FARMINGTON — The holidays are a perfect time to have a few visitors over.

Farmington artist Rebecca Mann will be opening up her private studio, formerly known as the Rock Barn Art Gallery, to visitors on Dec. 5 (from 1-7 p.m.) and 6 (noon to 5 p.m.) The studio, located at 56 N. Main in Farmington, will also feature an exhibit of work by Mann and guest artist Kazuko Hill.

“She’s a former student of mine who just recently moved into the area,” said Mann. “She does beautiful work.”

Mann used to keep the studio open all the time, but decided to change that in order to help maintain her privacy. Occasional shows like this one, however, help her stay connected to art lovers living in the community.

“It’s something I enjoy doing,” said Mann.

Mann’s medium of choice is watercolor, and her subjects regularly include glimpses into history (her drawing of historic homes is currently on display in the Centerville City Hall) and some of Utah’s more scenic corners. A strong element in all of her paintings is the quality of sunlight, which seems to filter through everything it touches and give the entire world a gentle glow.

Hill’s work approaches the concept of sunlight in much the same way as Mann’s, letting it soak every inch of the canvasses capturing tranquil valleys and flower-filled nooks. Hill, however, has also ventured into more abstract territory, creating darker-toned works that contain hints of nature.