Born in Pittsburgh, historic center of glassmaking in America, Karen Gola has been deeply interested in glass since childhood and has been creating works of glass for more than 36 years.

Dagney C. Ernest / Village Soup

Archipelago invites the public to celebrate the opening of its new gallery show, “Turning Towards the Sun,” and the start of the summer during the June 1 First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 8 p.m.

The downtown Island Institute’s store and gallery will host two artist receptions for this show; the second is scheduled for the July 6 Art Walk.

“Turning Towards the Sun” will run through July 27th and features the work of Jeff Barrett of Monroe, carved wood sculptures; Holly Brooks of Portland, watercolor and acrylic paintings; Karen Gola of Sanford, glass bowls and dishware; Debe Loughlin of Waldoboro, cyanotype collages; Dylan Metrano of Monhegan, papercuts; Wayne Robbins of Bath, carved wood sculptures; and Agnes Robinson of Holden, stained glass mosaics.

The public is invited to stop into the 386 Main St. location to enjoy some light refreshments, see the new pieces and meet some of the artists. In addition to this show’s two receptions, Archipelago will be open from 5 to 8 p.m. for AIR art walks first Fridays through November; and Friday, Nov. 23.

Archipelago Fine Arts Gallery features artists who work with natural, coastal and working waterfront themes inspired by living and creating art in Maine. Both the store and gallery are open daily: weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, Archipelago Director Lisa Mossel Vietze at 596-0701.