Mary Gleckler Nelson, a native of Quincy, Illinois now living in St. Louis, MO, will be the Guest Artist at the Alliance Art Gallery for the month of September. A mixed media artist working with old book pages, paint and oil pastels, Nelson says her brightly colored, whimsical pieces are a joy to create. A self-professed color addict, she likes to think of her art as color therapy.

A self taught artist, Nelson has always been creative. With a major in vocal performance in college, she enjoys singing and performing, but only recently discovered how much she loves creating visual art. Mary credits artist Susan Kline's work, as well as her daughter Sarah, as being influential to her creative process. Nelson also considers her mother and both grandmothers for giving her an appreciation for self expression. Quilts, doilies, needlework, all things handmade, have inspired her work. Nelson says it is her greatest intention as a visual artist to bring a spark of shared happiness in an often dreary world.

An exhibit of Nelson's work will open on September 12, with a reception beginning at 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will continue through October 9. The opening coincides with the Second Saturday Gallery Night, a monthly gathering to meet local Gallery members and see their new work. A piece of artwork from Mary Ann Brinkley will be given away at a drawing to be held at 6 p.m.

The Alliance Art Gallery is located at 112 N. Main, Hannibal, MO (573-221-2275 www.allianceartgallery.com