Mulberry Art Studios, 19-21 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster, will host a collaborative exhibition titled "Extreme Portraits" in October. Members of the public may meet the artists at a First Friday opening reception on Friday, Oct. 7, from 5 to 9 p.m.

The exhibition features portraits in various unusual and unique artistic styles from local artists Ryan Phillips, Douglas Anderson, Dustin Strickler, and Frederick D. Swarr.

Phillips, of Ephrata, draws inspiration from books, music, and films, as well as photographs from vacations. Portraits of family and friends have become a favorite of his in the past few years. Acrylic, gouache, pencil, and oil paint, accompanied by a mixing of finishes and varnishes, are his preferred mediums.

Anderson is a multimedia artist who focuses on painting and printmaking using nature and people as his primary subjects. He uses various styles and often uses humor and social criticism as themes in his work. His work is in various public and private collections. He recently retired from teaching art, math, and special education.

The inspiration for Strickler's artwork comes from his interest in human behavior, observing and blending the worlds of music, movies, sports, and notable Lititz personalities. His work includes pen and ink, markers, colored pencil, and acrylic paint. Within each piece of artwork, there are underlying meanings that tell a story.

Swarr has exhibited his art in diverse venues since 1969 and has paintings in numerous permanent collections. Swarr also donates his artwork to nonprofit organizations for fundraising. His style of painting has evolved into a combination of impressionism and expressionism. Acrylic has always been the prevalent paint on his pallet.

Mulberry Art Studios offers free parking in its private lot.

To learn more about "Extreme Portraits" or to make arrangements to visit during October outside of First Friday hours, contact Mulberry Art Studios at 717-295-1949 or email the gallery curator at Stephanie.MulberryArt@gmail.com.