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Reminder Assistant Editor LONGMEADOW Lynn Hurley says she has always liked art. Ever since she was a little girl, she's been fascinated with colors and textures. While she has taken a few art classes, she says she is mostly self-taught and she displays her work at local craft shows, art shows and house parties. Now through the end of February, she'll have a few select pieces available for viewing at the Storrs Library. "This is what I love to do," Hurley told Reminder Publications. "It makes me happy." According to her Web site, www.lynnhurley.com, the long-time Longmeadow resident "create[s] 'FUNKtional' art for everyday living." Her unique approach to everyday objects such as silverware, bookmarks, stemware and purses incorporates multicolored beads, wires, paint, fiber and fabric. She also creates shadow boxes and canvas wall art. She's been making her creations for more than 15 years. "I was showing some altered books I had created at the library and the idea for a small show grew from there," Hurley said. Diane Donner, a library assistant at Storrs, said Hurley came highly recommended by another staff member at the library. "Lynn was in the library that day and we worked together to bring an exhibit here." Hurley's artwork is currently on display in the glass cases on the first floor of the adult department in the library. The artists has also exhibited her works at Long Meddowe Days, on Mattoon Street in Springfield and at the exhibit space at the Jewish Community Center on Dickinson Street in Springfield. Hurley grew up in Longmeadow and lived in Agawam for a while before moving back to her hometown. "I have a nine-year-old son who wants to be an artist too, and I wanted my children to be able to go to the Storrs Library like I used to," she said. "There are so many great programs there. It's such a nice place." While Hurley has sold her artwork throughout the country, there is some debate about what to do with her art. "I encourage people to eat and drink out of what I've created," she stated, "but some people hang it on their walls." Some items on display that could be used in the kitchen include silverware, martini glasses, salt and pepper shakers, an oil and vinegar set and salad tongs. "It's art for your table," Hurley explained. The prices for her creations range from $10 for a funky bookmark to approximately $300 for a large piece of wall art. "I have a lot of people who say they love my work and become repeat customers," Hurley said. She can create custom artwork if commissioned. "My artwork is funky, it's fun, it's colorful and it makes people smile," she said. "Nothing is off limits." Storrs Library is open Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no charge to visit Hurley's exhibit. | ||||||
