The inspiration for this art show was completed in 2002 when Danielle Hepko and Terri Shimkus, created their first major piece together, “Rainbow Dripping”. A simple work really, created with watercolors and ice cubes, but they feel it is indicative of their styles even today.

Sixteen years later they still create art in their spare time and thought it would be fun to exhibit together. The pieces in this show are a culmination of their works over the years, new pieces they have created together, and current solo projects.

Terri’s fascination with art started as a kid when she tried to draw the Sunday comics; Beatle Bailey, Snoopy and Broom Hilda being favorite subjects. Her love of caricature and design inspired her to minor in art in college and work as a computer graphic artist for a few years upon graduating. Her personal style in art currently leans more toward the abstract; often starting a piece with no preconceived idea and letting the ideas come forth as she works. Accidental art is what she likes to call it because it helps take the pressure off of looking at a blank canvas.

Danielle has a BA in painting and drawing as well as a BA in fashion design. Danielle currently works in the fashion industry and has held positions in costume construction, logistics management, and in retail sales and merchandising. Danielle approaches her art in a conceptual way, trying to evoke a feeling or memory. Always attracted to a force or movement within a piece, she tends to create linear or circular brush strokes. For Danielle there always seems to be a battle between reality and the abstract when trying to tell the story each piece wants to share.

Terri and Danielle’s art will be on display in Dry City Brew Works at 120 N. Main Street in Wheaton starting Wednesday, September 26. Join them for their artist reception on Friday, September 28 from 5-7 pm.