The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is pleased to welcome “In Transit,” an art exhibition by Jeff McCracken on view beginning Friday, May 2. 

An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 3 from 3 to 5 pm. The public is invited to attend.

The paintings in this show demonstrate a mastery of realism, mood, and human presence.

The foundation of McCracken’s practice is linked to being emotionally influenced by the story each individual conveys. His subway series of paintings focus on individuals being private in a public place, capturing that fleeting moment when their inner humanity is revealed regardless of who they are or where they’re from.

Check our social media for weekly open hours: @judyblackpark on Instagram and Facebook. 

One week a year, six local artists get together and paint at Onadune, a sprawling family house in Rhode Island. A giant porch, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic, serves as their studio. The painters ( insert names or list above?) met fifteen years ago at the Washington Art Association, in Ira Barkoff’s class, and have continued sharing their work and ideas ever since.

While the artists have very different styles, interpretations, and backgrounds in the arts, the artwork created at Onadune shares a singular flavor of salt air and light. This special place has given the artists the rare opportunity to paint from dawn to dusk, follow their instincts while supported by each other, and has cemented the bond forged at the Washington Art Association.

The exhibit brings the viewer to Onadune and shows how six different artists have used

the same place for inspiration and personal artistic growth.The artists:

Joanne Conant

A jeweler and recognized enamellist, Joanne brought her talent to seascapes fifteen years ago and never looked back. A resident of Newtown and a former teacher at Brookfield Craft center, she is well known for her cloisonné enamels and jewelry and brings much of that sensibility to her paintings.

Elizabeth MacDonald

After Elizabeth worked as an actor in Seattle, she moved to her Bridgewater residence and started her journey with clay. She is known for her vessels, large scale mosaics, sculptures, and paintings on clay. Her time at Onadune has expanded her paintings on slate as well as canvas.

Ronnie Maddalena

A graphic designer living in Warren, Ronnie contributes her graphics skills to many important corporate and local causes, including The Farmer’sTable. Ronnie creates brilliant and exuberant still lifes, both found and arranged.

Kathleen Love Mooney

A resident of West Cornwall, Kathleen started her career as a fashion designer in NYC designing clothing on silk that she hand-painted. Her focus is painting landscapes; she continues to paint everything she sees.

Karen Simmons

Was an architect in NYC, and in France, and joined WAA when she moved to Woodbury, CT. Her paintings, landscapes and still-lifes, reflect both her architectural and European background.

Wendy Walker

Has previously worked as both an illustrator and a scenic artist /designer in NYC. When she moved to Roxbury Ct, she started painting “a little smaller” and paints landscapes and subjects that inspire her emotionally.

Join us for a special screening of A Complete Unknown, the acclaimed 2024 biographical drama about legendary musician Bob Dylan's transformative early years.

Directed by James Mangold, A Complete Unknown chronicles the journey of a 19-year-old Bob Dylan (portrayed by Timothée Chalamet) as he arrives in New York City in 1961. Determined to meet his idol, the ailing folk singer Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), Dylan quickly immerses himself in the vibrant Greenwich Village music scene. Under the mentorship of figures like Pete Seeger (Edward Norton) and alongside contemporaries such as Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), Dylan's meteoric rise challenges traditional folk norms, culminating in his controversial electric performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. ​

A Complete Unknown has garnered critical acclaim, earning eight nominations at the 97th Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Chalamet. The film is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of Dylan's early career and the cultural shifts of the 1960s. ​

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the story of a musical icon's rise to prominence and the moments that defined a generation.

Rated R

2:21 H

Registration is Required:

https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/monday-movie-matinee-a-complete-unknown/

The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is pleased to welcome “In Transit,” an art exhibition by Jeff McCracken on view beginning Friday, May 2. 

An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 3 from 3 to 5 pm. The public is invited to attend.

The paintings in this show demonstrate a mastery of realism, mood, and human presence.

The foundation of McCracken’s practice is linked to being emotionally influenced by the story each individual conveys. His subway series of paintings focus on individuals being private in a public place, capturing that fleeting moment when their inner humanity is revealed regardless of who they are or where they’re from.

Check our social media for weekly open hours: @judyblackpark on Instagram and Facebook. 

The Gunn Memorial Library Stairwell Gallery is pleased to present Restoration: Landscapes & Botanical Abstracts in Gouache, an exhibition of beautiful landscapes and botanicals by artist Susan Newbury, on view from April 5 through May 31.

