Art Exhibits @ the Farmington Library

December Exhibit at the Hoppin Gallery

2011-12-05T13:20:00.001-08:00

Steve Willard’s photographs of American Flags will grace The Hoppin Gallery throughout the month of December.

His website is http://stevenwillardimages.com.

Farmington Rug Hookers

2011-12-05T12:53:00.000-08:00

The Farmington Rug Hookers have hung an exhibit of "Quilted Chickens" in the Art Space Hallway on the first floor in the Main Library in Farmington. Enjoy!

Mural Artist - Sushoba Jenner - November 2011

2011-10-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

November brings artist Sushoba Jenner to the library. Her exhibit will run from Nov 4-29 with a reception on November 3 from 7-8pm.

Artist and Educator Sushobha Jenner runs a successful mural business. Her artworks and murals are in The Congragetional Church of New Canaan, The Connecticut Children's Mdical Centers etc. She is also a certified math teacher at the University High School of Science and Engineering (UHSSE), Hartford,CT. She runs the 'Math through Art after school program at UHSSE. In this program she directs the students to sketch and color large size murals using the techniques of scaling and proportion. Recently they completed a 10 feet by 17 feet mural titled 'Chemistry' on the third floor at UHSSE.

Sushobha Jenner was featured on the West Hartford Community Television (WHCTV) for leading youth to art. You may get more information and links at her website www.decorativeartmurals.com

Reception: Thursday August 4, 2011 7pm - New Works: Florida’s East Coast -

2011-08-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to introduce my new series of works at this show at the Farmington Library. My new paintings are mostly in oil and are from “en plein air” studies completed on various beaches on the Atlantic side of the beautiful state of Florida. My new series comments on the play of colors and light at sunrise and sunset between sea and sky. There are also recordings of approaching storms and the visual dance between the sea, surf and sky during those dark hours. Most of my new paintings however, are gentle and serene seas. Brushstroke is of utmost importance giving the seascapes motion and rhythm. I am pleased with this new direction, as some of the seascapes approach near abstractions.

Lobby/Art Space - June 2011

2011-06-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

An opening reception for landscape artist Harriet Libby Bitar’s June show will be held at the Farmington Library, 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington on Saturday, June 4, from 2:00 – 4:00PM in the main lobby.

The show, “Agri-art” will feature oil painting scenes of Northern Maine potato fields in summer blossom and during fall harvest, as well as of Connecticut’s apple orchards.

Having grown up in the part of Maine where everyone joined in on the potato picking culture, Bitar enjoys painting harvest-related subjects, whether they are of potato or apple gathering

The paintings will be on exhibit at the library for the month of June. Anyone wishing to contact Bitar may do so at info@aroostookart.com.

Lobby Art Display - "Exploring Clay" Apr 26-May 6

2011-04-21T16:18:00.000-07:00

"Exploring Clay"
Presented by Martha Luciano
Central Connecticut State University Art Program
On View April 26 - May 6, 2011

The motive behind my love for Ceramic Arts is the versatility and expressiveness of clay, freeing my imagination to play without limitations in creating a diverse collection of art forms.

BARNEY LIBRARY “LIENZOS” ART EXHIBIT RECEPTION

2011-04-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2011 2 pm - 4 pm

Dawn Nolan Lombardi is an American Impressionist oil painter who grew up in Northhampton, MA. Daniela Moreno Pulido is an Abstract painter who grew up in Caracas, Venezuela and moved to the United States 11 years ago. They are exhibiting "LIENZOS" on April 16th from 2 to 4 at the Barney Library in Farmington, CT. Wine, tapas and good music during exhibition .

Lobby and Art Space Exhibits

2011-02-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Art Walk (hallway to Community Room) is an exhibit by Irma Barish with works in oil and water color.

The lobby exhibit is by Sol Fridman showing works in acrylic and photography.

The Art Space (hallway to Community Room) is an exhibit by Irma Barish with works in oil and water color.

Community Room Art Exhibit

2011-02-16T08:30:00.000-08:00

The February art exhibit in the Community Room is by The Farmington Public Schools entitled "K-12 Select Exhibit"

Barbara Gibson, fomer director to show "A Dream Followed, Watercolors 2006-2010"

2011-01-05T07:26:00.001-08:00

Barbara Hamilton Gibson, Former Farmington Library Director, now retired, will have an opening reception for her art exhibit entitled: A Dream Followed, Watercolors 2006-2010, at The Barney Library Hoppin Gallery, 71 Main Street Farmington on Saturday, January 8, 2011 from 2-4 p.m. The public is invited. Paintings will be on display through Thursday, February 3.

