Smith kicks off arts tour

Editor's note: This is the eighth in a series of profiles of artists participating in the Slightly West of Spokane Studio Artist Tour set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 30. Look for more profiles in upcoming editions of the Cheney Free Press.

MEDICAL LAKE - Those heading out on the Slightly West of Spokane Studio Artist Tour on Saturday, Nov. 30, will encounter artist Dennis Smith at their first stop.

Smith will be at 609 N. Howard St., where he will exhibit his art.

Since retiring, he focuses on artwork in mediums including oil, watercolor, acrylic, pencil/chalk and pottery, he said, noting he enjoys working with each.

"I particularity enjoy sketching and painting people ... having them come to the studio and sit for me," he said.

His artwork has been shaped by 35 years working with issues that define the worst and best of history, human nature and "what ugly things man can do to men and women," he said. Often, his job dealt with isolation, captivity and surviving in hostile environments.

His job was a "reality check into the real world," he said.

Now, he looks forward to contemporary art.

"Since retirement from this career, I have devoted time and energies into my personal art," he said. "I look forward to studying and making more contemporary art.

Recently, he's been creating more sculptural art, combining ceramics, metal, wood and newspaper.

Smith, a member of the Washington Clay Arts Assocaition, has exhibited at Spokane MAC, Gonzaga Jundt Gallery, Terrain, Chase Gallery, Kolva/Sullivan, Trackside galleries in Spokane and the Clymer Gallery in Ellensburg.