Cheffetz exhibit at Springfield MuseumDate: 10/19/2009 SPRINGFIELD Wood engravings by the celebrated, self-taught artist Asa Cheffetz are on view in the Michele & Donald D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts through March 28, 2010 in the exhibition "Asa Cheffetz: Master Wood Engraver."
Although he was born in Buffalo, N.Y., Cheffetz lived in Springfield for most of his life. Created with intense attention to detail, his crisp engravings illustrate the barns, bridges and snowy forest scenes of New England.
The exhibit includes some of Cheffetz's well-known images as well as several recent acquisitions of early prints that were experimental in nature, the artist's sketch book, woodblocks and tools.
The museum's large collection of wood engravings by Cheffetz began the year that the museum opened to the public.
In 1934, the print titled "Monday" was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Kamberg. It was the first of many prints to be given to the museum over time by generous donors such as the Junior League of Springfield, Frederick M. Jones, the Kambergs, Lucy Mitchell and Mrs. Louis Cheffetz (sister-in-law of the artist). Other images were added to the collection through museum purchase.
An expert in the art and craft of wood engraving, Cheffetz also displayed his impressive technique and versatility in glass goblets and tiny illustrations used as book plates and for the New England Calendar series. While this exhibit displays only a portion of the prolific artist's work, it offers viewers a glimpse of his vision, sensitivity and creative passion.
The Springfield Museums are located on the Quadrangle at 21 Edwards St. in downtown Springfield. Free parking is available in the Edwards Street parking lots. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Science Museum open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Admission is $12.50 for adults, $9 for seniors and college students, $6.50 for children ages three to 17, and free for children under three and museum members. Springfield residents are free with proof of address. The fee provides admission to all four Springfield Museums and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.
For information, call 263-6800 or visit www.springfieldmuseums.org.
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