Susan’s work is a celebration of nature’s depth and detail, drawing inspiration from the stunning landscapes, waterscapes, and gardens of her rural New York State roots and her home in Litchfield County. With a background in graphic and fashion design, her artistic practice has evolved into a dynamic exploration of color, pattern, and movement. She works primarily in gouache, acrylic, and mixed media on paper, canvas, and wood panel, using a bright, rich palette to create layered compositions that blend natural elements with abstract forms.

“Nature not only provides the subject matter but the solitude, joy, and purpose for my paintings, creating a place of quiet introspection and restoration,” she says. Her work reflects this philosophy, infusing familiar landscapes with energy and emotion while maintaining a sense of tranquility and balance. Inspired by both the botanical world and interior design elements such as fabric, wallpaper, and tilework, her paintings feature repeating shapes and striking color contrasts for an unexpected visual experience.

Her instinctive approach to painting allows her to let go of the rules, creating compositions that are both structured and free-flowing. She paints in her Litchfield County studio and accepts commission work.

Gunn Memorial Library is located at 5 Wykeham Road at the juncture of Route 47 opposite the Green in Washington, CT. Library hours may be found at gunnlibrary.org.

For more information call (860)868-7586 or email, adoerwald@gunnlibrary.org.

One week a year, six local artists get together and paint at Onadune, a sprawling family house in Rhode Island. A giant porch, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic, serves as their studio. The painters ( insert names or list above?) met fifteen years ago at the Washington Art Association, in Ira Barkoff’s class, and have continued sharing their work and ideas ever since.

While the artists have very different styles, interpretations, and backgrounds in the arts, the artwork created at Onadune shares a singular flavor of salt air and light. This special place has given the artists the rare opportunity to paint from dawn to dusk, follow their instincts while supported by each other, and has cemented the bond forged at the Washington Art Association.

The exhibit brings the viewer to Onadune and shows how six different artists have used

the same place for inspiration and personal artistic growth.The artists:

Joanne Conant

A jeweler and recognized enamellist, Joanne brought her talent to seascapes fifteen years ago and never looked back. A resident of Newtown and a former teacher at Brookfield Craft center, she is well known for her cloisonné enamels and jewelry and brings much of that sensibility to her paintings.

Elizabeth MacDonald

After Elizabeth worked as an actor in Seattle, she moved to her Bridgewater residence and started her journey with clay. She is known for her vessels, large scale mosaics, sculptures, and paintings on clay. Her time at Onadune has expanded her paintings on slate as well as canvas.

Ronnie Maddalena

A graphic designer living in Warren, Ronnie contributes her graphics skills to many important corporate and local causes, including The Farmer’sTable. Ronnie creates brilliant and exuberant still lifes, both found and arranged.

Kathleen Love Mooney

A resident of West Cornwall, Kathleen started her career as a fashion designer in NYC designing clothing on silk that she hand-painted. Her focus is painting landscapes; she continues to paint everything she sees.

Karen Simmons

Was an architect in NYC, and in France, and joined WAA when she moved to Woodbury, CT. Her paintings, landscapes and still-lifes, reflect both her architectural and European background.

Wendy Walker

Has previously worked as both an illustrator and a scenic artist /designer in NYC. When she moved to Roxbury Ct, she started painting “a little smaller” and paints landscapes and subjects that inspire her emotionally.

Plant lovers and garden gurus are invited to The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens annual Gardenpalooza plant sale on Saturday, May 17 from 10 am to 1 pm featuring a variety of perennials, annuals, flowers, vegetable and herb plants available for purchase from Meadowbrook Gardens. Stock up on plants to start or add to your own home garden.

Additionally, Farmers and Cooks will be on site offering tasty ready-to-eat food for purchase featuring local ingredients.

Plus, local organizations will also be present to showcase their projects and initiatives. Discover how they’re growing positive change and get inspired to dig deeper into community connections!

Bamboo pens, inks, paints, and paper (to be provided at no extra cost)

Location of Workshop: Norman Sunshine Center, 11 Green Hill Road, Washington Depot

*Parking is available behind the building. 

