County "Artist In Residence" Paintings In the Holden Gallery

Artist Richard Shearer’s paintings will be on display through the month of July in the library’s Holden Gallery. Mr. Shearer found inspiration in the photographs of the building of the Mt. Morris Dam in the 1950s. His abstract paintings echo and expand on an appreciation one has of the labor needed to create the dam. The work connects with the people of our valley — What has attracted those of us who came, decided to stay, and make our homes in this region? Stop in and enjoy! Be sure to sign the guest book and leave your impressions for Mr. Shearer.

Livingston’s First Artist-in-Residence To Speak July 12

On Saturday, July 12 at 2 p.m. , artist Richard Shearer will speak about his fascinating work, "This Ground." The program will be a joint presentation by Richard Shearer and Dr. Richard Young, of the SUNY Geneseo Geology Dept., exploring the nature of the Genesee Valley, the Letchworth Gorge and the Mt. Morrris Dam from two perspectives: that of the geologist and that of the artist. A collection of photographs documenting the building of the Mt. Morris Dam in the 1940s & 50s inspired Mr. Shearer to explore Livingston County through his creation of unique paintings. Richard Shearer grew up in Boston and now lives in Springwater. He studied painting and worked as an artist in Sweden for 12 years. Following his July 12th presentation with Dr. Young, his paintings will remain on display for the month. Mr. Shearer is an Individual Artist Grant recipient funded by a Decentralization Grant from NYS Council on the Arts with support from Governor Andrew Cuomo & the NYS Legislature, administered by Livingston Arts.

Young Artist Elise Mikhalya Featured in Holden Gallery

June’s artist in the Holden Gallery is Elise Mikhalya. Elise grew up in Nunda, and her works reflect the inspiration of nature and scenic views of our region. She prefers working with graphite, colored pencil and watercolor. She has been sketching since the age of 13. Her subjects involve fantasy, animals both wild and domestic, and various architectural structures. Her works have appeared previously at art or craft shows in the area.

Impact Survey Seeks Participants

Libraries in Pioneer Library System will conduct an online survey to learn how residents in the 4 counties of Ontario, Wayne, Wyoming & Livingston (OWWL) use their local library’s computers & Internet service. Go online to participate at http://pls-net.org/impact. The survey will be open between June 1 and June 22, 2014.

Book Sale Receipts At All-time High

The Library’s Dogwood Week 39th Annual Used Book Sale saw a total income of $3466.80, an increase of $784 over sales in 2013. Many visitors commented on the great selection available. More than 50 volunteers assisted with sorting, set up and sales during the week-long event. The Sale begins on the Monday following Mother’s Day each year.

Neva Smith Artistic Works Now On Display

The works of Neva Smith are now featured in the Holden Gallery for the month of April. Neva began painting in the 1950s and belonged to the Dansville Art Club whose membership included Louise Jones, Joyce Weidman, and Nora Wells. She painted in oils, acrylics, water color and even did some "tole" work. Privately owned paintings can be found at the Library and the Dansville Area Historical Society. This collection is organized by, and on loan from, Neva92s granddaughter Julie Guzzardi. Mrs. Smith died in 1979.

Clear the Clutter

Here are tips & tricks for spring cleaning at home & at work. April 5 at 10:00 a.m. attend this workshop with Professional Organizer Robin Bastian at Dansville Public Library. You, too, can live with less and gain more! FREE! Sponsored by the Friends of the Dansville Public Library.