January Lobby Exhibit - SONG OF WINTER & THE SNOWBIRD

2010-12-29T14:50:00.000-08:00

“SONG OF WINTER & THE SNOWBIRD”
Farmington Public Library, January 5 though 31, 2010
A total winter experience of songbirds and nature

Carol Lowbeer’s whimsical “Song of the Snowbird” exhibit (featuring Connecticut’s winter birds in action) is joined by more photographs of local winter delights in her new exhibit at the Farmington Library January 5 through 31.

A colorful series of winter songbirds flying, cavorting and singing are accompanied by other scenes of snow and ice, creating a total “winter experience” for the visitor. The best part is that the Farmington Library’s cozy lobby boasts a fireplace and comfortable environment so you can experience all that winter weather without getting cold or wet. Among the “non-avian” photographs are “White Tree Spreading Its Branches,” a 16 x 20 photograph printed on canvas featuring a huge tree glistening immediately after a snowfall with branches so heavy they nearly touch the ground. “Blue Peaceful Pond” another large photograph on canvas is so vividly colored one wonders if it’s real. And the backyard winter birds are back – featuring colorful cardinals and blue jays, playful Gold finches, flying Woodpeckers, Carolina wrens showing off and Dark eyed Juncos taking “snow showers.”

A favorite part of the exhibit is that these winter birds are doing far more than sitting on snowy branches looking pretty. They are dining, flying, showing off and landing right before the camera’s eyes! One photo sequence entitled “Shall I try it?” features a white-throated sparrow contemplating a flight from a snowy deck—and then actually lifting off into the air. It is almost suspended for a moment, then lands on an adjacent perch near to its next “dinner.” “Finches with Attitude” another sequence, features bright coral house finches who, curious about Carol’s camera, watch her intently with “haughty demeanor.”

The “snowbirds” or “Dark-eyed juncos” for which the show is named, herald the beginning of winter. They are the earliest of our small visitors, regularly arriving at dawn to break the silence of long winter nights. “They are survivors,” says Carol, and quite inventive about getting their food. They “dive” into snowy drifts, tumble about in groups and find nourishment even when their “breakfast” becomes submerged.

“I was fortunate (and sometimes amazed) I was able to get so close to these birds,” remarks Carol. ”The best opportunities to watch them are really during the stormiest days of the year. When birds find it most difficult to find their own food in the snow, they are most grateful of the seeds and other treats we give them and lose much of their shyness. And I love the way the camera captures images and positions we never see in real life because the birds are moving so fast. And most of the photos taken over the past two years show the birds becoming more and more and more accustomed to a human presence.”

Still more winter exhibit photos include several local historical houses in Farmington such as the Samuel Cowles and Lewis-Deming House and the Village Store on the snowiest days of the season. Carol has exhibited photos frequently in the Farmington Valley over the past three years Her exhibits have included Hartford and St Francis Hospitals, Elizabeth Park’s Pond House Gallery, UConn Medical Center, and most recently, the Stanley Whitman House. She is a member of the Professional Photographers of America and several other arts and nature organizations. She lectures often at civic organizations and teaches a beginner’s course entitled “The Art of Photography” at Farmington Continuing Education.

The Farmington Library is located at 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT . Please call for hours and directions, 860-673-6791. More samples of the exhibit and Carol’s photos can be seen on her website, www.caroleenaphotography.com.

October Community Room Display

2010-10-15T07:30:00.001-07:00

Our artspace features a juried show of the students of art teacher, Phyllis R. Bailey (Abbe)

The students of the Farmington River School of Art, Plainville's premier school of art for adults will display their artworks through October during Library hours.

There was a juried reception on October 9, juried by Jim Brunelle and awards were provided by Jerry's Artarama, Holbein Art Materials, and "Always Bloomin' Florist." The awards were given as follows: Jerry's Artarama: Barbara Scott, first place; Beverly Hollis, second place; Zofia Soto, third place. Holdbein: watercolors, Kim Pignone; water-soluble oils, Georgette Allard; fluid acrylics, Juna Machuga. Best in Show: Edward Bassett, Diana Smith Award: Agnes Wong.

Their teacher, Phyllis R. Bailey (Abbe), will be exhibiting through November with her reception on November 13, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The public is invited.