Renowned Afghan master contemporary calligrapher Alibaba Awrang will introduce experienced artists and beginners to Persian calligraphy. One of the world’s leading living Persian calligraphers, with works hanging in museums throughout the world, Awrang will explain the historical role of calligraphy as an art form that conveys human emotions, aspirations, and beauty. He will demonstrate his art;  and then invite you to try your hand (more specifically, your bamboo pen, with inks and paint, on paper) at creating your own original piece of contemporary calligraphy.

https://www.alibabaawrang.com/

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHbSA-YsDUx/?igsh=MXR5bmtoa3NuZ2h0dg%3D%3D

The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens is pleased to welcome “In Transit,” an art exhibition by Jeff McCracken on view beginning Friday, May 2. 

An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 3 from 3 to 5 pm. The public is invited to attend.

The paintings in this show demonstrate a mastery of realism, mood, and human presence.

The foundation of McCracken’s practice is linked to being emotionally influenced by the story each individual conveys. His subway series of paintings focus on individuals being private in a public place, capturing that fleeting moment when their inner humanity is revealed regardless of who they are or where they’re from.

Check our social media for weekly open hours: @judyblackpark on Instagram and Facebook. 

One week a year, six local artists get together and paint at Onadune, a sprawling family house in Rhode Island. A giant porch, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic, serves as their studio. The painters ( insert names or list above?) met fifteen years ago at the Washington Art Association, in Ira Barkoff’s class, and have continued sharing their work and ideas ever since.

While the artists have very different styles, interpretations, and backgrounds in the arts, the artwork created at Onadune shares a singular flavor of salt air and light. This special place has given the artists the rare opportunity to paint from dawn to dusk, follow their instincts while supported by each other, and has cemented the bond forged at the Washington Art Association.

The exhibit brings the viewer to Onadune and shows how six different artists have used

the same place for inspiration and personal artistic growth.The artists:

Joanne Conant

A jeweler and recognized enamellist, Joanne brought her talent to seascapes fifteen years ago and never looked back. A resident of Newtown and a former teacher at Brookfield Craft center, she is well known for her cloisonné enamels and jewelry and brings much of that sensibility to her paintings.

Elizabeth MacDonald

After Elizabeth worked as an actor in Seattle, she moved to her Bridgewater residence and started her journey with clay. She is known for her vessels, large scale mosaics, sculptures, and paintings on clay. Her time at Onadune has expanded her paintings on slate as well as canvas.

Ronnie Maddalena

A graphic designer living in Warren, Ronnie contributes her graphics skills to many important corporate and local causes, including The Farmer’sTable. Ronnie creates brilliant and exuberant still lifes, both found and arranged.

Kathleen Love Mooney

A resident of West Cornwall, Kathleen started her career as a fashion designer in NYC designing clothing on silk that she hand-painted. Her focus is painting landscapes; she continues to paint everything she sees.

Karen Simmons

Was an architect in NYC, and in France, and joined WAA when she moved to Woodbury, CT. Her paintings, landscapes and still-lifes, reflect both her architectural and European background.

Wendy Walker

Has previously worked as both an illustrator and a scenic artist /designer in NYC. When she moved to Roxbury Ct, she started painting “a little smaller” and paints landscapes and subjects that inspire her emotionally.

The Gunn Memorial Library Stairwell Gallery is pleased to present Restoration: Landscapes & Botanical Abstracts in Gouache, an exhibition of beautiful landscapes and botanicals by artist Susan Newbury, on view from April 5 through May 31.

Susan’s work is a celebration of nature’s depth and detail, drawing inspiration from the stunning landscapes, waterscapes, and gardens of her rural New York State roots and her home in Litchfield County. With a background in graphic and fashion design, her artistic practice has evolved into a dynamic exploration of color, pattern, and movement. She works primarily in gouache, acrylic, and mixed media on paper, canvas, and wood panel, using a bright, rich palette to create layered compositions that blend natural elements with abstract forms.

“Nature not only provides the subject matter but the solitude, joy, and purpose for my paintings, creating a place of quiet introspection and restoration,” she says. Her work reflects this philosophy, infusing familiar landscapes with energy and emotion while maintaining a sense of tranquility and balance. Inspired by both the botanical world and interior design elements such as fabric, wallpaper, and tilework, her paintings feature repeating shapes and striking color contrasts for an unexpected visual experience.

Her instinctive approach to painting allows her to let go of the rules, creating compositions that are both structured and free-flowing. She paints in her Litchfield County studio and accepts commission work.

Gunn Memorial Library is located at 5 Wykeham Road at the juncture of Route 47 opposite the Green in Washington, CT. Library hours may be found at gunnlibrary.org.

