In Christian art, a square halo identified a living person who was presumed to be a saint. This square halo concept is also the focus for the winter 2023 art show at the Square Halo Gallery within The Trust Performing Arts Center, 37 N. Market St., Lancaster.

The all-ages open arts invitational that runs through the end of February features work from artists from New York, Texas, and England, as well as many local artists. Any work containing a square was considered for the exhibit.

The show is in conjunction with the 2023 Square Halo Conference on Friday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 18, titled "Ordinary Saints-Creativity, Collaboration & Community." This year's conference celebrates the 25th anniversary of Square Halo Books, an independent publisher of works that present contextually sensitive biblical studies and practical instruction consistent with the doctrines of the Reformation. To learn more about the conference with keynote speaker Malcolm Guite at https://squarehalobooks.com/conferences#/2023-conference.

Future 2023 exhibits include an Irish-themed show in March and April that will display printmaking from two new books by Ned Bustard: "Saint Patrick the Forgiver" from IVP Kids and "33: Reflections on the Gospel of Saint John" from Square Halo Books. In May, the gallery will welcome select student artists from Messiah University, and the summer show will focus on the art of a pioneer in the art and faith movement of the past several decades, Sandra Bowden.

Square Halo Gallery is open from 6 to 9 p.m. on First Fridays, by appointment, and during events at The Trust. To learn more, visit squarehalobooks.com.