"LakeSwim" by artist Sandy Treadwell.

"Dennis" by artist Sandy Treadwell.

"Libby" by artist Sandy Treadwell.

"LiftOff" by artist Sandy Treadwell.

"Lyra" by artist Sandy Treadwell.

The Ojai Art Center will present a new exhibit, “Ojai Portraits,” by Ojai artist Sandy Treadwell, from Sept. 2 through Sept. 27 in the Main Gallery. There will be an opening reception on Saturday, Sept. 2, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The reception and exhibit are both free and open to the public.

The solo exhibit will showcase Treadwell’s intimate portraits featuring a broad spectrum of local residents, including many familiar faces as well as children and pets. All portraits are in charcoal on paper.

Treadwell began his artistic work when he moved to Ojai after retiring from careers in politics and journalism. In fulfillment of a lifelong fascination with portraiture, he studied with Ojai-based artist Dan Schultz. Thanks to a great teacher, Treadwell discovered an ability to draw and to capture the essence of a subject.

Rather than depicting the mountains and valley of Ojai favored by many artists, Treadwell has chosen to focus on what he calls “the landscape of the living.” Working in the tradition of classical realism, he uses a draughtsman’s precision to express his deep affection for the humanity of his subject. Enjoy his web link: http://www.sandytreadwellportraits.com

The Ojai Art Center is located at 113 S. Montgomery St. For further information call (805) 646-0117.