PORT TOWNSEND — An opening reception for Make.Believe, showcasing the work of three Kitsap County artists, is set from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Northwind Arts Center.

An art talk will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday at the center, 701 Water St.

Friends for many years, James Adams, Diane Haddon and Steve Parmelee have developed unique ways of combining materials to create vivid and evocative works.

Adams of Kingston studied painting as an art student but went on to explore other media, from cast paper to collage.

Recent works

His recent work uses Venetian plaster, a thick mixture of limestone dust, combined with painting and collage to create multi-layered abstract images of great depth.

Moving to the Northwest from Wisconsin in 2008, he has found his imagery evolving. While always entranced by abstract patterns, his current work evokes trees and landscapes as well as cities and the works of man.

Haddon of Suquamish works with multimedia in a tiny cottage in the woods. She has studied fine art, basketry, jewelry and printmaking, but her current work evolves from her relationship to objects with a history. Her works include assemblage of found objects as well as drawing and painting. Much of her imagery comes from vintage photographs and creates a sense of personality.

Parmelee, Kingston, studied graphic design but found his passion in “old, loved things” and the stories they tell. His assemblages reflect his interest in narrative.

Evolution of themes

Themes evolve from his collection; works are sometimes triggered by the objects themselves and sometimes from a significant word or phrase.

“Much of my found material comes from estate sales, where I often make acquaintances with the deceased who can only speak to me through the keepsakes in junk drawers and cellars. Estate sales can be a spiritual place, as well as a treasure trove of everyday relics,” he said.

The show opened Thursday and will run through Sept. 25.

For more information, visit www.northwindarts.org.