Edmond Fine Arts invites all to a bold night of art on Thursday, May 7th, showcasing BOLD: 4 Letters, 4 Artists, an exhibition highlighting the distinct voices and creative approaches of four Oklahoma artists: Laurel Payne, Ashley Showalter, Whitney VanHeuvelen, and Jason Wilson. The opening reception will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public. In addition to the Gallery Opening, the 2026 5x5 Show & Sale is being held on May 7th with doors opening at 5:00pm.

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BOLD: 4 Letters, 4 Artists brings together a diverse range of styles and perspectives, unified by the theme of boldness expressed through color, concept, process, and narrative. Each artist was invited to interpret the word “BOLD” in their own way, resulting in this bold, bright, and beautiful gallery show!

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Laurel Payne is a visual artist working primarily in watercolor, pen, and ink. Inspired by the environment and human connection, her work explores how experiences shape perception. Originally from Tulsa, she holds degrees in Studio Art and Art History from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Art in Teaching. She lives in Oklahoma City, where she also teaches middle school math.

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Ashley Showalter is an abstract artist and mental health advocate based in Oklahoma City. A self-taught artist, she has spent the past decade developing a distinctive style marked by bold color, intricate patterns, and strong black lines, using art as a tool for self-expression and wellness.

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Whitney VanHeuvelen is a creative director, educator, and artist whose work blends graphic design, craft, and fine art. She holds an MFA in Graphic Design from the University of Notre Dame and serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Oklahoma. Her layered, laser-cut wood compositions explore depth, color, and memory, often reflecting themes of nostalgia, growth, and shared experience.

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Jason Wilson is a retired Oklahoma art educator with over 30 years of teaching experience. His precise, methodical painting process involves grid-based planning and refined masking techniques to create smooth, visually striking works. Inspired by patterns and optical illusion, his paintings are designed to engage and “trick” the eye.

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Artwork will be available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds supporting Edmond Fine Arts year-round arts programming. The exhibition will be on display in the Edmond Fine Arts Gallery throughout the month of May. Gallery exhibits are free and open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.