For more information call (860)868-7586 or email, adoerwald@gunnlibrary.org.

May 20, 2:00-3:30 pm

The Gunn Museum and Makerspace present a series of craft workshops inspired by artifacts from the Museum’s collections.

May’s workshop focuses on basket weaving! See examples of different baskets from the Museum’s collection and make one to bring home.

Ages 18+

Registration required: https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/crafting-history-basket-weaving/

One week a year, six local artists get together and paint at Onadune, a sprawling family house in Rhode Island. A giant porch, surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic, serves as their studio. The painters ( insert names or list above?) met fifteen years ago at the Washington Art Association, in Ira Barkoff’s class, and have continued sharing their work and ideas ever since.

While the artists have very different styles, interpretations, and backgrounds in the arts, the artwork created at Onadune shares a singular flavor of salt air and light. This special place has given the artists the rare opportunity to paint from dawn to dusk, follow their instincts while supported by each other, and has cemented the bond forged at the Washington Art Association.

The exhibit brings the viewer to Onadune and shows how six different artists have used

the same place for inspiration and personal artistic growth.The artists:

Joanne Conant

A jeweler and recognized enamellist, Joanne brought her talent to seascapes fifteen years ago and never looked back. A resident of Newtown and a former teacher at Brookfield Craft center, she is well known for her cloisonné enamels and jewelry and brings much of that sensibility to her paintings.

Elizabeth MacDonald

After Elizabeth worked as an actor in Seattle, she moved to her Bridgewater residence and started her journey with clay. She is known for her vessels, large scale mosaics, sculptures, and paintings on clay. Her time at Onadune has expanded her paintings on slate as well as canvas.

Ronnie Maddalena

A graphic designer living in Warren, Ronnie contributes her graphics skills to many important corporate and local causes, including The Farmer’sTable. Ronnie creates brilliant and exuberant still lifes, both found and arranged.

Kathleen Love Mooney

A resident of West Cornwall, Kathleen started her career as a fashion designer in NYC designing clothing on silk that she hand-painted. Her focus is painting landscapes; she continues to paint everything she sees.

Karen Simmons

Was an architect in NYC, and in France, and joined WAA when she moved to Woodbury, CT. Her paintings, landscapes and still-lifes, reflect both her architectural and European background.

Wendy Walker

Has previously worked as both an illustrator and a scenic artist /designer in NYC. When she moved to Roxbury Ct, she started painting “a little smaller” and paints landscapes and subjects that inspire her emotionally.

The Storyteller’s Death by Ann Dávila Cardinal

The Storyteller’s Death by Ann Dávila Cardinal is a critically acclaimed novel that offers a compelling blend of magical realism, family legacy, and cultural exploration. It is an ideal choice for thoughtful discussion and reflection.

Set in 1970s Puerto Rico, The Storyteller’s Death follows Isla Larsen Sanchez, a teenage girl navigating the complexities of identity, grief, and belonging. After her grandmother’s death, Isla begins to experience vivid visions of her ancestors’ stories—visions that both unsettle and enlighten her. As Isla unravels generations of hidden truths, the line between past and present, myth and reality, becomes increasingly blurred.

Ann Dávila Cardinal masterfully weaves together themes of intergenerational trauma, storytelling, and cultural identity in a novel that is as emotionally resonant as it is thought-provoking.

All community members are invited to participate in this literary exploration. Whether you are a longtime participant or new to the group, we welcome your insights and perspectives.

Registration is required.

Copies of the book are available at the circulation desk.

Registration required: https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/gml-thursday-book-club-the-storytellers-death-by-ann-davila-cardinal/

Paint a bookmark that looks just like stained glass in this Makerspace workshop! 

Ages 18+

Registration Required:

https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/faux-stained-glass-bookmarks/

Mark your calendar and ready your totes—the seasonal Washington farmers market will soon be returning to The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens beginning May 24! Your Saturdays are about to get a whole lot fresher with the bounty that comes from the fields, greenhouses and kitchens of Litchfield County’s best growers and makers. 

Enjoy locally grown veggies, freshly baked breads and pastries, pasture-raised meats, artisanal cheeses, delectable dairy, scrumptious seafood and more. The market also features fresh-cut flowers and handmade pet food, too. Rotating musicians will also be performing during many of our farmers markets.

Catch the market every Saturday from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm through November 22.

Follow the market on Instagram at @washingtonctfarmersmarket for the latest news and updates.