Agave Gallery features the work of watercolorist/carver Nancy Begin, silversmith Margaret Berrier

Agave Artists Gallery is now featuring the work of watercolorist and wood carver Nancy Begin and jewelry designer and silversmith Margaret Berrier.

Begin is also a furniture maker, an entrepreneur and a teacher who creates uniquely beautiful art in her Las Cruces studio. A native of Buffalo, New York, she has lived in Las Cruces for more than a dozen years. Begin has been painting since she was a little girl. She comes from a family of artists, including both parents and a grandmother who was a quilt maker.

For the last several years, Begin has begun each of her paintings, not by picking up a brush, but by ripping up pages from old magazines (“Architectural Digest” is one of her favorites) to make a collage of what she plans to paint.

“I’m fascinated by archaeology and nature and have studied the ancient cultures of Central America and the Southwest for almost 25 years,” Berrier said. “My inspirations have many ‘layers’ that incorporate images. Some, like my landscape series and my stone dreamers include stones, hidden images, and multiple techniques. They are almost mini sculptures. I also make simpler silver and copper pieces using some of these same techniques, so I am able to make earrings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. The stones in my jewelry remind me of the natural connections I value and many times remind me of the varied forms I see while outdoors. “

Agave Artists Gallery is located at 2250 Calle de San Albino on the historic plaza in Mesilla. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Visit https://agaveartists.com/.