Three new art shows open at the Buchanan Art Center Feb. 21 and will run through April 10: James Allen French, “Light of the World” photography in the Shirley and Donald Roti Roti Gallery; Tami McClellan, “Colorful Moments” watercolors, colored pencil and oil pastels in the Show Place Gallery; and Danielle Hope Keller, “in the trees with diamonds” multi media exhibit in the Kathryn M. Hess Gallery. The Show Place Gallery will also feature Redbud Area Ministries (RAM) Logo Competition entries from students in Buchanan High School and Middle School.

The artists’ reception will be held March 6 from 2 to 4 p.m., when the public is invited to place its votes for the new logo.

James Allen French of Niles has been exhibiting fine art nature Photography in art shows for more than 25 years. His work encompasses fine art nature images created during extensive travels throughout the United States and Canada.

“Beginning with my original images, I individually produce each fine art photographic print using my professional digital darkroom,” said French. All of his images are printed as captured in nature, with no use of filters or artificial lighting. He often refers to his work as “Creation Images,” which he says refers to the “one related spark that holds true in all my attempts to capture glimpses of the beauty, power and mystery of nature.” He has received numerous awards including multiple awards for Best of Show, and his work may be found in private and public collections across the United States.

Tami McClellan, a Buchanan resident, began her journey with art in high school, and studied art at Southern Adventist University in Tennessee. She chooses the art medium by the “passion” of the work.

She says, “Oil pastels are most vibrant and passionate. Watercolor is great for still life. Colored pencils are cozy and portable and personal, and so simple and versatile.”

This is the first time she has exhibited her art in a public setting.

Danielle Hope Keller resides in Cassopolis and obtained a bachelor of arts degree in liberal studies: art, music, theater at Bethel College in South Bend.

Creating imagery that is playful, rich and full of life, she stretches patterned fabric over a frame to form her canvas, then dips brushes into vibrant, unexpected colors to paint her most inspiring subject — trees.

“When I go somewhere that lacks trees,” Keller says, “I feel their absence.” Keller is online at www.daniellehopeart.etsy.com.

The Buchanan Art Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was formed in 2004 and is located at 117 West Front St. in Buchanan. The center features three galleries with rotating exhibits of regional artists’ works, a program of educational art classes for all ages and a gift shop featuring the work of local artists.

More information including a schedule classes can be obtained at 697-4005 or on its website at www.buchananartcenter.org.