Contact: Susan Hooks, 215-482-7700

MEDIA ADVISORY, July 29 /Christian Newswire/ -- White Stone Gallery sponsors Heaven's Exchange, an exhibition of new works by John and Elli Milan, contemporary artists from Arizona (who also work out of Greece). The exhibition of collaborative oil paintings layered with mixed media includes landscapes, cityscapes and abstracts in which the Milans explore the human condition and connection between Heaven and earth. The Milans are noteworthy international artists with work selling significantly worldwide. This is the artists' first Philadelphia show.

The Milans are a husband and wife team who create each piece of artwork together. Their uniqueness lies in the cohesiveness of the finished product and that together they can do what neither one could do alone.

The process begins with the artists planning the painting together and building the surface by incorporating John's drawing or embossed metal. Then Elli maps out a composition and lays down the colors, pulling out various narratives. John then receives the piece and further pulls out the narrative elements and makes creative adjustments. The piece is passed between the couple, repeatedly critiqued, and finally John completes the painting by developing the color and adding layers of whimsical imagery.

Though playful, the paintings are deeply spiritual. The Lattice Series illustrates the barriers standing between a person and their destiny. The Portal Series is characterized by "windows" in the paintings providing a close-up view of the exchange between Heaven and earth. The Milan's abstract cities are representative of the human soul, always in varied stages of restoration.

The Milans are passionate about "giving back" to their local community as well as the global community. Elli, a board member of Change Point Inc., has traveled extensively with this organization, working in countries from the Philippines to Mexico. During her travels she meets with talented, local artists who lack business skills. She provides ideas and training that help them earn money through their art. Together, John and Elli meet weekly with artists in their community to encourage them to make art their vocation. The couple founded Gateway Artist Guild, a non-profit venue for artists to come together, build community and support one another.

The exhibit will run until August 30. White Stone Gallery, which opened in 2002, represents art that reflects faith. The gallery is located at 4219 Main Street in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia. For more information and gallery hours, visit www.whitestonegallery.com.

Digital images, upon request.