Lakes Region Art Association at Vynnart in Meredith

One hundred paintings by fifty-six artists from the Lakes Region Art Association are now on display at Vynnart in Meredith.

By Kimberly J.B. Smith
Contributing Writer

Seventy five years, 56 artists and 100 paintings! The Lakes Region Art Association show at Vynnart in Meredith offers a wide variety of artistic style and medium, subject and approach. Located between the shops at Mills Falls and Main Street, the “Art Show” signs will lead you to an opportunity to immerse yourself in a visual bounty.
Hosted by Vynnie Hale, owner of Vynnart and a LRAA member, you will find Vynnie’s painting titled Northern Pass in the show.

Vynnie opened Vynnart in December of 2010. Surrounded by art, this businessman took to the brush and the rest is history, as they say. Vynnie loves to paint New Hampshire scenes, old New England barns (featured in the show), loons and other topics that remind the viewer of New Hampshire. Collectors who purchase one of Vynnie’s paintings can take a piece of New Hampshire home with them.
If you are not one to stroll into an art gallery, Vynnart is different. You will be greeted by Vynnie who is there on most days and is one of the most approachable people ever! Chances are, Vynnie will be painting at his easel, right next to the front desk. Vynnie will show you around if you like or let you take the visual journey on your own. Vynnie will answer any questions you might have and tell you about an artist or technique. No pressure, just enjoy the experience.
Artist statements are available at the front desk. What you will find is a variety of experiences that bring the artists to where they are today. Take artist Rob Caron. He can be found right down the street in an antique store / gallery on Water Street. Rob is a longtime LRAA member. Rob’s inspiration comes from perusing museums in England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain. His paintings demonstrate his interest in challenging compositions and use of color.

Another artist you will find at the show is Amber Mitchell. Amber is new to LRAA and recently returned to her art after obtaining a degree at PSU. That degree included a minor in fine arts and Amber has taken up the brush with artist and teacher, Carole Keller (full disclosure – I study with her too)! Amber’s painting titled The Secret Garden is a challenging subject with many textural features. The image leads the eye into the garden. Amber’s foray into oils is a conscious step into color after working in charcoal and pastel.

Other artists whose work you will see are: Jean Kennedy, present LRAA president and watercolor artist; Judy Palfrey, watercolor artist and artist of the month; Marian Federspiel, digital artist and winner of “Best in Show.” The full list of entry categories includes: Loran Percy Award (New England oil landscape), Oil Painting, Watercolor Painting, Acrylic Painting, Mixed Media, and Digital Art. Small studies by each artist are also available for $10 as well.
The Lakes Region Art Association show at Vynnart is on now through August 2. Located on 30 Main Street (Suite A). Telephone 279-0557. Hours: Mon – Sat 10 – 6, Sun 10 – 4.
Lakes Region Art Association website: lakesregionartassociation.com. Check out the Artist Showcase on left side of the website homepage.
Come see the show!!!

For more about Kimberly J.B. Smith visit her website at kimberlyjbsmith.com. You can contact her at artgirl@weirs.com