“I heard the bells on Christmas Day, their old, familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat, of peace on earth, good-will to men!” ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

December has arrived, the most festive month of the year, and the best time to give the gift of local artwork!

This month we celebrate with an exhibit of photography by Lijah Hanley, a budding young photographer, pastel artwork by Gayle Kiser, and fiber art by Susy Halverson, both long time gallery members.

You are invited to join us for First Thursday on December 6, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, with music by Stephen Harvey and artist demonstrations by Scott McRae.

About Lijah Hanley (photography)


I’m Lijah Hanley and I am 16 years old; photography is my passion. My work was recognized by National Geographic in 2009 and they gave me the amazing opportunity to travel to Peru and the Amazon Jungle with National Geographic photographers Bruce Dale and Amy Toensing. My eyes were opened to a whole new world of opportunities in the world of photography and it’s been my obsession ever since. I am in constant strife to find those magic moments where light and landscape come together to create visually captivating images. I hope you enjoy my photos from what I hope to be the beginning of a life-long adventure.

Honors & Awards

About My Show

Photography allows me to capture creation at its most dramatic moments and share it with others. I strive to capture the beautiful moments where light and landscape interact in a way that brings even a glimmer of justice to these beautiful scenes. Many teenagers get a high off of extreme sports, but photography is my extreme sport. Whether it is dangling over a waterfall, climbing a mountain, or going to the ends of the earth to capture the image; photography always brings about another adventure. These magical moments peak for just an instant, and many of these images require days in the field in order to capture the moment. It is my honor to be able to share some of these special moments with you.

-Lijah Hanley

About Gayle Kiser (pastels)


After spending the past seven years doing watercolor, I discovered the wonderful world of pastels. They allow me to work quickly, expressing myself in a palette that is reflected in nature. There is always so much more to learn about art, and exploring new mediums is one of my favorite ways of learning. My father set the path for me by constantly investigating new subjects until the day he died. I hope to leave a similar legacy for my children and grandchildren.

~ Gayle Kiser