Noted artist visits Vernon

Vernon - The Cardinal Art Gallery in Vernon hosted a personal appearance by renowned wildlife artist Carl Benders last Saturday. More than 40 pieces by Benders have been on display at the gallery and for sale since Sept. 23. On Saturday, Benders met with visitors and personalized their purchases. Benders’ wildlife images begin with pencil sketches. From these he completes his mixed media paintings of watercolor and gouache with a technique that he has developed over the years. A dedicated conservationist, Benders has raised awareness for environmental and conservation causes with his art, which enjoys international acclaim. He is widely collected in the United States and Europe including his native Belgium. The Cardinal Art Gallery will be hosting a two-man show featuring local Ogdensburg wildlife artist Mark Mueller and nature and landscape photographer Randall Fitzgerald on Nov. 18-19.