According to a press release, the May exhibit, "Mixed Media Mamas," at Desert Moon Designs Studios and Gallery runs Friday, May 11 through Monday, June 4. It celebrates motherhood, "whether it’s the love between mother and child or the respect for the Earth as the mother of humanity."

Mixed media artists whose work is represented are: Cynthia Lee (clay), Peggy DeBell (altered photography), Kathryn Nidy-Cukier (handmade papers, fibers, paints, gems, metals and many recycled and found objects) and Ginger Huebner (collage and chalk pastel).

The press release says, “First and foremost, these women inspire all mothers to dedicate time to one self - time that nourishes the psyche and provides an avenue to express creative ideas fulfilling an inner purpose or their own inner child,” says Julie Spalla, artist-gallery owner of Desert Moon Designs.

"While all the Mixed Media Mamas are from Western North Carolina, the artists come from different cultural traditions and backgrounds making the art they produce an eclectic array of voices from quiet contemplation, natural elements, inner/outer landscapes and religious traditions, all with a contemporary twist. Each artist has built a strong art career fashioned around their motherly strength without losing their identity. With artists working in clay, fiber, paint, collage, handmade paper, recycled materials, found objects and more, the exhibit takes you on a journey through color and texture.

"Desert Moon Designs selects a local non-profit to support each month from gallery sales. In keeping with the Mixed Media Mamas celebration of motherhood, a portion of the proceeds during May’s exhibit will go to Steadfast House, providing women a fresh start and a place to heal surrounded and supported by love, trust, education and companionship."

Saturday, May 12, is "Second Saturday - A Closer Look” and includes a demonstration by Lee from 1-4 p.m. and a reception from 5-7 p.m. at Desert Moon Designs Studios & Gallery (372 Depot St., Suite 44). All events are open to the public. More information at http://www.desertmoondesigns-studios.com.