Every Friday evening this summer, up-and-coming local artists present their latest pieces at Mix Downtown’s The Gallery. Friday’s happy-hour event featured painter Mariana Alvarez.

In 2006, Sacramento native Alvarez graduated from California State University, Chico, and moved into a white-walled apartment.

“My landlord said I couldn’t paint the walls,” she said. “But I couldn’t stand the stark white.”

Alvarez, who had never taken an art class before, decided to buy a few canvasses and brighten up her house with some original pieces. A few friends noticed the paintings, which encouraged her to take her art to the next level.

“I started to call different nightclubs to see if I could show my work,” she said. “It just grew from there.”

Alvarez’s love of color shows in every painting. Although she doesn’t have a central theme, flowers, geometric shapes and wine glasses make frequent appearances.

“Her creative energy and flow can’t be stopped,” said her mother, Anne Daily.

The Gallery will host 13 artists throughout the summer. Painter and sculptor Daniel Mendoza, who will show his work there July 30, was at the reception.

“Events like this really help young artists get their name out,” he said.

Each featured artists will display his or her favorite piece of artwork at a grand finale reception on Aug. 27.

“The Gallery” is held Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. The Mix, corner of 16th and L streets. Free.

To see more of Alvarez’s artwork, click here.

Photos:

1. Mother and daughter, Daily and Alvarez

2. Artwork

3. Artist Mendoza and Veronica Delgado discuss art.

4. Painting by Alvarez