The City of Carlsbad libraries offer an active exhibit program with the primary mission of showcasing the work of artists residing in San Diego’s North County and sharing the visual arts experience with visitors of all ages. The latest display at Dove Library features the works of mixed media artist, Penny Friedman. At Cole Library, the works of impressionistic realism painter Catherine Clancy are currently on display. Beginning Dec. 5, paper collages created by artist Meera Ramanathan will be on exhibit.
Friedman, a local artist, creates paintings inspired by the beauty that she sees and the love that she feels. “I paint from a place of pure joy, channeling the energy of the universe from my heart,” explains Friedman. She was deeply moved by a week rafting on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon which translated to the canvas. This series of paintings, Spirits of the Grand Canyon, currently on exhibit at Dove Library were inspired by her experience. Through her artwork she conveys themes of beauty, hope, love and healing.
Clancy, also a local artist considers herself an impressionistic realism painter. Her journey as an artist began mainly focused on drawing and painting in pastel, until she hit a plateau and quit art altogether. It wasn’t until she saw her daughter’s whimsical drawings that she became reignited to pursue art again. Clancy switched over to oils and hasn’t looked back since. She enjoys painting people, animals and still life. Nature inspires her to paint outdoors and put onto canvas the beauty she sees.
Image: Catherine Clancy, One Powerful Rhino, Oil Painting
Ramanathan, an artist, visual art teacher and a small business owner, creates paper collages that have been featured in several exhibitions. Her works deal with subjects which are often mundane and ordinary; things that we look at every day and take for granted. Her aim is to raise these items to a higher level as she believe there is so much beauty and uniqueness in them. “I think of my paper collages as an ode to the normal and typical and strive to elevate these objects,” explains Ramanathan. Her works Felines and Canines is a collection of pets belonging to her friends. Their stories, the love their owners share with their furry friends and their personalities inspired her to create this series.
Image: Meera Ramanathan, Daisy, Paper Collage
Who: All ages
When: Monday -Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 – 5 p.m.
Where: Dove Library, 1775 Dove Lane
Cole Library, 1250 Carlsbad Village Drive
Admission: Free
