Art league hosts 'Duets' exhibit on May 2

Date: 4/27/2009

For the second year, the Wilbraham Art League (WAL) will be having an exhibit titled "Duets" to be shown in the Brooks Room of the Wilbraham Public Library from May 2 through 30. There will be a reception on May 2 from noon until 4 p.m. Thirty artists will participate and be in attendance to discuss the nature of their medium and the challenges they faced in this unique show.

This year the theme of show was suggested by member Ann Carver. Her interest in literature provided a new concept that would stimulate new ways of approaching art; exercise the mind; and dare WAL artists to stretch their horizons. Two artists would partner and decide on a literary theme such as a quote from a poem, essay or favorite author. Individual compositions will be accomplished through landscape, seascape, floral, fantasy, sculpture, basket weaving, photography or jewel design.

Last year the partners used a photo for inspiration and as a reference for their two works. And, similar to last year, the artwork will be hung side by side with their literary selection.

The duos for the exhibit will be as follows: Ann Carver and Ricki Smith, both watercolorists, inspired by a quote from writer and naturalist John Burroughs; Ray Hunt, wood carver, and Fran Selva, basket weaver, by William Wordsworth's "Ode to a Butterfly"; Vicky Deforge and Kris Crimmins, both acrylic artists, by James Patterson's book, "Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment"; Frank Tencza, acrylic painter and Lucy Peltier, photographer, by Robert Frost's "The Sound of Trees"; and Mary Massida, oil painter, and Mary Lou Deshais, jewelry designer, by Robert Frost's "Birches."

Other artists involved are Elizabeth Kowal and Elizabeth Ann Koscher, Marcia Long and Susan Nieski, Vickie Fritz and Fran Levesque, Joyce Emerle and Sue Chaffee, Gloria Rousseau and Dorthy Gerrish, Caryl and Harry MacLeod, Jerry and Roberta Wilson, Pauline Babineau and Aline DeRaleau.

The WAL was established by a group of artists for developing active community interest and providing education in the field of fine arts. Membership is open to artists, patrons, businesses and all other persons interested in and supportive of fine arts in the Hampden County area. For more information, please call 596-9911 or visit wilbrahamartleague.org.