Born in Czechoslovakia, now Czech Republic, Ruzicka was introduced to cross stitching while living in Singapore in 1987. She was asked to help with charity work for a local orphanage, cross stitching 100 small Christmas ornaments for their tree. After finishing the project, Ruzicka began working on more challenging pieces.

The Miniature Oriental Carpets Project started in 1996 and was completed in 2005. This collection of magical and masterful works was Inspired by Frank M. Cooper designs.

Enjoy light refreshments and participate in a demonstration of a cross-stitching work-in-progress by Ruzicka in Studio 4, adjacent to the Gallery.

The Art Gallery at Wilder is located in the Art & Garden Center at 20 Orinda Fields Lane (take the Wilder exit off of Highway 24, once in the development take the first right turn, drive through the parking lots to the stairs.  Building is up the stairs past the playground.).

As the Wilder Art and Garden Center, 20 Orinda Fields Lane, is a new building, for now you can visit the Art Gallery at Wilder the first Saturday of each month at the artist reception from 2:30-4:30 p.m. or by arranging an appointment with Council co-curator Denise Nomura at wildergallery@lamorindaarts.org.  Moving forward, more regular hours will be scheduled. Beginning November 5, the gallery will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 – 8:15 p.m. The Orinda Parks and Recreation Dept. is seeking bookings of classes and meetings.

Contact them at OrindaParksandRec@cityoforinda.org, visit them at 28 Orinda Way or call 925-254-2445.