October Photography Exhibit

2010-10-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Momentum: Images of Dance — the seventh annual Sanford L. Rosenberg Memorial Dance Photography Competition.

We are delighted to share the results of the 2010 competition. Judges selected images that celebrate the beauty, grace, diversity and athleticism of dance. We appreciate the talent of our participants.

This exhibit will be shown in our first floor hallway art space.

July- Grier Torrence, Art Director at Miss Porter's School

2010-06-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Grier Torrence will be exhibiting his work in the Community room in July. He is the Art Director at Miss Porter's School in Farmington.

Artist Statement:
By the River, Skye Meadow, and Paths and Trees are among the works that are based on places in Farmington. A process of kairos occurs by grace or mystery and the moment leads often to drawings, reflection, and studies. A large painting becomes a center for meditation on the present as informed by the studies. A process of parataxis evolves as the painting acquires its own identity.

Helen Galick - Community Room

2010-04-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

Helen Galick is a native of Connecticut. She was born in Woodbury where the idyllic, rural landscape and the company of many artists provided her first inspiration and subject material. She now lives in Simsbury, where she paints and teaches in her home studio.

Helen received her BS and MA from CCSC including graduate work at Columbia and UCONN. She furthered her training in watercolor and oil painting through workshops and private study.

Helen taught art in the Canton Schools for many years. She is a member of the West Hartford Art League. Avon Arts, Connecticut Women Artists and The Connecticut Watercolor Society.

Helen Galick’s work ranges from realistic architectural renderings to soft tonal landscapes. The natural beauty of rural Connecticut provides her most consistent source of subject matter. Using a wide range of methods and mediums allows her to explore many paintings styles which she finds an appealing challenge.

Her paintings are exhibited in juried shows throughout New England.

Her works are part of permanent collections of:

Several Private Collections

Bank of Boston
Simsbury Genealogical Library
Avon Old Farms Hotel
Hartford Hospital
Farmington Inn
Suffield Health Group
Simsbury 1820 House
Avon Medical Group
Governors House Simsbury
Canton Public Library
Simsbury Public and Genealogical and Historical Libraries

APRIL/MAY SHOW IN LOBBY/HALL

2010-04-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

This exhibition is organized in conjunction with the CPA Prison Arts Program's Annual Show held at Charter Oak Cultural Center in Hartford. The Annual Show runs from May 6-28, with a reception on Thursday evening May 6th.

cpa Prison arts program permanent collection.

The Prison Arts Program was initiated in 1978. The Program works within the Connecticut Department of Correction – with inmates, staff, administration, volunteers and contractors – to make a constructive and positive difference in our community. This difference is visible and tangible. Most often, this difference – a change in direction, attitude, possibility, understanding and environment – is witnessed within the world of the prison itself. With the exhibitions and publications produced by the Prison Arts Program during the year, this constructive and positive difference is, in some way, visible to the public. In 1994, the Program established a Permanent Collection of exceptional artworks chosen from each year’s Annual Show. This collection is comprised of works that represent a wide spectrum of inmate’s artistic endeavors, with a specific focus on those created in the rigorous and demanding workshops organized by the Prison Arts Program.

Community Partners in Action is a nonprofit agency created in 1875, which builds community by providing services that promote accountability, dignity and restoration for people affected by the criminal justice system.

This exhibition is made possible through support from:

Auerbach Schiro Foundation, J. Walton Bissell Foundation, Bodenwein Foundation, Concerned Citizens for Humanity, Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism, Connecticut Department of Correction, Ensworth Charitable Trust, Fisher Foundation, Greater Hartford Arts Council, George A. and Grace L. Long Foundation, The Edward C. and Ann T. Roberts Foundation, Charles Nelson Robinson Foundation, and many individuals and collaborating organizations.

Thanks to the Chris Durante Framing Studio in Danbury, CT for their assistance with the permanent collection.

CPA Prison Arts Program 110 Bartholomew Avenue, Suite 3010, Hartford, CT 06106

860 722-9450 cpaprisonarts@earthlink.net www.cpa-ct.org/prisonarts

Jeffrey Greene, Program Manager

February Art Exhibit features work by Judy Lyons Gomby

2010-01-07T12:39:00.000-08:00

JUDY LYONS GOMBY
Since I have been sketching and painting as far back as I can remember, it seemed only natural to major in art in college. After a brief career as an assistant art director for an advertising agency in New York City, I moved to West Hartford in 1984. There my husband and I have raised a family of 3 wonderful and talented children. While they were in school, I taught the art program at the Hebrew Academy of Greater Hartford, located in Bloomfield. I have always been fascinated with color and the effect it has on people’s emotions. I found this to lead me on a pursuit to connect the visually abstract and my present emotional reality with the current tumultuous times in which we live. This has enabled me to create a fusion of color, shape, and design. My fascination with the effects of color on visual realities aids in igniting my imagination and my actual paintings. I hope to inspire the viewer with the same sense of excitement and urgency I feel as I create these images.

