“The most precious factor in the creative life of an artist in any medium is freedom. Totalitarian, political and national leaders who seek to control or deprive the artist can strangle their work and cripple a culture. Throughout history, artists have used their creativity in times of social and political upheaval to provide a balance for what is important in our lives, evoking emotions that calm and provide beauty. Now we are faced with the defunding of the National Endowment of the Arts, an organization that has financially supported the maintenance of our freedom of expression. We desperately need to defend and stand with the NEA, its value, and its significant role in our society today.” ~Anne Brooke

New Beginnings—New Beginnings, our show of spring-related artwork, enters its second month with a second reception. Join us on Saturday, April 1 from 1:00-3:00pm, and bring the kids! At 1:00pm, Susan Richie will read from her book, Ebbé Finds His Heart, the story of a young troll who sets off on a journey to find his future. Denette Fretz will read from Conrad and the Cowgirl Next Door at 2:00pm. Her book tells about Conrad, who, equipped with his mega-extreme, ultimate first aid kit, learns the rules of being a cowboy. Enjoy live music by Matt and Rebecca Stuart of Minstrel Streams, wine, and hors d’oeuvres while viewing this beautiful show of member artwork and getting to know the artists.

Art Presence Offsite Exhibits:

Pioneer Village: Anne Brooke’s exhibit of watercolor paintings continues through April 19. See more of Anne’s work at www.brookewatercolor.com.

Jacksonville Library, Naversen Room: Photography by Kathleen Hoevet—Hoevet’s show of stunning photography continues through April 19. See more of Kathy’s work at kathleenhoevetphotography.com.

Medford Library: Photography by Tom Ommen—Ommen’s show of photography continues through July.

What’s Happening Upstairs?

Figure Drawing: Practice makes perfect—Keep those fingers accurate and expressive by regularly drawing professional models from life! Bring your sketchbook and pencils, and join us for a life drawing studio every Monday from 1:00-3:00pm. Just $10 for each two-hour session.

Workshop: Kath Macauley presents the first art workshop in our classroom! Stay tuned for “PocketSketching,” coming up June 16–18.

Reserve our upstairs room for your class, workshop or meeting! Contact Anne Brooke at 541-941-7057.