New Exhibitions Showcase Arkansas Artists at BAAC Gallery on Main

The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) unveiled two new exhibitions at its Gallery on Main on Tuesday, showcasing works by Lyon College art professor Cody Norton and Little Rock artist Myra Eley. The exhibitions are open to the public until Nov. 20, with a closing reception scheduled for the same evening.

Norton’s exhibition, titled *Somewhere, Inbetween*, is featured in the Main Gallery and combines found objects, cast plastic hands and fingers, and taxidermy into three-dimensional sculptures. These works are displayed alongside altered woven tapestries. Norton describes his art as an exploration of "the intersections of rural identity and queerness, examining how these elements coexist, conflict, and shape a sense of self and place."

A native of Elgin, Texas, Norton is an assistant professor of art at Lyon College in Batesville. He holds a bachelor’s degree in painting and drawing from the University of North Texas and a Master of Fine Arts in sculpture and post-studio practice from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Eley’s exhibition, *Studies in Blue, Hope Too*, is displayed in the Community Gallery. Her series incorporates cyanotype, collage, printmaking, and fiber arts. Eley said the work invites viewers to "see life as a positive experience" and recognize that their “words and actions can make a positive difference.”

Eley earned a bachelor’s degree in commercial art from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro in 1977 and worked in commercial art before transitioning to a career in the insurance industry. After retiring, Eley returned to art and has exhibited in regional shows across Arkansas. This BAAC show marks her first solo exhibition. She also serves on the board of directors for the Arkansas Artist League.

The closing reception on Nov. 20, from 5 to 7 p.m., will include brief artist talks at 6 p.m. and light refreshments. The reception is free and open to the public.

The BAAC Gallery on Main is located at 226 E. Main St. in downtown Batesville. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.