Dianna Shomaker of Placitas stands in front of some of her art. Courtesy photo.

The Placitas Community Library’s Art Committee presents its second “Legacy Exhibition” featuring the work of artist and longtime Placitas resident Dianna Shomaker.

Displayed in the Gracie Lee Community Room, the exhibit will feature a wide selection of Shomaker’s oil, acrylic and encaustic paintings, including abstract and figurative works. Some of the work has been loaned by private collectors, while other pieces will be available for purchase with a percentage of the price benefiting the library.

The exhibit runs from Jan. 7-Feb. 9.

The public is invited to a special reception for the artist, 5-6:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 20, where she will speak about her work and her serpentine path from nursing student to prolific, award-winning painter, master of encaustic monotypes and enthusiastic participant in the community’s art scene.

According to Anne Frost, coordinator of Adult Education Programs, the public is also invited to a free, hands-on learning program entitled “Understanding Abstract Art” on Sunday, Jan. 22, at 2 p.m. in the library. Shomaker promises a focus on “understanding the internal consistency and grace present in abstract art” and encourages attendees to bring an open mind and a willingness to explore a new way of appreciating art.

No advance registration is necessary.

Placitas Community Library is at 453 NM 165. Its hours are Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m.