The Fresno Arts Council sponsors ArtHop, an event which educates the community about the local arts. In this column, senior Dana King chronicles her twice-a-month visits to ArtHop.

The general parameter of the Metropolitan ArtHop is that participating venues must be on the north side of town. However, my naivety had shown through again when I assumed that north means the north-east part of the city, the newer side.

This week I traveled to west Fresno at Shaw and Marks to enjoy The Pepper Gallery. Every month this particular gallery chooses a theme, with Asian cultures being the topic of the month for Aug.

In order to showcase artistic variety, gallery owner, Maria Contreras, hired Bon Odori dancers and Taiko drummers as entertainment for the night.

Contreras believes that all art forms are equal, and she says she has a place for all of them at her gallery. Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance, while Taiko drumming is a typical musical Japanese art form.

The particular group featured was Fresno Gumyo Taiko, which is led by creative artistic director Sharon Fujita. Her and her many Taiko groups perform at parties, religious services and kabuki, a Japanese theater of performing arts.

If they are interested, it is possible for people to join either group. This provides opportunity for the citizens of the Central Valley to get involved within their community. Though painting or photography may not be an individual’s strength, dance and music are possible alternatives.

Throughout the past year that I have visited ArtHops, I have found it rare to see a live performance featured. It creates a lighthearted environment and a kid-friendly event. To visit and to educate others about art and its beauty, the Pepper Gallery is a great place to hop to first.

Besides the performances, which gathered a sizable crowd, within the gallery over 20 artists displayed their work. Many chose to adhere to the theme, but others kept to their usual preferred methods of art.

Famous Fresnan artist, Joe Garcia displayed a dragon and other theme-related paintings. Garcia has made his impact on the city by sculpting the California State University, Fresno Bulldog in the Save Mart Center and designing the Fresno County and City Camber of Commerce logo.

Though new to the Valley’s art scene, Myrna Axt’s art was brought to my attention. She is an arranger who collects different random items and chooses the theme of the piece. Then, through painting and juxtapositioning the different objects, she creates a three dimensional framed image or figurine.

Each piece of hers was unique and abstract compared to a typical two-dimensional work. Those who wish to enjoy Axt’s art, visit the Old Fresno Water Tower. At the city landmark, she will gather together with other local artist at a charity event to continue restoration to the Tower on Sept. 1.

For more information on ArtHop, read the March 8 column Mullins Studio showcases photo techniques.

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