River Arts will present artist Mark Christopher’s upcoming solo River Room exhibition, “The Colors of Nature,” from May 14 through June 3. This original and one-of-a-kind show features striking sculpture, intricate bird carvings and luminous oil paintings inspired by the natural world. The public is invited to meet the artist at an opening reception from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, May 23.

Christopher, who resides in Cushing, traces the beginnings of his artistic journey back to a high school wood shop class.

“My bird carving art started in high school wood shop class at age 15,” Christopher said in a prepared release. “The teacher had duck decoys he carved, and with his guidance and encouragement, my interest in birds and woodworking grew from curiosity into a lifelong passion. It’s fascinating how one person and one experience can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.”

Although Christopher later pursued a career in wildlife biology, art remained a constant thread throughout his life. Over the years, he participated in wildfowl carving exhibitions and competitions, steadily refining his craft and gaining recognition for his work. Eventually, his creative interests expanded into stone sculpture and oil painting.

“Oil painting allows me to explore color, mood, composition and artistic expression more freely,” he said. “I’ve always retained my love of birds, but over time it became a quieter, more reflective appreciation.”

For many years, family, work and daily responsibilities took precedence over artmaking. Now, decades later, Christopher finds himself returning to the creative passions that first inspired him.

“I am excited to rekindle the three art forms that still carry a spark in my heart,” he said. “Bird carving, stone sculpture and oil painting each present unique emotional, intellectual and technical challenges. I enjoy them for their expressiveness, their healing qualities, and the way they encourage growth and connection. I hope you will enjoy my artwork and perhaps find some inspiration in it, which creates a connection and bond between us, which is an immeasurable satisfaction for me.”

River Arts is located at 36 Elm St. in Damariscotta. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, call 563-6868 or visit River Arts’ website.

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