Supporting art, fellowship and diversity

Jul 30, 2025 | Arts & Culture

Painted gourd with butterflies decoration

First Friday at The Lake House not only features the work of exceptional artists but also benefits local charities, who receive a portion of the proceeds.

The Aug. 1 First Friday will feature the work of two painters and a gourd artist.

Native Californian Laura Wambsgans began landscape oil painting 16 years ago, after working as the managing director of a major recording studio and then as a sculptor for two decades. She strives to capture the effect of light on the land. Since 1986, her work has been exhibited nationally in solo and group exhibitions.

The Lake House,First Friday at The Lake House,Laura Wambsgans,Julia Aubrey,Alpine Mountaineer Newspaper

The paintings of Laura Wambsgans will be featured at the Aug. 1 First Friday.

Gourds artisan Julia Aubrey began painting when her four children were young. But then she discovered gourd creations while living in Yuma, Ariz., and fell in love. She moved to Crestline in 2006 and, with the encouragement of her family, started painting again. In 2010, she started using gourds as her canvas. She has taught herself to wood burn, carve and weave on gourds.

Creating artwork that is realistic but loose, expressive and meaningful is an ongoing endeavor for painter Lisa Mozzini-McDill. When she paints, she thinks about emphasizing an exciting play of light and shadow, enhancing a scene that evokes a deeper meaning or emotion. She worked as a graphic artist, illustrator and portrait artist for more than 10 years in San Diego. Today she works primarily in oil on plein air landscapes, larger studio work and commissioned portraits.

Each month Robin Lyles, owner of The Lake House, donates a portion of the proceeds from the event to a mountain nonprofit. This month’s proceeds will benefit the Lauri Carleton Memorial Fund. Lauri was a pillar of the mountain community, an unwavering champion of values that sought to break down barriers and build bridges. Her dedication to equality and her courage in flying the LGBTQ+ flag exemplified her commitment to creating a world where love knows no boundaries.

Guests at First Friday are invited to take a walk and visit the Lauri Carleton Memorial Garden that graces the parking area in Cedar Glen.

The Lake House,First Friday at The Lake House,Laura Wambsgans,Julia Aubrey,Alpine Mountaineer Newspaper

The work of Lisa Mozzini-McDill rounds out the triumvirate of art at the Aug. 1 First Friday.

Stop by The Lake House from 4 to 7 p.m. to enjoy some appetizers, wine and fine art on Aug. 1. Chat with the artists, learn more about the Lauri Carleton Memorial Fund and catch up with your neighbors.

The Lake House is located at 28966 Hook Creek Road in Cedar Glen. Call (909) 337-7676 or visit www.LakeHouseCollection.com for more information.

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