Art Through The Looking Glass

by Sarah Teach

Have you ever marveled at a work of art and wondered, “What was this artist thinking when he or she was making this?”  Artists Association of Nantucket brings you the chance to peek behind the curtain of the mystery of creating art.  On Wednesday, Aug. 24, beginning at 11 a.m., you are invited to experience Portable Studios and Artist Demonstrations at the Joyce and Seward Johnson Gallery.

Come watch individual artists demonstrate their favorite techniques during this special opportunity designated for you to connect with the artists and ask questions in a casual, friendly setting.

August 24 will feature three island artists, all of whom are members of AAN: Lois Werthheimer, Katherine Miller, and Miki Lovett.  Come watch Werthheimer, a Registered Art Therapist, create sculpture from any of her choice materials that include wood, alabaster, marble, and limestone.  Next, witness master painter Miller at work on some oil pieces.  She reveals a bit of her creative process within her artist statement: “I paint because it is the most enjoyable and effective form of communication for me… I create freedom within structure.”  And thirdly, come see the surprising (and messy!) process through which Lovett creates her unique marbled silk scarves.  No two are ever alike, so these silk beauties make the classiest of gifts.  Lovett’s one-of-a-kind creations can be the accessory that pulls together that great outfit, or they can even be framed behind glass and displayed elegantly on the walls of your home.  Be prepared to fall in love with her collection; you may not be able to resist bringing one home!

“The Portable Studios are a great for visitors to meet our artist members and see them at work on their art,” says AAN gallery sales manager Peter Greenhalgh.  “Intended to be fun and informal, the Portable Studio is held on Wednesday when the gallery is traditionally quiet.  It gives people plenty of time to chat with the artists.” 

Founded in 1945, AAN has a long history of promoting the work of its member artists, presenting classes in the visual arts, and preserving Nantucket art in its historic Permanent Collection.  To learn more, visit www.nantucketarts.org or call 508-228-0722.