MILLBROOK — Art lovers flocked to the Millbrook Library on Saturday, Nov. 8, to celebrate the opening of “Salon Hang,” an eagerly anticipated exhibition showcasing works by both budding and established local artists. The fact that proceeds benefit the library was a welcome bonus.
Festive orange banners rippled from roof to ground along the library façade, signaling that something special was happening inside.
The show marks the library’s first effort to bring together artists of all ages in a single exhibition — a concept organizers hope to repeat, if not next year amid an already full calendar of events, then certainly the year after.
“How do we raise funds inclusive of the entire community,” was the question that gave rise to the event, library board member June Glasson said.
Local artists and art lovers turned out in force for the Friday, Nov. 7, opening of “Salon Hang,” a community-wide art show and fundraiser for the Millbrook Library. Resident Toni Weeks brought little Ren Herberich-Weeks, 9 months, to the event that included a number of works by her wife, Emily Herberich, local professional artist.Photo by Leila Hawken
Engaging the entire community, Salon Hang attracted artists of all ages and levels of experience, as 104 artists came forward to show 120 pieces in all. A few professional artists have more than one work in the show.
Board member Leigh Jackiewicz was pleased to see all ages represented, from youngsters to professionals. Sales were brisk at the opening. Prices range between $5 and upwards of $6,000, a variety of percentages to be donated to support the library.
“This is a way to get professional and amateur artists to participate even more than usual in our library,” Jackiewicz added.
“Anything I can do to help the library … my kids are always here participating in craft clubs,” said crochet artist Erin Walsh who was showing an intricate wall hanging. “They do a great job,” she added in praise of the library’s staff and programs.
The Salon Hang exhibit and sale will continue until Monday, Nov. 24.
