The exhibition, titled "Metamorphosis," will open from 2 to 4 p.m. July 19, with an artist's reception at the gallery and branch of the College Store at the corner of West First and Bridge streets.

     Besch taught art for 30 years in schools in this state and in retirement has been able to devote more time to her painting, often in watercolor, her preferred medium. She most often draws inspiration from the natural world, including places she has lived and traveled: Oswego County, Florida and the mountains of North Carolina.

     "I have a need to share the pleasure that I have found in manipulating materials, and trying to portray my own view of familiar surroundings," Besch said in an artist's statement. "Design, technique and meaning challenge and help me create. It is a joy to share through painting and teaching these experiences, but mostly it is just plain fun."

     Oswego State Downtown is open noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday during the Oswego Farmers' Market, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.