San Jose artist brings wind, light to bear in her paintings

Playing with color

Artist Ayelet Gal-On does not just paint; she builds, layering oil, acrylic and plaster on canvas.

Gal-On’s signature subjects for “Taken by the Wind, Swept by the Light,” her upcoming solo exhibition at Gallery 9 in Los Altos, are white dresses that appear to hang on a line, defying the stillness of the canvas.

“I love the process of playing with color,” says the artist. “It’s about finding a way to translate the sensation of the wind and the warmth of light into a visual experience.

“The layers are both literal and metaphorical,” Gal-On adds. “Just as we are made up of our past experiences and hidden depths, the paintings hold their own history in the layers of material.”

The exhibit runs March 3-29 at Gallery 9, 143 Main St. in Los Altos. An opening reception is set for Friday, March 6, 5-8 p.m. For more information, visit gallery9losaltos.art

Maker in Residence

San Mateo County Libraries is accepting applications for its first Maker in Residence, a six-month program designed to bring hands-on STEAM learning experiences to communities across the county.

The Maker in Residence will lead public workshops, host open studio sessions in library makerspaces and visit communities alongside the Makermobile throughout San Mateo County.

Open to scientists, technologists, engineers, artists and mathematicians, the program seeks applicants with a passion for teaching and community engagement. Applicants must be 18 years or older, live in the Bay Area and commit to the full six-month residency. The position includes a $10,000 honorarium.

Applications are being accepted through Wednesday, March 4. Full program details and application requirements are available at smcl.org/maker-res.