Contemporary Landscapes by Merlyn Moreno
Aptos Branch Library, July 1- September 30, 2025
A resident of Santa Cruz County (Aptos & Soquel) since 1970, Merlyn Aronovici Moreno paints colorful celebrations of the natural world. Travels throughout the country and abroad have inspired the artist’s wide range of landscape subjects. Through the years, Merlyn has explored a variety of media & styles, always with a vibrant color palette and bold presentation.
Merlyn earned a degree in Fine Arts from Scripps College in Claremont, California, where she received the senior Design Award. She was a designer of silk screened greeting cards for Running Studio of Paso Robles for over 25 years and for her wearable art company, Merlyn Moreno Designs. The artist’s paintings have been exhibited in galleries statewide, and locally she has participated in Open Studios & Santa Cruz Art League events, including the juried All-California Landscape show. Many of her solo exhibits in local venues are sponsored by The Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County.
Merlyn’s first Aptos exhibit was the 10th Annual Rancho Del Mar Art Festival in 1973, where her painting “Tiburon” won first place! Coming full-circle, this exhibit at the beautiful new Aptos Library is a RETROSPECTIVE of paintings created from the 1970s to the present.
Artist’s Statement
My paintings are colorful celebrations of scenic landscapes, inspired by travels abroad and in the U.S., as well as the inspiration I feel living in this wonderful coastal community. Vibrant and bright, my acrylic on canvas paintings begin with visceral experiences in the natural world. My art is primarily created in the studio, with the aid of sketches, photos, and my memory of places visited. I paint my subjects by experimenting with color, light, line, composition and space as the work progresses. I enjoy working with acrylic paint, which is quick drying and versatile. Each work flows freely as an expression of my appreciation for the natural world.
- Merlyn Moreno
Healing Through Art and Community
Felton Branch Library, July 18- September 30, 2025
In 2023, 18 regional artists were selected for the first guided backpacking trip in Big Basin since the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Afterwards, they created an art piece in their chosen medium that reflected on their history with and hopes for the park. Artworks depicting artists' responses to the CZU fire will be on display in the library through September.
Whispers of the Wheel
Branciforte Branch Library, July 1- September 30, 2025
Rosey Angulo began her journey in pottery at the age of nine, captivated by the rhythmic motion of the potter’s wheel and the transformation of raw clay into something both beautiful and functional. Creating handcrafted pottery is a joyful, grounding process--One that she says,” Connects me to the earth through clay and to the present moment through touch.”
Throwing on the wheel brings a deep sense of calm and focus, a joy Rosey has carried with her ever since. She is especially drawn to the contrast between form and surface. Often combining smooth, flowing shapes with intricate carving, and bold, expressive glazes. Vibrant color plays a central role in her work. Glazing is both science and magic and the unpredictability of the kiln adds a sense of discovery to every piece.
Each form is a balance of planned precision and spontaneity, rooted in tradition but alive with personal expression. Rosey’s work celebrates imperfection, individuality, and the small joy of holding something made with care—objects that bring beauty, energy, and warmth into everyday life.
Gina Firpo Art
Branciforte Branch Library, July 1- August 31, 2025
Gina Firpo's art captures the beauty of the Santa Cruz mountains, where she lives. Friends describe her paintings as happy and uplifting.
Ginafirpoarts.com ginafirpoarts@gmail.com
