When Carley Nielsen was in high school, she wanted to hold an art show to display all her creations. Since there was no where to hold one, she decided to organize her own in the Cornwall Public Library’s community room. The Cornwall graduate is now giving back to her community and is providing space, inside her art gallery, for high school and college art students to display their work.
From 5 to 8 p.m., on June 16, at The Carley Nielsen Art Gallery, at 277 Main Street, the artwork of over 20 individuals will be on display. Some pieces will be exhibited outside, or throughout the Shops at 277 Main.
“I feel like that’s really important if you want to pursue art in the future,” Nielsen said. “Just to build up a portfolio or show you’ve had an exhibit before. That way colleges can see you’ve done something.”
Nielsen, a senior at Binghamton University, began organizing the event when the year started. She placed ads in the local newspaper and the “Chronogram” magazine, and posted on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. The Orange County Arts Council also listed the opportunity in their calendar.
Interested parties had until May 1 to submit entries, in case they wanted to create something new just for the show.
There was no restriction on the number of entries, but it was explained space is limited, so one large piece or a few smaller ones were generally accepted.
All mediums were accepted and the art show will feature a mix of paintings, photographs, drawings, sculptures, and graphic design work.
“Everyone is really grateful and excited,” Nielsen said. “There really hasn’t been anything like this before so everyone is very excited to come see all their work on display.”
Artists were asked to provide Nielsen with a title for their piece, a short biography, and a price if they’re interested in selling.
While art lovers will have to wait for the gallery opening to see all the works, Nielsen did offer a sneak peak.
Pam Ellick submitted a three by three-and-a-half foot oil and acrylic painting – a dreamscape in shades of pink and purple.
“She takes inspiration from her dreams and thoughts and created this wonderful painting,” said Nielsen.
Kelly Moran painted a re-creation of a “Calvin & Hobbes” comic strip featuring Spaceman Spiff.
If it’s successful, Nielsen said the art show could become an annual event.
