Staff Contributor:
René Bue, HPL Art & Exhibit Coordinator and Fund Development Manager
Other than the Artist Sneak Peek Month in May, it is rare that the library hosts so many exhibits by so many artists or groups. In September, we have exhibits for four artists, the American Revolution and its Wisconsin connection, and a new mural.
The mural is near the entrance to the library on the lower level in the covered parking area. It features bright colors and the message "Let Words Take Flight." Muralist Ray Mawst is engaging and fun to work with. Even though this year may have been the coldest Art Infusion on record, Ray kept his spirits high as he worked for four days creating the beautiful addition to the library's outdoor space. Learn more about Ray and the other murals he has created on his website.
Inside the library on the River Wall, you will find the beautiful watercolors by Gretchen Pedersen. She has been inspired by and taught by several local artists including Connie Glowacki, Barb Matthews, Marilyn Keating, and others. Gretchen has won an award for her artwork and loves donating pieces to her favorite organizations.
In the Gallery, you can escape into the peaceful landscape photographs of Kathryn Thoms. She was inspired as a third grader by the black and white photos of Ansel Adams. That inspiration has taken her to National Parks where she has captured their beauty and peace.
Sandi Walton has her exhibit of multi-media artwork in the Fireplace Room. Each wall features a different medium and technique. Sandi is one of our first-time exhibitors, and we are pleased to be the place where she shares her talent. She has also entered several pieces in the Rotary Botanical Gardens art exhibits. Currently she has a sunflower on display there through mid-September. Watch her Meet the Artist interview.
Richard Lazcano's sculpture work is likely familiar to many people as he is the artist who created Gloria the Eagle and the giant cyclist which can both be found in Town Square in downtown Janesville. Richard's exhibit at the library can be found in the Display Case next to the Fireplace Room. His unique style of metal sculpture is captivating. Learn more in his Meet the Artist interview.
Last, we have the Patriots of the American Revolution - Their Legacies in Wisconsin exhibit, ahead of the 250th anniversary of the United States next year. The traveling exhibit is on loan from the Wisconsin Society Daughters of the American Revolution and sponsored by the Janesville Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. This four-panel exhibit is interactive and shares stories of resilience, migration to Wisconsin, and the dreams of those who moved to what would become the state of Wisconsin.
Art is available for viewing during regular library hours. Viewers are encouraged to leave written comments for the artists in the binder located in the Fireplace Room. Special thanks to Teresa Nguyen and JATV Media Services for the Meet the Artist interviews that let us learn more about the artists and their inspirations.
Want to exhibit at HPL?
The library schedules exhibits and displays of interest, information, and enlightenment to the community throughout the year. Interested in becoming a featured artist? Click here to learn more.
See our full calendar of upcoming exhibits and displays here.