A new show at Plaza Diane will feature artwork by Musetta Aponte. “Atmospheric Moments” opens with a reception from 5-7 p.m. tonight (Thursday) at the community arts center, located in downtown Powell.

Aponte paints “the daunting beauty of earth’s atmosphere.”

“This is a lifelong passion that began in rural Wyoming, where time and distance allows a young imagination to explore the natural world and inevitably look up,” she said. “For me, the sky holds an infinite wealth of ephemeral beauty that cannot be monopolized by any corporation or organization.”

She encourages viewers “to look up and aspire to something greater, and even though they may be frightened or overwhelmed, to attempt something beautiful.”

Aponte is the daughter of Chris and Kris Green of Powell.

She was a finalist in the Huntington Art Prize in 2015 and was featured in Bombay Sapphire’s Austin Art Exhibition in 2017. Aponte said she’s committed to producing quality pieces that embody her ideals.

“My ambitions extend far beyond the disoriented dogmas of the current sociopolitical climate,” Aponte said. “In both a figurative and literal sense, I look to the horizon.”

To maintain physical distance during tonight’s opening, only eight people at a time will be able to go inside the gallery to view the exhibit.

Since people will be waiting outside, they’re asked to bring their own snacks and chairs while sitting outside on the Plaza.

During tonight’s reception, attendees also will be able to paint a piano for the Plaza. The piano was donated by the American Legion.

“There will be limitations on how many people are painting at the same time on the piano — if from the same household, there will be no limit, but probably only two or three at a time depending on spacing,” said Katie Stensing, Plaza Diane coordinator.

“Atmospheric Moments” also can be viewed during gallery hours, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The show will be on display through Aug. 1. For more information, visit plazadiane.org.