Western North Carolina transplant and painter Kate Worm began her artistic journey more than 40 years ago after witnessing her four-year-old son’s creativity on the page. Fast forward to 2003, Worm began sharing her talent and education with others at the Hickory Museum of Art as an instructor and curator. When art can be quickly scrolled past, Worm muses, “the joy of the long look” is all the more important; in her own work, abstraction and imagination work together to create a sense of tranquility and transformation. The bright pinks, greens, and purples of Quartzite Creek are contrasted with the typical browns and oranges of autumn, creating an ethereal experience of a simple scene. Enjoy Worm’s work in Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk and ArtSource Fine Art in Raleigh. kateworm.com.