The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Artists gathering marks 17th year
“Rarely can so many artistic treasures be seen under one roof. This type of exhibit greatly benefits art enthusiasts, because it offers an enormous variety of artwork at affordable prices.” Mally DeSomma, art show founder
LITCHFIELD — The annual art show, A Fall Gathering of Artists, returns to the Litchfield Firehouse on Route 202 for its 17th year on Columbus Day weekend, once again bringing a four-day exhibit of artwork to the public.
This event, which continues to draw audiences from the tri-state area, features approximately 40 award-winning Connecticut artists and artisans.
This year, they will display their latest creations, including original paintings, prints, photography, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, handcrafted woodwork and fused glass.
The exhibit will be open to the public on Columbus Day weekend from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday.
A special artists’ reception, featuring art demonstrations and refreshments, will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7.
“Rarely can so many artistic treasures be seen under one roof,” said Waterbury artist Mally DeSomma, who founded the show and has been running it since 2000, in conjunction with the Fine Line Art Gallery in Woodbury. “This type of exhibit greatly benefits art enthusiasts, because it offers an enormous variety of artwork at affordable prices.”
DeSomma noted that the event also
benefits the artists, who often are present during all or most of the show.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to view each other’s work, share technical knowledge, and learn from one another,” she said. “It also gives the public a chance to get to know the artists and experience their creative vision firsthand. It’s really a win-win event for everybody.”
Among those returning to this year’s event will be Southbury artist Lorraine Skelskey Chapin, who brings life to her landscapes by modulating light, color and form. A plein air painter, her passion is capturing scenery that speaks to soul, she said.
The pottery of Debbie Altschwager of Collinsville also will be on exhibit. She specializes in primitive firing techniques, including raku and smoked-fired vessels.
New to the show this year are Weston’s John Forgione and Southbury’s Leigh Graham.
Forgione’s desire to paint is driven by a true love of nature and art. He says he takes great satisfaction in recording time, light and form, en plein air, inspired by the French and American Impressionists.
Leigh Graham’s jewelry is handmade bead embroidered and bead woven jewelry for customers who wish to enjoy one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art designed to get attention. Her handwoven scarves and shawls are crafted from her sheep.
The Litchfield firehouse is at 258 West St., Route 202 in Litchfield. Ample parking is available. Admission is free. Contact Mally DeSomma at 203-574-3954 for more information.