Rug Hooking Handi-Craft Showcased in Lobby

2010-01-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

Talented rug hookers of Farmington have created a delightful and whimsical display for all to enjoy.

December Art Show

2009-11-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

Novmeber Exhibit - Don Axleroad

2009-11-11T11:22:00.000-08:00

The Minotaur Story, Mythological Beasts, and the Realities of Aging”, three exhibitions of prints and paintings by Donald Axleroad, Nov. 3 through November 27. Reception, Saturday, November 7, 3 to 5 p.m.; Artist walk & Talk, 4 p.m.

October Artist in Lobby/Hall - Whitney Boyajian

2009-09-29T10:54:00.001-07:00

Whitney Boyajian - October Photography Exhibit

Have you ever touched a zebra? Or watched a lightning storm in the middle of the desert? These are just some of the experiences photographer Whitney Boyajian has captured on her camera.

Whitney has always been interested in photography, along with learning about other cultures. She also enjoys traveling around the world to take one-of-a-kind photographs. Her favorite things to take pictures of are landscapes and animals. Nikon digital-SLR cameras are used to capture her unique images.

She graduated with a degree in Anthropology from Central Connecticut State University. She also traveled to Costa Rica several times and did extensive research there, producing a paper about daily life and culture through photography. In addition, Whitney presented a slideshow to show the Costa Rican community all the hard work her and volunteers did on a service learning project.

Her pictures will be displayed throughout the month of October in the lobby and corridor gallery of the Farmington Library. There will be a reception on Saturday, October 3rd from 2 - 4pm to kick off the exhibit. The reception is free and open to all, refreshments will be served. Kids welcome, as well as any questions. Come see her unique photographs – there’s something for everyone!

Community Room 9-2009

2009-09-11T12:21:00.001-07:00

The Farmington Valley Arts Center coalition is presenting this September's exhibit. Their bios and statements are below.

Kevin Mihaly - Mihaly Portrait Design
Kevin creates individualized portraits that reveal the subject’s unique spirit. His easy going style, attention to detail and specialized customer service allow him to make the entire photographic experience an enjoyable one. Kevin captures that distinctive spirit in every photograph, resulting in a unique work of art, finished on the finest paper or canvas and masterfully matted and framed. Mihaly Portrait Design provides studio and on location services for children, families, engagements, high school seniors, reunions, maternity, fashion, corporate, events and celebrations. We also have a wide selection of Asian landscapes. Prior to the opening of his current studio in Avon, Connecticut, Kevin’s studio was located in Tokyo, Japan where his work was featured in Asian and European magazines. His work is also displayed in Japanese homes and galleries and enjoyed by families around the world. Kevin earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York and London, England and he received extensive photographic training at the Hallmark Institute of Photography in Massachusetts. Previously, Kevin worked for ESPN. He joined the network when it was a fledgling two year old organization and for 20 years worked within the production department contributing to achieving the growth and reputation ESPN enjoys today. During his tenure with ESPN, Kevin was honored with three Emmy awards recognizing his ability to tell stories by using creative visual elements along with meaningful narrative.
Harriet Winograd
I have always been an artist. Professionally, this has taken me down many paths. Dress Designer (hated the industry), Basket Maker (slow work, no money), Art Teacher (loved it and I was good), Art Historian (needed a doctorate), Graphic Designer (computer-phobic), Jewelry Maker (passing fancy), Art Administrator (I was terrible), Painter/Sculptor (love it, need more discipline), Art Therapist (my present career, is wonderful!). It has been a bumpy and exciting ride (especially for someone who doesn’t like rollercoasters).
Sandy Welch
Sandy is the consummate artist, who consistently endeavors to catch the essence of her subject, be it the pose of a fashionista, a sun-drenched luxurious meadow, or a coquettish shoe. Painting is her pulse, and her canvasses POP with provocative color and a flirtatious style. Sandy attended the Cleveland Institute of Art and has studied with professional artists, Bob Noreika, Beth Ellis, Charles Slovek, Stuart Shils and Ilona Levitz, among others. Sandy has exhibited at the Fisher Gallery at the Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, Chase Gallery at the Jewish Community Center, West Hartford, West Hartford Art League, Asylum Hill Congregational Church, Hartford Stage, Real Art Ways, On Twenty, and the New Britain Museum of American Art. Sandy has been featured in the Hartford Courant numerous times, West Hartford Public Television, Farmington Valley Arts Center Connections, and Artist Magazine’s featured artist. “Painting is vital to my life. I paint from a youthful, fresh, feminine and passionate perspective. Summer is my mirror, and fashion is my muse. My palette is filled with the delicious colors of summer. The many faces and inner beauty of women fascinate me. I’m excited by the beauty that surrounds me. This is how I choose to create my life and my art.”
Deborah Wadsworth
Deborah is a professional and award winning artist and art instructor who lives in a small historic town in Connecticut. Her focus and passion is related to the artistic development of the beginner painter and their continued artistic success. Her working studio at the Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT is a lovely, quiet and inspiring place. At least twenty other professional artists work there as well. The studios are open year round to the visiting public and offers two seasonal openings in the spring and winter months.
Claire Fish
Claire is primarily a landscape painter working in oils and acrylic paints. She resides in Avon with her husband Robert and has a studio at the Farmington Valley Art Center in Avon. She raised a family of four, taught school, worked at CIGNA and for the past ten years has devoted her days to painting and creating monotypes. She has taken many classes and workshops with local and nationally known artists to further her knowledge of the painting process. She paints landscapes with rolling hills and farms. During the cold winter months she brings fresh flowers to her studio to paint still lives. Claire is living her dream to paint beautiful, peaceful paintings. She has shown her work at many juried shows throughout the state and has been the recipient of awards for her work. She has had solo shows at CHUBB, Trinity College, Town and County, Bin 228 and Piccolo Arancio.

