West Lafayette Library showcases local artists
WEST LAFAYETTE – If you are looking for a way to beat the winter blahs, plan a visit to the West Lafayette Library. Not only can you take advantage of a full service library, you will be able enjoy the creative talents of local residents. Each month, a different person’s art is showcased throughout the library.
Andrea Smith, manager of the branch library, said they started displaying art to bring a creative learning element to the library. Many people go to the library for information and seeing creative outlets enhances learning opportunities. Smith said, “Coshocton County has so many diverse, talented people that it seemed like a wonderful opportunity to show off their art.” She said the number of creatively talented people in the county is huge and has been since the county had an artist retreat.
The art displays are rotated every month and each artist will have between five and 10 items on display. The displays have included photography, acrylic paintings, watercolor paintings, pencil or ink drawings, wood and leather carvings. Any type of art is considered. The art is promoted on the library’s Facebook page so you can see what type is being showcased each month.
This month, the artist is Alyssa Hostetler. About a year ago, she decided to try painting and, after watching tutorials on the internet, chose acrylics because they seemed to be easier to learn. Her favorite subjects are landscapes or fantasy pieces, such as unicorns. Hostetler said she wasn’t sure her paintings were very good until she posted a few on Facebook and her friends loved them. She said she was urged to enter paintings in the county fair, but wasn’t confident enough at the time. Her boss mentioned the displays at the library and helped her contact Smith. Hostetler said she is excited to hear that people like her paintings and plans to continue painting with acrylics.
Debbie Haines will be the featured artist in February. In March, Jessica Rohr will be showcased, followed by Jim Huff in April. The West Lafayette Library is open Monday through Wednesday 11-7, Thursday and Friday 12 – 5 and Saturday 11 – 2.
Category: People & Places
