Batesville Area Arts Council to host gallery reception on Friday

Karen Barker’s work on display at the BAAC Gallery on Main

The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) is set to host a public gallery reception this Friday, July 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring current exhibitions by artists Karen Barker and Dustyn Bork. The event, which includes brief artist talks beginning at 6 p.m., will take place at the BAAC Gallery on Main, located at 226 E. Main St. Admission is free and open to the public, with light refreshments provided.

“Tuscany Fall Vineyard” – Karen Barker

“Cinque Terre Ocean View” – Karen Barker

Karen Barker’s exhibition, “Truffles on Fried Eggs: Reflections of Italy,” is currently on display through Aug. 1, 2025. Barker’s collection of vibrant pastel, oil, and mixed media works captures her recent travel experiences and impressions of the Tuscany region of Italy.

“Whether in broad vistas bathed in autumnal light or closer views of daily life,” Barker stated, “I tried to capture the Tuscany region of Italy.”

In the Community Gallery, Dustyn Bork’s new body of work, “dwellings,” is also on view through Aug. 1, 2025. Bork’s series of paintings explores themes of home and place, specifically depicting downtown Batesville homes at night. He shared that he was inspired to “capture the moment and feeling of peace expressed through architecture.”

A view of Dustyn Bork’s work at the BAAC Gallery on Main
“Dwelling 6 (orange glow)” – Dustin Bork

“Dwelling 4 (blue streak)”

This exhibition is sponsored by FNBC Community Bankers.

The BAAC Gallery on Main is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If You Go:

• What: Gallery Reception featuring Karen Barker & Dustyn Bork
• When: Friday, July 18, 5 – 7 p.m. (Artist talks at 6 p.m.)
• Where: BAAC Gallery on Main, 226 E. Main St., Batesville, Ark.
• Admission: Free and open to the public

All images provided by the Batesville Area Arts Council