Reception Invitation in September

2009-08-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

September 2009 - Small Gallery and Lobby

2009-08-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

Joanne Norr's reception will be from 2-4pm on Saturday, September 12.

Joanne C. Norr received a Bachelors in Education with a Concentrate in Art from Central Connecticut State College and a MALS in Art from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. She worked as a Medical Illustrator for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Newington, CT, and in San Diego, CA, and is currently retired. A Connecticut native and now residing in Farmington, CT, she previously lived in San Diego, CA, and in Kimberling City, MO, where she was last a member and exhibitor of the Table Rock Art Guild in southern Missouri. Recently, she has exhibited at the Guilford Library and at the Members Show at the New Britain Museum of American Art.

Joanne currently enjoys working in various media, notably oils and watercolor, digital collages in photoshop, and mixed media and materials collages.

July/August Exhibit At Barney Library

2009-07-23T15:57:00.001-07:00

bit features local artists

The Barney Library Hoppin Gallery will feature the art of Dawn Nolan-Lombardi, Jane W. Maciel, and Catherine Noujaim thru August 13, 2009. The exhibit includes the colors and textures of food and wine painted in rich oils, the drawings and small watercolors of daily memories, and ceramic handwork.

A sneak preview of these creations starts on July 27, 2009. The public is invited to attend a special arts celebration with music by Crescendo in The Reading Room of The Barney Library at the "Meet The Artists" reception on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Celebrate America this July with Gary Kollberg's Exhibit at the Farmington Library

2009-07-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Celebrate July and Independence day with the latest exhibit at the Farmington Library. Artist Gary Kollberg's exhibit features collages and paintings that celebrate America. His complex collages feature antiques and Americana collectibles.

Gary Kollberg is largely self-taught, although he studied with Ruth Van Sickle Ford at the Art Institute of Chicago in 1959. He graduated with honors from the Parsons School of Design degree program with New York University.

In the early 1960's Kollberg entered the field of Graphic Design as Art Director at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. He was responsible for the complete redesign of the Institute Magazine and technical journals as well as promotional material.

Kollberg expanded his visibility in the design field with positions such as Design Director with important firms such as Raymond Loewy in New York City, where he was responsible for package design with clients including Nabisco, Brown Foreman, and Corporate Identity Programs for the United States Postal Service, Chubb Insurance, Northwest Airlines, Norfolk Scope, Naussau Coliseum, Exxon and various banks.

