NEW YORK.- Artexpo Las Vegas is set to debut the work of some of the world’s most exciting emerging artists in its SOLO Independent Artists’ Pavilion from September 28 to 30 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. SOLO is the ultimate venue for artists to be discovered, not only by gallery owners and art publishers, but by collectors and enthusiasts in search of something unique.

A plethora of talented up-and-coming artists will come together for Artexpo’s inaugural West Coast show, exhibiting an array of styles and media. Watch out for:

C.C. Opiela - At 16, Opiela began her art studies at the famed Art Institute of Chicago, forgoing a normal teen social life to immerse herself in her studies. After continuing her art education at the University of Wisconsin, she traveled extensively, her journeys inspiring her to incorporate the exotic colors and textures of nature into her style. Working in experimental, mixed water-media on paper and canvas, Opiela creates her expressions of an abstract world in dramatic hues. Recently, she returned to a full schedule as a lecturer, juror, demonstrator and art teacher. The recipient of many awards, Opiela has exhibited in numerous one-woman shows and her works are included in major collections throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Anita Lewis - Born and raised in Los Angeles, Lewis has always had an eye for the new and contemporary. In her studies, she took on abstract oil painting, paying homage to modern masters Richard Diebenkorn and Mark Rothko. Later, after living in Western Europe for almost 20 years, her style was influenced by modern and understated linearity, reflecting her philosophy of “precision in the imprecise, detail in the obscure, clarity with sensuality”. After a successful international career in interior design, Lewis recently decided to devote her career to painting and will exhibit her latest oil on linens at Artexpo Las Vegas.

Bernice R. Gross - Gross’ contemporary paintings evoke the optimism and comfort of mid-century America. Her bright, figurative works call to mind a simpler time, capturing the humor, awkwardness and charm of common family milestones like childhood birthday parties, weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, trips to the beach and New Year’s celebrations. The nostalgic paintings are based on found photographs and commercial images from the 1940s, 50s and 60s, and incorporate collaged elements such as textured archival paper, fragments of antique lace, and vintage jewelry and rhinestones. Gross also paints vibrant landscape scenes, which depict the calm majesty of nature.

Antoine de Villiers - Two profound events at the age of 18 compelled de Villiers to express herself through art. The first, a motorcycle accident, resulted in the death of a close friend and serious injury for de Villiers. The second, just days after the accident, involved the theft of her diary by another friend, leaving her with a deep sense of betrayal. As an outlet for her emotions, De Villiers turned to brush and canvas. After finishing school, she put her university studies on hold to dedicate herself to art full-time, finally being invited to take part in solo exhibitions and travelling the world. She now works in many mediums and styles to depict the human form from an honest and serene perspective. Her art has been chosen for the covers of several books and albums, including Dire Straits founder David Knopfer’s “Songs for the Siren” CD. De Villiers will be debuting 14 new works at Artexpo Las Vegas.

Feng Jin - Jin’s art already holds a place in history: He was one of the main designers and co-production sculptors of the Goddess of Democracy statue raised in Tiananmen Square during the 1989 protests. The sculpture only lasted a few days before being run over by a tank during the infamous June 4 massacre, but the legacy lives on. Jin was a college student at the time and after graduating, he became a professor teaching sculpture and art history in Beijing. Three years later, he decided to come to the U.S. to continue refining his style and improving production techniques in metal. Jin works in a variety of metals and his work represents diverse styles and subjects, with forms ranging from realistic bust/figure sculptures to large abstract pieces. Jin is currently forming a nonprofit organization to introduce talented emerging Chinese sculptors’ work to the U.S. and the world.

Artexpo Las Vegas builds on the success of the world’s largest fine and popular art fair, Artexpo New York, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in February, 2008 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. Over its storied history, Artexpo has helped propel the careers of some of the finest American artists of the 20th century, including Andy Warhol, Peter Max, Robert Indiana, Leroy Neiman and Robert Rauschenberg.

Tickets for Artexpo Las Vegas are available the day of the show at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, or at www.artexpos.com. The show is open to the public on Friday, September 28 from 12-6pm, Saturday, September 29 from 11am to 6pm, and Sunday, September 30 from 11am to 5pm. Adult tickets for Artexpo Las Vegas are $10 a day; $5 for seniors and students. Children under 12 are free.