Art Sweet Art Gallery, located in historic downtown Leesburg presents, “The Influencers: Color and Texture,” an exhibition of paintings by Leanne Fink and Anne Stine. Owner David Mercado welcome these two well-known Loudoun artists with an opening reception Friday, September 6th, 6-9pm, in conjunction with Leesburg’s First Friday activities. The artists will be on hand to engage art enthusiasts and speak about their work. Music, wine tastings by October One Vineyard, and Neuhaus Belgian chocolate complete the celebration.

Art Sweet Art Gallery will also hold an Artist Talk event on Friday, October 11, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm including the artists. Fink will speak at 7:30 pm followed by Stine at 7:45 pm. Both artists will share their inspiration behind their work and insights into their creative process. A question and answer period will follow the artists’ presentations. Light refreshments will be available.

While Fink paints in oils and Stine works in encaustic mixed media, both use vibrant color and textural elements to define their work. All paintings on exhibit are for sale.

Earth and Sky Connection – A collection of encaustic mixed media works by painter Anne Stine, includes contemporary landscapes of local and eastern coastal destinations. Her expressive application of vibrant color and texture conveys a personal connection between the artist and the natural world. The ancient medium of encaustic (a mixture of beeswax, natural resin and pigment) is one of the fastest growing art medium worldwide and offers an unique spin on a traditional theme. www.annestinepainting.com

A World of Color – Inspired by scenes that reach across the globe and back home to Virginia, award winning artist, Leanne Fink, creates unforgettable, indelible images in oils. She is a contemporary impressionist. On one level, her work delights viewers with a bright and bold palette. And yet, in that same moment, it reaches through to the heart of the art lover and demands introspection. www.leannefinkart.com

The exhibition runs September 6th through October 20th. Art Sweet Art Gallery is located at 2 Loudoun Street SW, Leesburg, VA 20175. www.sweetartleesburg.com. Parking for the event is conveniently located in the Leesburg Parking Garage.