Dinah Swan’s deep appreciation of animals is reflected in her beautiful artwork.

Thirty-four of the artist’s pastel paintings are featured in the show, “Animals of the Southwest,” opening April 12 at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. A free artist’s reception, including refreshments, is scheduled for April 14 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The show continues in the Arts Corridor through Aug. 4.

“I have painted images of flowering fields, rushing streams, glistening grapes, and ancient streetscapes, as well as portraits and abstract images,” said Swan. “However, creating images of animals makes me feel that time has stopped and all is just as it should be.”

Formerly of Las Cruces, Swan now resides in Colorado. Her paintings in this show include wild animals such as bears, coyotes and birds, to domestic animals like cattle, horses and cats.

“My paintings depict animals as noble yet innocent and vulnerable partners with us,” she said.

Dinah Leavitt Swan has been a creative artist her whole life beginning as a dancer and actress. She earned a Ph.D. in theater and worked as a director and university professor for over two decades. Dinah is the author of five novels and 19 plays.

Her work has been juried into many arts organizations shows. She has donated many pet portraits to groups raising funds to assist animals.

For more information, visit www.dinahswan.com