Building a Community One Brush Stroke at a Time

 “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” - Vincent Van Gogh

Any of these voices would definitely have been silenced by the 2nd Annual “Painting Without Limitations” Art Show held at the Centre on Friday, April 30th. This year, the show was opened up to any participant who wished to take part, regardless of whether or not they were currently in a Centre art class, and the results were amazing. 82 pieces exhibited by 33 artists, 29 pieces bought by members of the very enthusiastic crowd of about 200 people for a total of $1,050 in sales.

Anyone who attended the show was treated to more than just beautiful art for the eye. With a live band and a variety of delicious refreshments, the show was delightful for the ear and palate as well. It was an amazing success far beyond what any of the staff or participants could have expected. Many of the people who were visiting the Centre for the first time commented repeatedly on what a joyful, vibrant place it was and how impressed they were with all of the talent displayed. The participants who exhibited their pieces were thrilled with the evening as well. As one artist commented, “I felt honored that people enjoyed seeing my work.” Another explained, “My paintings were mine to remember, and now other people were looking at them, so we all share different memories of the art now.”

Appreciation for everything that went into the show goes to a myriad of people. All the participants created the art, which was of course the basis for this entire project. Brian Furman and Teresa Martuccio took care of framing and arranging the art. David Peters taught many art classes at the Centre in preparation for the show. Diana Cochran-Tatters and Jan Harangozo solicited donations and made all the refreshments as well as helping their crafts class put together a beautiful flower display. Maggie Larter and Shannon Snook organized the paperwork involved with all of the artwork exhibited and took care of communications and advertisement of the show. And all of the staff supported, encouraged, and helped out with the many small things that went on behind the scenes as well. The show was truly the work of a community of people, in which everyone felt that they could belong.

The Centre currently has seven art classes, all of which encourage expression and empowerment through the creation of art. With their efforts and those of the many talented participants who also enjoy creating art in their homes, we will hopefully be talking about the success of the third annual art show at this time next year. As one participant shared, “I’m already thinking about what to paint next!”