Redwood Valley artist Erika Makino shows art at Ukiah Depot

Erika Makino says she is a late bloomer. “I didn’t really start sculpting until I turned 80,” she said.

Now 88, Makino added, “Although I always loved seeing sculptures, I thought that only people with a special talent could create them.” But she persevered, experimenting with a variety of mediums while refining her technique and style.

After a few years, she began creating large-scale outdoor sculptures from cement. One is located at the Ukiah Senior Center and another at the Ukiah Animal Shelter.

Makino is sharing her latest work at a solo show, called “88,” at the Arts Council of Mendocino County’s gallery. The exhibit opens on Friday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. during the First Friday Art Walk.

The show includes semi-abstract ceramic animals as well as larger figures carved from cement. From an inquisitive hen to a dog with his trainer, the deceptively simple, flowing lines of Makino’s sculptures often evoke a subtle sense of humor and warmth.

“Abstract art opens you up to see beyond everyday reality,” said Makino. “I hope visitors to my show will take away a sense that behind this reality, there is another dimension, a creative force.”

Working with cement has its challenges, Makino explained. The cement is first poured into a cardboard box reinforced with wooden boards. The sculpture must be carved within one or two hours, while the cement is still curing, although it can be fine-tuned later. Makino’s daughter Yoshi often assists with the bigger sculptures.

Her clay sculptures are fired using a variety of techniques, including raku, pit and soda firing.

One of Makino’s cement sculptures, entitled “Return of the Lost Daughter,” shows a larger figure stretching its arms out to a smaller figure.

“This piece expresses the relationship between two people, one of receiving or embracing,” Makino said.

Another cement piece representing a gentle dinosaur, titled “Emil,” evokes the smooth lines of Inuit soapstone sculptures.

Born and raised in Switzerland, Makino has lived in Redwood Valley since 1978. She has studied with Mendocino College art instructors Bob Commings, Mac Magruder, and Loren Madsen as well as sculptor Flory Chowe, who all provided vital encouragement. For a sampling of Makino’s work, see www.ErikabMakino.com.

Besides her artistic background, Makino has extensive experience in teaching and working with special needs populations. Before retiring, she also taught foreign languages from kindergarten to college level. In addition, she is a writer mainly focused on short stories.

Friday’s art opening is free and open to the public. Makino will be on hand to share her work and refreshments will be served.

The gallery for the Arts Council of Mendocino County is located at the Ukiah Depot, 309 East Perkins St. in Ukiah. Makino’s show runs through the beginning of January.

Held in historic downtown Ukiah on the first Friday of each month, the First Friday Art Walk allows the public to meet local artists and view their work at a variety of venues for an evening of art, music and refreshments.

For more information about Makino’s work, call 485-1288. For more information about First Fridays, call 462-1400

Exhibit hours are otherwise by appointment. Please call 707.463.2727 or email director@artsmendocino.org for more information.