Reviewing artist Eric Faramus’ work, which will be featured in October at the Burien Community Center, writer Lynn Werner declares, “Eric’s paintings reveal the underbelly of melancholy and isolation even as his canvases explode in color and celebration.”

The exhibit’s opening reception will be held Tuesday, Oct. 2 at the Center, 14700 6th Ave. S.W., 6-7:30 p.m. The October exhibit is part of Burien Arts Association’s Pop-up Gallery program and runs through Oct. 31.

The community center is open Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission to the exhibit is free.

Werner noted, “Only as gazers looking at (Faramus’) canvases do we become part of them. We are flung to his remarkable skies, we sink into his palate of color, we are caught in the gaze of the faces of his endless characters--some of whom he draws from the photos of petty criminals whose mug shots are readily available online.”

Explaining his dedication to painting, Faramus says, “We have no reason to create art except that we have to. As long as it is truthful, I am a painter.”

Although he never graduated from high school, Faramus was accepted into the Superior School of Graphic Arts in Paris and was rated number two of the 2,000 admitted.

Also, remember to mark your calendars for Burien's biggest art party of the year--Burien Arts Association's 2018 Vision 20/20 Art Auction to be held Saturday, Nov. 17 at the Burien Community Center. Funds from the glittering gala support Burien Arts' programs throughout the year. Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated.