The Marion Art Center’s next exhibition will feature two paintings and sculpture by artists Leslie Baker and St. George Tucker Aufranc, respectively.

Baker’s career as a painter, portrait artist and illustrator spans 40 years. A skilled draftsman, Baker’s principal mediums are oil and watercolor.  Of her current work Baker says, “I like painting what is around me, what is familiar, because of the almost endless opportunities for deeper exploration.”

The artist’s work was included in “The Very Best of Children’s Illustration” by the Society of Illustrators in New York. She has also written and or illustrated 15 children’s books. Among her accolades are the 1998 Children’s Book Award.

Her exhibit of paintings for the Marion Art Center is title “Now and Then.” Baker currently lives on Martha’s Vineyard.

Sculptor, retired orthopedic surgeon and current UMass Dartmouth student St. George Tucker Aufranc’s work will also be on display. Some of his sculptures have already been installed on the Pleasant Street side of the Art Center. The sculpture “Osprey” suggests the wings of the local bird hovering over its nest of twigs. Visitors are invited to add twigs to the nest.

Of his work, the Mattapoisett resident says, “Visual impact is primary.  It may be fleeting due to shape, color or even strangeness, but it should register, nonetheless.  If the work imparts a sense of curiosity then I would consider it successful. If the work appears inherently balanced then I am satisfied.”

Aufranc began painting with watercolor and oils 18 years ago. Three years alter he presented the first of 15 one-man shows.

After retiring, he went back to school to study sculpture.

Aufranc and Baker’s work will be on display from July 17 to Aug. 15. A reception honoring the artists will be held on Friday, July 17 at the Marion Art Center from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Cecil Clark Davis Gallery.