A unique exhibit merging design, themes and skills to create astonishing works of art in ceramics and painting is on view at the Irving Arts Center.

The Art of Marty & Richard Ray is a collection of about 40 art pieces of pottery and paintings. There are few that were painted by both artists.

Marty Ray is a retired North Lake ceramics teacher. Her husband, Richard, is a painter. Both are Dallas-based artists.

“We started working together when we got married. Way back,” Richard said about how they started working and exhibiting as a duo.

The artistic couple has shared several other exhibitions.

Richard loved the Irving Arts Center exhibition space.

“It is nice and spacious. It looks balanced. I like the lighting. I like the fact that so many people showed up”

The gallery is located in the lobby of the theater so lots of people can see the art.

“The art installation is spectacular,” Marty said. “I’m liking my work even better when I see it in here.”

She said that her inspiration for her work is coming from a lot of places. “Many of them are stories from my and Richard’s life.”

Mireya Cuevas, a North Lake student, loved the show because it is filled with colorful animals, people, and situations that made her happy. She studied with Marty during her time at North Lake.

“It was fun to have classes with Marty. She was always providing the materials and clear information and inspired us to do nice pieces,” Cuevas said.

Carrie Reynolds was also a former student. She said that the classes were great. “I started ceramics with Marty, and I was with her until she retired. She taught me a lot. She was a great teacher.”

Reynolds added that Richard and Marty are both excellent artists. The Art of Marty & Richard Ray is on display in the Carpenter Lobby Gallery of the Irving Arts Center through Jan. 25.