During the month of February, the Camden Public Library will host an eclectic virtual art show featuring the works of five midcoast artists, Christina Barstow, Sue Garrett, E.L. (Lisa) Morgan, Jody Solow, and Marjorie Strauss, who have attended New Ventures Maine (NVME) classes and workshops. The art show is complemented by a presentation on Zoom, where the artists have an opportunity to talk about their influences, inspirations, and the mediums they work with.
NVME, a statewide organization with free online classes, helps Maine people succeed in their jobs, businesses, and communities. The classes cover topics like career building, finding new employment, starting or growing a small business, money management, returning to school, and more. The Camden Public Library has been a community partner of NVME for many years by offering a warm and welcoming meeting space for the organization’s free, in-person classes (prior to COVID).
“This art show was inspired by a winter Building Confidence class in 2020, where almost every class participant was an artist,” says Wildes. “The class benefits those who are in challenging life transitions or who are seeking the confidence to move ahead with their goals and aspirations.” A number of artists in the class were seeking ways to network and exhibit their art work. A virtual art show provided the library and NVME a great opportunity to collaborate once again and support aspiring midcoast artists.
Participating artists have also kindly pledged to donate 20% of sales from the show to benefit the Camden Public Library.
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