Paintings capture impact of dwindling open land

"Available . . . Views of a Field Whose Days Are Numbered," a series of paintings of a field in North Side Richmond, recently opened at The Crossroads Art Center.

"It began as a fascination with the color of the tall grasses, and how they changed with the seasons, the lighting and the weather," Linda Hollett-Bazouzi explained in her artist's statement. "A sale sign went up, and part of the field was plowed under. Construction began. A second sign announced that the rest of the field was 'available.' Tick tock, tick tock . . . "

Jenni Kirby, co-owner of the art center, said the show is "a gentle reminder that we should be treating our dwindling open land with smart, respectful long-term thinking."

The exhibition runs through Sept. 8 at 2016 Staples Mill Road. Hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For details, call (804) 278-8950 or visit http://www.crossroadsartcenter.com. -- Jo Lord