Art & Exhibits in the Library
Santa Cruz Public Libraries provide exhibit space for art at branches across the county. We feature everything from ceramics to oil paintings to tapestries.
Abstract Paintings by Barbara Bailey-Porter
Aptos Branch Library , February 5 - May 4, 2024
My work expresses the power of art to communicate and transform. With color, light, and composition, I explore the possibilities that lie within abstract and non-objective painting styles. Painting in oil has always been my first choice. Oil paint has rich tones and a blendable quality that I find irresistible, and I developed a process of layering oil over acrylic to build transparent layers of color. Each painting begins with spontaneously placed lines that cross over the entire canvas surface using watered down black acrylic paint. This gives some structure to my beginning attempts at placing shapes on the canvas, which I do in thin brightly colored acrylic layers. I do not have a compositional plan or idea for the finished painting at this point. I paint intuitively, following my thoughts and feelings to decide what color and shape to use next. The impetus for painting comes from my need to process and communicate life experiences that celebrate the strength, resilience, and wisdom that can be found within each of us. Through my work I hope to evoke a sense of connection and empathy, allowing viewers to reflect, heal, and find solace in the shared human experience.
Artists of the SLV Art Tour
Felton Branch Library , April 1 - June 30, 2024
Artists of the SLV Art Tour have pieces in the Felton Branch Library display case and walls from April 1 to June 30. Painters, fiber artists, ceramicists, woodworkers, photographers, glass artists and more are represented. Plan to visit their studios during the 3rd annual SLV Art Tour on May 18th and 19th, 11am-5 pm. Many artists will be demonstrating their processes. Visit slvarttour.org for a map and more information.
Lauren Burke Art
Garfield Park Branch Library , April 1 - June 30, 2024
Our spring/summer featured artist is Lauren Burke, a Santa Cruz local, whose colorful animal prints highlight local wildlife. These cheerful prints brighten up our study room and draw attention to our abundance of native animals. Her medium of choice is gouache. She likes the ease of using it, its opaque quality and the forgiveness it offers. Her favorite subjects currently are animals, however she has painted landscapes, flowers and portraits. Lauren’s other passions include gardening, music, travel, and being in community with others.
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