‘Grandmother’s Care’ by Carol Lee Thompson
On Sunday, October 7 from 1-4pm, Troika Gallery in downtown Easton will host “Why Art!” as part of A Women’s Weekend (October 5-7). A Women’s Weekend is a special event presented by Easton Main Street featuring more than 30 activities during the weekend.
As part of the event’s Sunday Galleries Tea, Why Art! will be conducted by Phoenix, Maryland artist Carol Lee Thompson. This free interactive “paint along” will feature Thompson demonstrating and discussing the painting process and the benefits of art for women of all life stages. The talk will focus on four categories: Why Art for Women, Why Art for Young Girls, Why Art for Elderly Women, and Why Art in Illness? As she talks, Thompson will bring up various volunteers to work on a copy of her painting. At the end of the program, the name of one of the attendees will be drawn and the “audience painting” will be awarded to the winner.
Thompson is one of more than 30 artists exclusively represented in the region by Troika Gallery, and one of the gallery’s most popular artists. A Classical Realist trained in the methods of the Old Masters, she is a full-time professional artist residing in her native Maryland but traveling extensively to paint and further her education as an artist.
Thompson explains that art has something to offer women at every stage of life. “Art,” she says, “is a universal language, an outlet and form of expression as women experience life changes. It raises self-esteem and improves mental health. It can help resolve conflict. Art enhances life, nurtures the spirit, and brings joy.”
Thompson’s artist friend, Mary Jo Kotwas, agrees. “Painting is a lifetime journey of learning and self-discovery. Each painting offers the excitement of new beginnings and of discovering new ways of seeing and communicating. The process keeps me infatuated, humble, and, best of all, young at heart!”
Through aging and life cycles, touch times, or tragedy, Thompson believes that art is a unique outlet for women. “Art has countless age-defying and healing aspects,” she says. “It reduces stress, produces positive coping strategies, facilitates expression and communication, and fosters emotional well-being. Art can bring healing and a sense of self confidence and freedom. It can unlock the past and celebrate memories. It is even used for diagnostic purposes.”
Sally Thomas, one of Thompson’s students who recently suffered the loss of her husband, says, “Art is going to get me through my sadness and bring to me a new beginning. Painting is what I have to do.”
Nancy Boyce an 89-year-old student of Thompson’s, says, “As I age, painting absorbs me entirely, so that any problems I might be struggling with at the time evaporate entirely. Also, being able to produce something worthwhile satisfies my need to be relevant.”
Carol McClees adds, “Art keeps me focused, vibrant, and alive. For me, painting makes my heart lighter and my countenance joyful. Even in the midst of grief and tragedy, art has been a comforting safe haven for my creative spirit. Transformation through creativity has been therapeutic, a true healer. Above all,” she adds, “I love art for art’s sake! Art is a catalyst for human emotion, making us whole.”
Troika Gallery is located at 9 S. Harrison St. in downtown Easton, and is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm and Sunday by appointment. For more information, call 410.770.9190 or visit www.troikagallery.com.
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