Mr. Kollberg retired in 2001 and continues to devote enjoyable time to Watercolor painting, and other creative outlets such as Structural Assemblages and Wood Carving.

July Art Exhibits

2009-07-08T13:18:00.001-07:00

Lobby & Corridor Gallery: A Photography exhibit by Wendy Rosenberg, featuring horticultural photography of plants, flowers and animals

Community Room: A Patriotic Art Exhibit in honor of Independence Day, featuring Patriotic collages and drawings by Gary Kohlberg

June community Room Exhibit

2009-05-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

An Art Exhibit sponsored by Fermata, a non-profit artists aid organization, featuring children's drawings from Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Latvia and Bulgaria. The overall mission of the Fermata Corporation is to aid in the preservation of peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation. The model for achieving this is through the synthesis of art, architecture, philosophy and poetry. Fermata promotes and encourages true intercultural dialogue between countries, through which the representatives of different countries can discover shared values and spiritual commonality.

June Lobby Exhibit

2009-05-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

A Photography exhibit by Wendy Rosenberg, featuring horticultural photography of plants, flowers and animals.

Wendy is a self taught photographer and also a University of Connecticut certified Master Gardener. She has combined these two disciplines and created a photo exhibit of natural images directly from her own back yard. From the horticultural perspective she has developed a peaceful yet bustling natural habitat with a vast array of plants, flowers and water features which attract many diverse species. Photographically she has captured many unusual and unseen everyday creatures and flora right outside her door. All photos are true-to-life and never digitally or computer enhanced. A Nikon digital-SLR camera was used for all photos.

May Art Exhibit: Linda Webber "Hanging Art"

2009-05-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

During the month of May, the Farmington Library will feature the artwork of West Hartford Artist Linda Webber. Her works will be showcased in the library lobby, and in the corridor gallery.

Linda received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Boston University. She has exhibited in shows and galleries across New England. She currently serves as Art Currator for the the University of Connecticut Heath Center Gallery, and works as a state licensed interior designer.

A reception to celebrate the opening of her show titled "Hanging Art" is scheduled for Saturday May 2nd from 3-5pm. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will feature refreshments, and a brief talk by the artist.

March Exhibits at the Farmington Library

2009-03-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Lobby & Community Room: A joint exhibit by artists William E. Tarn and Justine Coleman.

William Tarn is a member of various art associations including Lyme Art Association, Kent Art Association, Gallery 53 in Meriden, The Art League of New Britain, Southington Arts and Crafts Association and Wintonbury Art League.

His subject matter includes New England landscapes, and local Farmington Valley landscapes. His paints in oil and acrylic, and has won numerous awards and shown paintings in libraries and galleries state wide. William Tarn enjoys painting in his studio, and plein air painting.

Justine Coleman has been a visual artist, mostly in watercolors for almost thirty years. She enjoys painting bright, colorful subjects, including florals, landscapes, and historical buildings. She has taught watercolor painting classes at Elderhostel workshops and at several community based art programs in the Farmington Valley. She is a member of the Connecticut Watercolor Society. Over the years, her artwork has been recognized for awards, most recently , First Place in Watercolors at the 2008 Kent Art Association Spring Show.

Corridor: Images of Nepal - Photography by Evan Cowles

"Images of Nepal" by Evan Cowles will run through the end of March. Farmington resident Evan Cowles trekked around the Manaslu circut, following the ancient trade route from the Budhi Gandaki river, proceeding over the snow covered Larke La Pass, with an altitude of 16,000 feet, and ending in Tibet. His breathtaking photographs document the journey.

Cowles' lecture, and artist reception, held on February 25th drew an extensive list of guests and library patrons.

Art Exhibits During the Month of February:

2009-01-31T13:29:00.000-08:00

Lobby: The photography of Carol Lowbeer, Carol Lowbeer is a member of the New England Professional Photography Association, the Charter Oak Photographic Society of West Hartford and several other organizations. She owns Caroleena Photography & Visual Arts llc in Farmington.

Corridor: "Images of Nepal" by Evan Cowles. Farmington resident Evan Cowles trekked around the Manaslu circut, following the ancient trade route from the Budhi Gandaki river, proceeding over the snow covered Larke La Pass, with an altitude of 16,000 feet, and ending in Tibet. His breathtaking photographs document the journey.

Community Room: An exhibit of work by the Farmington High School faculty and alumni.

