me. It's particularly meaningful when I also get to remember the person whose hands made it."

Gallery owner Roger Disbrow said that the Vargas Artist Showcase will feature one-of-a-kind collector's pieces and limited editions as well as holiday ornaments, gifts, journals, and keepsakes. The artist will be available in person to meet customers, tell stories, and to sign his art from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day of the show. "Part of Lawrence's mission is making sure that his art is accessible to everyone," says Terry Vargas. "We believe there should be no boundaries when it comes to loving and owning art."

"We are honored that Lawrence and Terry accepted our invitation to return to Sandpoint," Disbrow said. "This is an incredible opportunity to experience the warmth and genius of a multi-cultural native artist whose work is admired and collected across the globe."