Editor’s note: The following was received from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Come see mystical, eye-catching pieces created by a college student herself at Roberta’s Art Gallery, in “Beyond the Waves and Into the Stars,” by Ashlyn Bledsoe. The exhibit will run through March 2 – March 30. Bledsoe’s pieces in the exhibit are full of imagination and fantasy inspired scenes, often consisting of vibrant blues, purples, and pinks which tie to the theme of the sea and space.

Bledsoe is currently a sophomore at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, majoring in illustration. “Beyond the Waves and Into the Stars,” will be her first professional art exhibit, besides having a solo show at her high school. She deems art as her purpose in life, saying: “Art is literally who I am. Without it, I don’t know what I would do. My room is surrounded by pieces of mine that I’ve hung up. I wake up and see it every day, I have this drive, passion, and love for it.”

Bledsoe’s exhibit features work done by using mixed media, with most of her pieces consisting of acrylic paint, ink, markers, and colored pencils in the creative process. She pulls inspiration from fantasy and science-fiction scenes to create her own intriguing scenes through bright colors and intricate details.

Roberta’s Art Gallery will be holding an exhibit reception featuring Bledsoe speaking on her work and her experiences as a young artist, on Wednesday, March 9, at 6 p.m. in person at the gallery. Any guests are strongly encouraged, and can meet the artist, chat, and enjoy light refreshments. To see more of Bledsoe’s work and experience, visit her Instagram at art.with.ashlyn.

Roberta’s Art Gallery is located on the first floor of the James R. Connor University Center (UC) at UW-Whitewater. The gallery hosts multiple exhibits each semester by collaborating with the artists–both locally and regionally. Many of our events will be held in person this semester, with the option of a virtual exhibit. Our hours are Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Roberta’s Art Gallery prides itself on all of their exhibits being free and open to the public. This means anyone: whether you’re a student, a Whitewater community member, or someone wanting to support the artist, please stop by. For questions or further information, contact Roberta’s Art Gallery at (262) 472-3193 or ucart@uww.edu or visit our website.