I live and work in a little area nestled between two states which straddle a meandering river emptying out into Long Island Sound. The little beach towns of Pawcatuck, CT and Westerly, RI are forever united like conjoined twins sharing a heart. At the heart of these towns are its people and their willingness to embrace the life offered and keep their town(s) alive. Both towns boast active businesses, cafes, restaurants, retail stores, and lots and lots of artists studios!!! How exciting it is to have such a strong community of creative people in one little area. Even better is the willingness of the downtown businesses and building owners to support the artist community by participating in monthly art strolls (every 1st Wednesdays of the Month) and hosting events like the Virtu Art Festival every Memorial Day weekend.
Well, you are now officially invited to participate in or witness what I believe to be a truly special event. The "I (Heart) Downtown" Art Exhibition will transform the storefronts of downtown Westerly and Pawcatuck into a gallery showcasing a collection of local artwork from May 27th-May 31st! How thrilling it has been to hear a resounding YES when I approached both the artists and the business owners with this idea. There was hardly ever a no said and instead my questions were followed by enthusiastic offers. Thanks to all of those who have said YES to this unique opportunity. Here is a list of all of the participating artists and businesses to date. I will post a complete listing after we hang the show on May 27th. So be sure to come into town on Memorial Day weekend and grab a coffee or tea or even ice cream and take a stroll down Railroad Avenue, Canal Street, High Street, Broad Street and into Pawcatuck. Look in the windows, walk in the stores and see for yourself all that we have to offer!!!
When: May 27th, registration & hanging
displaying through May 31st
Where: Downtown Westerly, RI & Pawcatuck, CT
Artists: Will Houlihan, Millie Donovan, Ian Newbury, Fran Knapp, Marie Laudini, Jen Pescatella, The Red Couch Studio, Jackie O'Dea, Julianne Eanniello, Carey Williams, Laurie MacKenzie & her students, Laura Gaffke, Joyita Neerkaje, Lisa Szaro, Susan Stone, Dennis Sirrine, Denny Rivera, Heather Caulkins, Judy Silver, John Malenda, Diana Sartor, Dave Madden, Doraine Van Lew, Sandi Gold, Kathy Johnson, Cathy Johansen, Sherrie Parenteau, Kathy Johnson, Lacy Martin...
Businesses: Perks & Corks, Eagle's Nest Gallery, Nature's Wisdom, Carrie's Shoes, L'Interieur, Town & Shore Realty, Van Ghent, Classic Framers, TLC Boutique, The Riverside Artists Studio & Gallery, The Bean Counter, Candy Galore, Nigrelli Jewelry, Bea Smiths, Seaport Downtown, Herbwise, Laurie's Art Center, The Westerly Land Trust, Expertise Styling Salon, Beauty Hut, Melissa Ashley Brides, The Children's Market, Bella Vita Salon, Get Fired Up, Artists' Coop Gallery of Westerly, Better Body Works...
Special Thanks to: The Westerly/Pawcatuck Downtown Business Association and its members, WBLQ 1230 A.M., The New London Day and The Westerly Sun news publications for throwing their hat in and helping the DBA promote this effort!!!!
Be sure to come visit me in the park where I will be participating with fellow artist and friend, Will Houlihan, in the Virtu Art Festival, booth #36 (on the right side of the Library across from the town hall). Will and I have something special planned.
Here is a brief video promo/invitation. Be sure to share this with your friends and give props to Sconvideo Steve for his brilliant work!
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