Local emerging artist Joel Neuwirth will debut a new show of his woodblock prints, called "Floating World," at SKY Art Gallery and Photo Studio. The show will begin with an opening reception Saturday, March 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. and will run through March 29.

"Although invitations have been sent out, the public is welcome to enjoy refreshments and meet the artist while viewing beautiful and unusual works of art," says a spokesman.

The name "Floating World" is derived from the translation of an ancient Japanese printing style called ukiyo-e. The literal translation is "a picture of the floating world."

"The title fits my woodblock prints pretty well in that they are of images taken from the world around us, but not necessarily presented in a literal sense," says Neuwirth. "Color and repetition are some of the major themes that my pieces share. I like to try to explore and be creative with each of my images and see how many different directions and presentations that I can come up with for each one. Printmaking is a brilliant medium in this way, because after a plate is carved it can be printed on as many times as the artist would like, and it really allows the artist to explore the possibilities. Prints done in different color schemes, as well as taking sections of an earlier composition and 'blowing them up' in size to create a new image are some of the ways that printmaking enables me to work with my images."

Neuwirth is best known locally for his work at Sandhills Academy of Gymnastics, where he has been Girls Head Team Coach for the past seven years. Since coming here to take that position, he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in fine arts from Sandhills Community College.

His work has shown at the College and at the Campbell House and was featured on the cover of a course curriculum at SCC. He also has work on display in South Carolina and Georgia.

John Gessner, photographer and owner of the gallery, was quite impressed with Joel's work.

"His wood blocks remind me of beautiful vintage bookplates," says Gessner. "They are moving and, at the same time, quite tangible. They hold a timeless sense of wonder that is truly captivating."

SKY Art Gallery and Photo Studio was named Best Art Gallery in 2006 and 2007 in The Pilot's "Best of Moore" awards. The gallery is located at 602 Magnolia Drive, behind Applebee's and across from Sears. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Mondays by appointment.

For more information, call 944-9440 or visit the Web site www.skyartgallery.com.