The City of Lee’s Summit is hosting a Meet the Artist reception Oct. 18 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the lobby of City Hall featuring the works of regional artist Catherine Kirkland. City Hall is located at 220 SE Green St. in Lee’s Summit, Mo.

The Meet the Artist reception celebrates the opening of Kirkland’s current exhibition, “What’s the Point?” In this solo exhibit Kirkland answers the question – “What’s the Point?”- visually through her brightly colored, pointillist abstract paintings.

Current paintings invite the viewer to follow on a visual journey. Kirkland uses spots of color that blend in the viewer’s eyes, which then appear as luminous, brilliant colors and shapes. Her influences are works by contemporary artist David Parker; 19th century masters including Van Gogh and Seurat; and 20th century artist, Vance Kirkland.

“I’ve always liked pointillism,” says Kirkland. “My goal is to create a piece with visual interest that someone wants to get closer to and see how it’s created. I like to use color and pattern to create a journey through the painting. I want to entertain the eyes.”

Kirkland’s career is as colorful as her artwork. Prior to returning full time to visual arts, Kirkland spent more than 35 years in graphic arts as an award-winning art director, graphic designer and production manager for an internationally known publisher, as well as several advertising agencies.

Kirkland has a degree in studio art from UMKC. Through professional work and independent study, Kirkland gained experience in digital media and film/video art direction and production. Other creative pursuits include decorative arts and crafts.

The Meet the Artist reception is an informal opportunity to view Kirkland’s images and learn firsthand about her inspiration and artistic process. Light hors d’oeuvres and wine sampling will be available. Guests can enjoy acoustic music provided by violinist C.T. Thongklin. This event is open to the public.

Kirkland’s work will be on public display at City Hall during normal business hours from Oct. 15, 2018 through Jan. 11, 2019.