An opening reception for “Improvised Landscapes” by Robin Brooks will take place at Monkitree in Gardiner from 6-9 p.m. Friday.

Ever curious about the relationship between surface, form, light and space, Robin delves into her subject matter then allows herself to improvise the landscape. An improvisational approach leads to the process dictating the next step as the landscape unfolds.

“I usually begin with a charcoal drawing,” she explained. “I further delineate the form and space by gluing in textural elements — bits of textured papers and cloth. When I begin to paint, I develop my color palette in response to the overall composition.”

Some of these works are non-objective abstractions while others reference recognizable forms and places. Brooks enjoys interpreting the colors, forms and spatial rhythms of the Maine landscape. She will often sketch outdoors then bring the ideas into the studio.

Brooks is a studio artist who works in a variety of media including collage and monotype printmaking. Her thematic interests include the Maine landscape, still life and the natural world.

Robin received her B.F.A. in Art Education from Boston University and earned her MFA in Painting in 1984 studying with Leland Bell, Paul Resika and John Heliker at the Parsons School of Design in New York City. Her works in oils and mixed media collage are in numerous public and private collections.

Monkitree is a fine art and craft gallery located at 263 Water St., Gardiner.