Artist reception at Inkberry Books on First Friday

Inkberry Books is more than a place to find current and classic reading material. Owners Gene Hayworth and Keith Waters often include art displays by local artists, and February will feature the art of Niwot High School student ReyLynn Killinger.

Killinger specializes in beautifully drafted, intricate graphite portraits. Art has been a part of her life for many years, and was naturally drawn to it as a child. She remembers going to her mom's Paint and Sip Studio gatherings, where Killinger fell in love with making art, as well as creating visual art.

"I've always been the girl who does art," Killinger said. "I've been the one who's not really paying attention because she's drawing in her sketchbooks, but I found, since I've improved, people have looked at me in a different way because of it. People have always known me for my art. But as I've gotten better, it's been more of, not 'the girl who does art,' but 'the girl who's good at art--the artist.' And I really appreciate that positive shift."

Killinger considers herself a realist who incorporates symbols into her work. To her, realism is very timeless. "I would say I create art that you would expect from someone from a very old time," Killinger said. "A very timeless sense of art. It's realism, but it's all about me."

Killinger creates self-portraiture, and she is inspired by classical themes. Her art has been influenced by Roberto Ferri, an Italian artist who is deeply inspired by Baroque painters and other old masters of Romanticism.

Killinger's art will be featured at Inkberry Books during the month of February, and there will be a reception for the artist at the bookstore during the First Friday Art Walk on Friday, Feb. 3 from 6 until 8 p.m.