Bellevue artist on display at Pogacha

Bellevue painter Christina Strigenz is exhibiting her artwork in a show titled “Elements of Nature,” at Pogacha restaurant of Issaquah.

Strigenz’s exhibit features large, loose watercolor and acrylic flowers that shine and sway on the canvas, giving the flowers a look somewhere between reality and fantasy.

“My artwork is created with a variety of sheen acrylics to capture the lighting in your home and bring life into your world,” Strigenz said. “Every piece is an original and painted with inspiration, creativity, and the elements of natural beauty.”

With a Ukrainian background, Strigenz started painting elaborate Ukrainian Easter eggs as a youngster. After taking time off to have children, Strigenz started painting seriously again several years ago. She now shows her work regularly at various venues throughout the Seattle area.

Her work will be on display through Sept. 13 at Pogacha restaurant of Issaquah, 120 N.W. Gilman Blvd. For more information, contact Pogacha of Issaquah at 425-392-5550 or go to www.pogacha.com.

‘Big Night Out’ at Vino Bella

Vino Bella Wine Bar is bringing back the classics with its Half Pack Live event on Sept. 5 and 6.

The event will feature Mark Haynie and Troy Kline, who will perform in the styles of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, with the accompaniment of a live band.

The event will also showcase comedians Rod Long and Cathy Sorbo. Long won the Seattle’s Laugh Off competition, while Sorbo has appeared on Showtime and HBO comedy specials.

Marilyn Monroe will also make an appearance at the event, at least her look-a-like will. Karen Motherway, who has been recognized by Ripley’s Los Vegas Museum as the “Official Body Double” of Monroe and is the winner of the National Marilyn Monroe Competition, will serve as hostess of the event.

Tickets are $45 and can be purchased online at www.issaquahbignightout.com.