“LADY AND THE GENT”: This watercolor by Beatrice Bork is part of “Birds and Beetles,” her joint exhibit with Richard Harrington, on view October 7 through October 31 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville. An opening reception is on Friday, October 8, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Artists Beatrice Bork and Richard Harrington have announced the opening of their joint show, “Birds and Beetles,” on view October 7 through October 31 at Artists’ Gallery in Lambertville. The exhibit features wildlife paintings rendered in watercolor and gouache, and paintings of classic Volkswagen Beetles worked in watercolor, gouache, and acrylic on paper and wood panel.

An opening reception will be held on Friday, October 8, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Harrington has earned a reputation as an automotive artist, while Bork is well known for her wildlife paintings. Both have been members of Artists’ Gallery for more than 10 years, but this is the first time the two have collaborated in a joint exhibition.

“I have always admired Bea’s work,” said Harrington, “and I thought it might be fun to combine our subject matter in a show like this.”

“Like Rich, I’ve been looking forward to this show ever since we decided to exhibit together,” said Bork. “I think Rich and I have similar reactions to our subjects, in that they tell a story and are an expression of the artist.”

Particularly well known for her paintings of birds, Bork is a Signature Member of the prestigious Society of Animal Artists. In preparing for the “Birds and Beetles” exhibit, Bork said, “my mind has been on a more reminiscent and even light-hearted approach to many of the pieces I’ll be exhibiting. I think in these times, it’s more fulfilling to the soul — both to the artist and to the viewer.”

Harrington, too, sees the “Birds and Beetles” exhibit as one of joy and playfulness. “It’s hard to do a painting of a Volkswagen Beetle that doesn’t look happy,” he said.

Harrington’s work is inspired by his love of the automobile. “I’ve always liked the look of the first-generation Volkswagen Beetle, known as the Type 1. They have such a quirky shape and sound, almost as if they have their own individual personalities,” he said. “People often ask me what’s my favorite vehicle to paint and draw, and I always reply ‘The cars that reflect light well.’ The shape of the original VW Beetle definitely does that.”

Artists’ Gallery is located at 18 Bridge Street, in the heart of Lambertville. Hours are Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit LambertvilleArts.com.