Last Friday, we had our last opening reception of our regular season at the Essex Art Association. The Late Summer Open Show, themed “Opposites Attract”, runs through September 16th. There will be shows in October for our rental month and a short show in December but are not part of our regular show season. We have artwork from 50 artists and a featured solo show in the Gantner Gallery by Mary Horrigan, and it shows the varying styles of different artists in so many ways.
There are several things I am proud of as the Gallery Director for the first time. Building relationships with artists of varying levels is so important. I am delighted to see so many new members as well as new artists entering our shows. It brings a certain energy, diversity, and a broadened spectrum of artistry. Winning two awards was the icing on the cake, one for Best in Theme and the other for Best Photo; they were both not the typical style that I enter into shows but fit the themes appropriately. It was also great to meet each juror that we had for the shows, help them with show guidelines, and ultimately use their expertise to create a best-of collection while creating a cohesive show.
Although our 16th anniversary was last Friday, we needed to wait until Sunday to celebrate because of our work commitments. First, we dropped off my three photos that were accepted into the IMAGES 2023 show at the Sill House Gallery at the Lyme Art Academy. It was great to see two of the photographers as well as the photos that were ready to be hung for the show. Next stop: the Chester Fair! Beautiful day, with a cool breeze, and then it really started to heat up as we were heading out. I also won a 2nd place ribbon for the Hydrangea I entered - hooray!
In looking for a couple more shows to enter this year, I found one at the Mattatuck Museum featuring photos of the Riverside Cemetary. Since I was in Oxford to pick up some retail items for CDHR, I decided to pop in to see if I could get some shots and save myself a trip! Here are the three I entered:
I also took an interesting shot under the Route 8 overpasses down the street from the cemetery. I love how the sunbeams bent and the boldness of the structures and colors.
I was delighted to hear that I won awards for my photos “Star” and “Fiona & the Stormy Skies”, one for the IMAGES 2023 show and the other for Gallery 53’s MOMENTS WELL SPENT: 2023 Photography Exhibit.
On a side note, the wild turkey continues to come to our backyard. We are delighted to see him frequently, and I was ecstatic to find one of his feathers!
“A turkey feather symbolizes abundance, blessings, creativity, knowledge, and power. It also signifies new beginnings, protection, and strength. Turkey feathers have been used in Native American ceremonies and rituals for centuries. They are considered to be powerful symbols of good luck and fortune. Some believe that finding a turkey feather is a sign from the universe that you are on the right path.” https://symbolismandmetaphor.com/turkey-feather-meaning/
Today, the day was so beautiful. I couldn’t get my motivation up enough to kick into gear. I then realized I just needed a day to recharge my battery. I read, rested, wrote, and took a Chinese food break in Farmington. I am a bit finicky about Chinese food, and this place was simply fantastic. Definitely going back!
Along with the cool breezes this week, I also noticed foliage change from the lush, bright green foliage all over, to hints of reds, oranges, and tans on random trees. A definite indication of the next season to come.
Speaking of food, it is time to figure out dinner! Looking forward to writing again soon.