Alicia Wagner Calzada | 210SA contributor Local artist Rhonda Kuhlman stands next to her exhibit ‘Did You Just See What I Saw' at the cactus bra SPACE in the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center.

WHO: Rhonda Kuhlman

MEDIUM: Recycled materials, sculpture, ink, paint

BEST KNOWN FOR: Functional folk art and zany recycled creations such as bottlecap jewelry and home accessories. But one of her latest shows has led her down a path of black-and-white drawings for the Cactus Bra Space gallery. Her elegant drawings are layered with Victorian wallpaper patterns and natural symbols such as flowers and animals. “I kind of like things that are a bit almost trite, like hearts and bunnies and birds,” Kuhlman said. “People are really comfortable with that imagery and can create their own little nostalgia.” Accompanying the drawings will be a large “magic beanstalk” made from Styrofoam and covered with squares of mirrored glass.

PAYING THE BILLS: Kuhlman and her partner Chris Ake operate the RC Gallery.

PHILOSOPHY: Kuhlman, 39, grew up overseas in locations such as South Africa. She says witnessing the overt artistic expression in other countries influenced her own fun and approachable style. “I want it to be easy for people to come look at art,” Kuhlman said. “I'm just kind of interested in decorating your world with art, using stuff around you, by any means necessary.”

CHECK HER OUT: Kuhlman will add creations to her exhibit “Did You Just See What I Saw” at the Cactus Bra Space, 106 C Blue Star, until all the pieces are in place for the closing reception July 28 from 11 a.m. to %6 p.m. Call (210) 226-6688. Kuhlman's RC Gallery also will host the Summer Show of Rock Paper Scissors Collective featuring her recycled artwork as well as work by six other artists. The show will take place Saturday, July 14, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, July 15, from noon to 4 p.m. at the gallery, 222 Roosevelt Ave. Call (210) 534-6068.

Jennifer Lloyd | 210SA