By John Chambless
Staff Writer

In his solo show at Bookplace in Oxford, Ronald Hevey reveals an in-depth knowledge, and love, of places he depicts. Text panels next to the landscapes address the artist's inspirations as well as the history of the places.

A series of works from Fort Washington State Park has budding spring trees depicted in vibrant colors. “Hawk Outlook” has a warm autumn light, and the gentle curve of the roadway makes a satisfying composition.

Hevey's series done at Morris Arboretum explores the spectacular beauty of this 90-acre garden which, he notes in one text panel, inspired him to paint 44 paintings at the site. There's a nice springtime softness in “Morris Arboretum Gardens,” which glows with pastel-hued light.

There are several works done at an old farm property where Hevey lived and worked near the Sunnybrook Golf Course. “Late Summer Corncrib and House” is a warm view that documents the 193-year-old Quaker farmhouse which, Hevey writes, has now been replaced with “a mega-million dollar home.”

Several paintings of private gardens round out the show with interesting depictions of how individual owners have landscaped their own tranquil refuges.

Bookplace (2373 Baltimore Pike, Oxford) hosts “Pennsylvania Pastoral: The Brandywine Region,” featuring landscape paintings by Ronald Hevey, through May 15. The gallery and book shop is open Friday through Sunday. Call 717-715-4775.

To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email [email protected].