I was sitting in the gallery of the Newton Free Library a couple weeks ago after hanging my latest show, when it occurred to me how often I had been there before. Not specifically in Newton (though I had shown there in 2012), but in the art space of a public library. In fact, the first time I ever showed my artwork in public was in the Flora T. Little Gallery, a small, but inviting exhibition space at the Bridgewater Public Library. That was in 1981 and I had no idea what I was doing. I was fresh out of college, painting in an unheated studio in my garage (2Car Studio). I was eager and excited, though more than a little nervous to reveal my artwork to the masses. Little did I know I had stumbled upon the gentlest and most benevolent of venues - a public space where people who didn’t often visit commercial galleries could browse comfortably and without pressure. The space was unpretentious and honest and, because of this, patrons were at ease and incredibly engaging. I didn’t sell any paintings, but I did get a write-up in the local paper (www.printmedia.what?) and received all manners of commentary, both good and bad, all constructive.

Since that time, I’ve shown in many library galleries, including Lakeville (Great Ponds Gallery), Bridgewater State University (Wallace Anderson Gallery) and, as mentioned, Newton Free Library. All have been nothing but positive experiences, yielding exposure to many sets of eyes, thoughtful feedback and, yes, even a few sales. Suffice it to say, they have been an integral part of my artistic dialogue with the world.