As we move into spring, many of Concord’s beloved cultural institutions are presenting new and exciting exhibitions, performances, and more. Some are live, others online. All celebrate the talent, vision, and creativity of Concord’s artistic community. Join them in welcoming spring!
Meet artists Ray Ciemny and Lynne D. Klemmer. In his free time, Ray loves turning discarded and unused metal into stunning works of art for homes and gardens. In her latest series, titled Redux, Lynne weaves Inuit, Aboriginal, and American folk-art references throughout her paintings.
On a cold winter’s day in 1982, Loring Wilkins Coleman (1918-2015) embarked on one of his favorite activities: driving around Massachusetts to look at old barns and houses. On the recommendation of his son Andrew, Coleman went to the town of Sterling in search of a “superb grouping of buildings,” and struck gold. “It was indeed one of the most handsome New England farms I had ever seen,” recalled Coleman. It took ten days to complete a detailed pencil drawing of the farm buildings, but it wasn’t until 2003 that Coleman finished his painting of the view.
Throughout history, people have turned to art for inspiration, solace, escape, and healing. Scientific studies around the world have confirmed what artists and art lovers have instinctively known: art has the power to heal. In fact, the National Library
of Medicine reports more than 23,000 articles on the topic of art therapy have been published in the past 10 years.
Concordian and self-taught sculptor Elisa Adams began sculpting in 2004. Her work is exhibited worldwide as well as in national museums and galleries, and she has won numerous awards. A practicing chiropractor for 35 years, she sees art and the healing process going hand in hand. “Art is so important in the healing process that in my office I have a rotating gallery for my patients to enjoy.” The main comment from my patients is, “I feel so peaceful from the moment I enter your clinic.” Elisa not only balances her professional life with art making, she is also the current President of the New England Sculptors Association.
Art is everywhere in Concord. As the weather turns cold why not spend an afternoon at one of Concord’s extraordinary galleries and immerse yourself in the world of art? Nothing better to chase away the evening chill than a lively concert, a compelling film, or a stunning theatrical performance at one of our talent-filled theatres. And don’t miss the holiday markets at Concord Art, The Umbrella Arts Center, or the Three Stones Gallery. From unique gifts to something special for yourself, celebrate the season with art!
Housed in the historic Emerson School building in the heart of the Concord Center Cultural District, The Umbrella Community Arts Center has, for decades, been a buzzing creative hub for the town. This September, following a complete renovation and expansion of the center, The Umbrella reopens as a contemporary arts complex that expands capacity for artists, students, performers, and audiences throughout Greater Boston and the Metro West region. Highlights of the new programming include:
Art is everywhere in Concord, West Concord, and the surrounding areas. Whatever your medium of choice - watercolors, ceramics, photography, or sculpture - the area’s talented artists and remarkable galleries invite you to explore the world of fine art. Autumn brings some of the most important exhibits of the year. Seasoned collectors, as well as those who may be new to the art world, can rely on these galleries to guide them in the right direction.
Many people visiting Concord Center for its historical, cultural, and shopping attractions may not be aware of its little sister on the other side of Route 2, West Concord. Fairly recently, buildings on this side of town were falling into disrepair and there was little to tempt a curious traveler. When I encouraged an old friend of my mother’s to join us at a music festival, she remarked, “In West Concord? In my day, we only ventured over there on Sunday afternoons, for charitable work.”