HEWLETT — CSEA members employed at Hewlett-Woodmere Library showcased their creative side in a library art show that displayed their work.
The show was the brainchild of CSEA member and Head of Youth Services Carolyn Lynch and the director of the library. The display showcased many types of art, including paintings, embroidery, and jewelry from library staff and teen patrons.
Originally, the art display was supposed to be a teen craft circle, but there were concerns that there would not be enough to showcase. After hearing a colleague say that she always wanted to have her art exhibited, Lynch suggested that the library include creations from the staff.
In total, CSEA library workers had 20 pieces in the art display, including one of Lynch’s paintings.
“We had a lot more pieces from the staff than I anticipated,” said Lynch. “I was pleasantly surprised.”
Other contributors
As part of her job, Youth Services Librarian Shannon Dalrymple helps children create and learn about artwork, so when the library decided to do an art show she was, “drafted right in.” In fact, one of the paintings she submitted to the art show was created alongside the children in one of her classes.
Library clerk Michelle Arias floats around the library, assisting librarians with whatever they need. She discovered her love for cross stitching when she received a magazine with a bookmark kit as a gift with purchase. Arias credits her art with giving her the endorphin hit she wants to keep her both happy and focused.
The art show contributor with the most experience is Julie Carrion, a jewelry designer who began making “mystic” jewelry with her Manhattan roommate “in the 1900s.” The duo sold the jewelry they created to well-known design houses, seeing some of their pieces worn by celebrities. Carrion is not a stranger to having her pieces displayed; her work has been exhibited at a nearby library, so when she was approached to showcase her work at Hewlett- Woodmere Library, she did not hesitate.
Members’ artistic contributions have not been limited to one show. CSEA members have painted several murals around the library, including large displays in the children’s section and in the enclave near the first-floor information desk.
Lynch would love for the library to do more art shows in the future, but it is difficult because the library music and art gallery is booked a year or two in advance. Still, library workers hope the library continues to be a resource for community needs.
“The economy is hard right now,” said Lynch. “Libraries offer a place of light where a family or individual can have a good time for little to no money.”
— Wendi Bowie