VISUAL ARTS

Joan Paley has illustrated ten children’s books, eight of which we are now featuring in our current exhibition. She paints large pieces of paper with brightly colored washes and then cuts shapes from these and other textured sheets she has collected. Next, she cuts and pastes these cut papers to create the enchanting creatures and settings in her books. She says, “I’m happiest when I’m surrounded by paint, brushes, crayons, pencils, fabrics, textured papers, and a pair of scissors. With each piece I strive to create a dimensional sense of environment and character.” Alice Means has been quilting since 1994 and has made almost 200 quilts. Several of her quilts have won awards throughout new England and Florida, and at national shows.