Joy Floyd: Collage Artist of Found Materials

2008-12-17T17:27:00.000-08:00

Joy Floyd: Lobby Exhibit Through January 2009

Fabric, paper, wood, metal, shells, feathers are some of the materials Joy uses as a collage artist. The unique history of a found piece brings an element of beauty, that, in combination with other found materials, challenges the artist to offer it anew to the world. Textures, shapes and colors are Joy's focus in working out the puzzle of pieces in each collage.

"Finding a beautiful fabric or disgarded paper, some rusted metal or scarred wood will inspire the outcome of a collage more than my preconceived ideas. My goal is to honor the integrity of the old materials while presenting them in a new life."

-Joy Floyd

Barney Library - Mario M. Pires - Visions From The Mundane Traveler

2008-11-29T10:09:00.000-08:00

The Art Exhibit of Mario M. Pires, Visions From The Mundane Traveler: Capturing Society's Shared Experiences, will open with a reception on Saturday, December 6 from 2-4 p.m. at The Barney Library, 71 Main Street, Farmington. The paintings will be on display through December 30th, 2008. The artist's statement is below.

Artist Statement

The works in this series focus on a study based on shared experiences in modern American society. There are similar occurrences, be they significant or minor, that most of contemporary American society experience (at one point or another) in their lives. The realization of this connection and parallel of experiences has fostered a motivation to pursue an investigation on this theme. Similar to the intentions of the American artist Edward Hopper, I have explored and created images of everyday occurrences, at times even focusing on common happenings. By exposing a moment in time, I will ask the viewing audience to realize some of the ordinary, yet interesting, images they are connected to in a common and comfortable way. My imagery addresses the mundane experiences of the common traveler and commuter. Many individuals spend a considerable amount of time moving from one place to another. Sometimes these experiences of traveling become so monotonous that we do not even know how we get to our destination. I intend to communicate to the viewer that life is filled with interesting experiences, even if we only capture a glimpse of what had happened.

Hookers in the Library!

2008-11-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

(Rug Hookers, that is)

Lobby Exhibit of Rug Hooking Courtesy of the Farmington Hookers

Most civilized Farmington ladies would not appreciate being called a “hooker”. However, Farmington residents Barbara Coppen, Jeannie Otulak, Betty Kelly and their group of Farmington Rug Hookers are proud to be identified by this scandalous term. In fact, they get quite a laugh about it.

The group of Farmington Rug Hookers, affectionately dubbed as “The Thursday Morning Hookers” by library staff, has been meeting to hook rugs for over 25 years. The group currently meets every Thursday morning in a library board room.

According to group members, the art of rug hooking is enjoying its biggest renaissance since the 1940s and 50s. Invented out of necessity to cover and warm bare floors, the early American craft has managed to evolve while remaining true to its roots. Traditionally hooked rugs are created out of wool strips, hooked into specific patterns and designs.

The Farmington Thursday Morning Hookers are exhibiting a collection of their rugs, in the lobby of the Farmington Library through the month of November. These rugs, known as “challenge rugs” are each based from the same pattern. However, every hooker must interpret the pattern in her own way. The final result? Every rug is entirely different and unique. The colors are different, the styles are different, the techniques are different in each rug.

Anyone interested in learning how to hook, or attending the Thursday morning hookers group, is encouraged to contact the library.

Quattro Ceramic Group: November Show and Sale at Barney Library

2008-10-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

The Barney Library, 71 Main Street, Farmington, is featuring the ceramic creations of the Quattro Ceramic Group in thier Hoppin Gallery from November 8 - 23.

10% of proceeds from this sale will be donated to the Multiple Sclerosis Research Fund.

The Quattro Ceramic Group is a collective of experienced local artists: Tom Zaccheo, a retired physician from Farmington, has studied at Wesleyan, The Farmington Arts Center and Central Connecticut State University and has participated in a number of exhibitions. Jenny Gonzalez from Bristol, was introduced to ceramics at Manchester Community College. She then went on to earn a degree in fine arts from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in Art Education. Jeremey Fioravanti of Southington has studied ceramics and sculpture at CCSU and is currently working on a Master’s degree with a concentration in ceramics and sculpture. Pedro Centeno of New Britain, has also exhibited in a number of shows including the State House and the New and has a BA with a concentration in ceramics from CCSU. All have been intrigued and inspired by the ever changing experience and satisfaction of working with clay.

