CHRIS HELLNER  

Chris Hellner says she's one of the many artists that are lucky to have her work in Two Rivers Art Gallery! She says, "I make pine needle sculptures and pebble art, using all natural materials.  I began the sculptures about 6 years ago, after taking a basket-making class. I decided the conventional baskets were not as interesting to me, so I began experimenting with bark and driftwood as my bases. I found it exciting to be surprised with each piece- as I never planned how it would turn out - they just  'happened' ". Chris uses Ponderosa pine needles, driftwood, bark, pinecones, seaweed, shells and anything else in nature that looks interesting. About a year ago, Chris decided she needed a break. So she looked for another outlet. She began finding various sized small pebbles and found that by arranging them, could make some cute pictures. Most of them tell a little story. "I enjoy making my art and putting smiles on peoples' faces!" says Chris.