Local artist and Yelm resident Cari Thompson, who moved to Yelm 35 years ago after becoming well known in Carmel, California, will host her own art exhibition in Olympia, Washington.
Thompson’s collection will be displayed in the Thomas Architecture Studio, 525 Columbia St. SW. The exhibit will remain open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Feb. 20.
Thomas Architecture Studio, one block away from Capitol Lake, will also host Thompson’s Valentine’s Day reception and art exhibition from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Feb. 14.
Thompson’s collection of art includes original oil paintings inspired by a detailed style of classic realism. She was taught to first paint what is visible, then to paint what nobody sees.
“With my artwork, I love making people think, laugh or both,” Thompson said in an interview with the Nisqually Valley News in 2022.
As an artist, Thompson has built up a collection of artwork, which includes her original favorite based on a 100-year-old painting. The original “Poker Game” painting that features dogs playing poker was reimagined by Thompson to include Mr. Spock of Star Trek, E.T., Neytiri of Avatar and an alien.
Another one of Thompson’s paintings was of Marilyn Monroe driving a Ferrari with Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the brand. Print copies of the painting were well received, but like other artwork, Thompson’s painting of the two notable figures didn’t come without controversy as Ferrari attempted to sue the artist. Shortly after the attempted legal dispute, Ferrari died, thus ending the potential court battle.
To view some of Thompson’s art prior to the showing, go online to gallerycari.com.