The Quattro Group show consists of a variety of works from wall hangings, sculptural and utilitarian pieces, to framed ceramic paintings of local scenes and non-representational designs, plus stoneware bird feeders in castle shapes. Ten percent of any sales of items from the exhibit will be donated to the Multiple Sclerosis Research Fund.

These multi-talented artists will host an opening celebration of their works with refreshments on Saturday, November 8 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Barney Library which is open to the public.

Dors Weiner to Transform Farmington Library: Major Art Installation Titled “Whispers at the Library”

2008-10-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

The month of November will be an exciting and colorful month for the Farmington Library! Artist Doris Weiner will transform the library’s community room during the month of November with her major site-specific art installation titled “Whispers at the Library.”

Doris Weiner is a pioneer in the field of modern art. She works with materials such as metal, fiberglass, wood, neon light, LED lighting, robotics, video, computer projectors, and recorded sound.

She has exhibited in corporations and major galleries in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Santa Monica and Montreal. Her work is featured in corporate and private collections nationwide, and in a variety of museums and shows, including the Danforth Museum, the Fitchburg Art Museum, the Whistler Art Museum, the Decordova Museum, ArtExpo New York, the Boston Design Center, the Design Center of Florida, and the National Arts Club.

What is in store for Library Patrons during the month of November? Patrons can expect to be awed and amazed by the scope of this exceptional installation. Library space will be transformed into an environment of immersive virtual reality and sensory experience involving living walls, computer generated puddles of color, reflections and refractions of neon light, experimental sound and video/audio recordings. This installation promises to be a powerful expression, raising questions about the future of art, technology and place, ultimately challenging the conventional relationship between the viewer and the piece of art.

A catered reception – with wine & cheese – will be held on Saturday November 1st from 12 -4pm. This event is free and open to the public. Doris Weiner will present an artist talk/discussion of the installation at 2:30 pm on November 1st. More information on artist Doris Weiner can be obtained at: http://www.sandyknollstudios.com/

For more information on this program, contact Sara Shea, Marketing Coordinator or Hal Bright, Head of Adult/Information Services at: (860) 673-6791. Please R.S.V.P. to if you plan to attend the November 1st Reception.

Donald Moss Exhibit in Library Lobby

2008-10-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

Donald Moss has extensive experience as a former art designer for Sports Illustrated Magazine

March Art Exhibit Reception

2008-03-28T08:48:00.003-07:00

What a great turn out for the March Art Reception! Thank you to everyone who contributed to make it a success! Congratulations to featured artists Heidi Olson, Chris O'Herron, Debbie Leonard, Carol Lowbeer, John Squire, and Kris Dezzani.

MARCH EXHIBIT

2008-03-19T15:52:00.000-07:00

The Farmington Library is honored to showcase a group
exhibit of artwork in the community room and hallway
gallery. The exhibit features the work of several local
Farmington Valley artists - John Squire, Chris O'Herron,
Kris Dezzani, Debbie Leonard, Heidi Olson & Carol Lowbeer.
A reception will be held on Thursday, March 27th, 6:30-9 pm.

DECEMBER EXHIBIT

2007-12-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Three Barns - by Thomas Mayer

Field Bouquet - by Doe Bartlett

The Mill - by Mike Berlinski

Fallen Leaves - by Gail Bannock

Ristarante Il Pozzo - by Linda DeLuca

Quiet Frozen Brook - by Bill Tarn

Sail Away - by Pat Walton

NOVEMBER EXHIBIT

2007-11-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

Musk Ox - Watercolor

"Elegant Ram" - Colored Pencils

"Joyful Dash" - Acrylics

Phyllis R. Bailey, Artist * Multi-media Teacher

Also known as Abbe, has been teaching adult and children's classes since 1956 in oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels and pen & ink drawings. Phyllis opened the Farmington River School of Art for adults in Plainville. Phyllis R. Bailey is her "Art Name", her legal name is P. Abbe Wade and prefers to be called Abbe.

"I hope you enjoy my animal art exhibit".

OCTOBER EXHIBIT

2007-10-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

Bristol Brass Wagon by Theresa Chase

Farmington & Her Seven Daughters by Lynne Mauro

Krell Farm Stand by Doris Drawec

"Farmington & Her Seven Daughters"

by Students of the Farmington River School of Art is on exhibit for the month of October in the Library Community Room.There are 48 pieces of various medium in the exhibit representing Farmington, Avon, Berlin, Bristol, Burlington, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington. A reception is scheduled for Saturday, October 20, 1:00-4:00. Come and meet the Artists.