Green Rice Gallery Welcomes our two New Studios Aritists: Marybela Souder and Jessica Surles!


Marybela Souder

Marybela Souder has been creating since the age of three, refining her keen imagination to create abstract paintings and impressionistic landscapes. Marybela graduated Cum Laude from the International Academy of Design in Tampa with a degree in Advertising with concentrations in design, marketing and copywriting. Using her accumulated skills, she strives to create art that is creative, affordable and marketable while keeping her focus centered around the colorful imagination.

"Impressionism and abstract art come very easily to me, because my focus is color," states Marybela when describing her work.

Jessica Surles

Jessica Surles began creating at a young age; taking art classes, designing jewelery to sell locally and creating artistic murals from her own bedroom walls. Jessica pursued her BS in elementary education with a concentration in visual arts from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. After graduation, she moved to Charlotte to begin her teaching career.

Jessica is now cultivating her love for the arts and education, recently becoming involved in two local non-profit organizations: Equitas and A Better World; both provide opportunities for children lacking in resources for equal -opportunity education.
Jessica uses her art to raise money for education funds both locally and internationally.

Come experience these amazing artists' work at Green Rice Gallery, located in the historic district of Charlotte, NC.

Jay Bird in July!


Kia Ora (Welcome) to a New Zealand experience! Created by Artist Jay (Bird) Thompson, this show invites you to feel, taste, see and learn about the newest country in the world. From adrenaline extreme activites...to gobsmacking scenic views...to a proud culture... to genuine people...to just being...this journey will take you 8000 miles away to Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud.

After a 7 month adventure in New Zealand, arguably one of the most beautiful places on Earth, Jay returned to the Carolinas inspired and ready to create! Geothermal hotsprings and volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, rugged stunning coastline, snowcapped mountains, glaciers, glowworms, rainforests, culture... skiing, surfing, kayaking, skydiving, adrenaline. What better inspiration for an artist!
Jay now shares his worldly experiences and strives to inspire others to live like the kiwis...genuine, real and alive! Aotearoa opens tonite, Friday July 2nd with a Meet the Artist Reception from 7-9pm and will be on exhibit until Sunday, August 1st. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in New Zealand culture!