“UNDER THE BEN FRANKLIN BRIDGE”: This painting by Connie Dierks is featured in “Phoenix Show: Inner Visions,” on view at The Conservatory in Doylestown, Pa., March 7-21. An opening reception is Saturday, March 7, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Phoenix Art Supplies and Framing  presents “Phoenix Show: Inner Visions” March 7-21 at The Conservatory, 4059 Skyron Drive, Doylestown, Pa.

Show creator and curator Margaret Mattheson described why she created the show. “I’ve found a lack of outlets in our art community for more non-traditional artwork,” she said. “This has always made me wonder what artwork might be out there, the type of artwork that artists make for themselves, simply because they want to experiment, or to track a vision that can only be articulated visually, or tell a story. I’ve always found these the most moving and exciting works, whatever the style.”

The exhibit is donating all profits to “Hand-in-Hand,” a program of the Center for Emerging Visual Artists (CFEVA). The program brings together professional visual artists and more than 750 children in crisis each year for meaningful arts engagement, without charge. By partnering with local homeless shelters, transitional housing facilities, and social service agencies, CFEVA provides a well-rounded, flexible arts curriculum that empowers youth to positively express themselves through art. “By donating to this program, we are helping Hand in Hand nurture the artists of tomorrow,” said Mattheson.

The juried exhibit draws on artists in Bucks County as well as all adjacent counties. Over 250 artists submitted —444 pieces for jurying, and 113 were selected to exhibit.  The jurors included Al Gury, artist, educator and author, the chair of the Painting Department at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts; Syd Carpenter, sculptor and professor of Studio Art at Swarthmore College; and Jill Kearney, writer, film executive, founder, and executive director of ArtYard in Frenchtown.

Prizes totaling $6,000 for Best in Show and first, second, and third place will be awarded to the artists at a preview reception.  Additionally, Phoenix Art Supplies and Framing is selecting a winner for a $1,000 gift certificate award.

The public is invited to attend the opening night, Saturday, March 7, 6 to 9 p.m. to meet the artists, and enjoy the interactive lobby and light refreshments. For more information, visit phoenix-show.com.