Beacons on the Shore - Spotlight on Lighthouses

Red House, Lee Swets

The response to our open call for lighthouse-themed art really blew us away! We had 41 artists of all ages submit their creations for the exhibition. On display now until August 30, visitors will see 62 unique pieces of art with a lighthouse theme. Lighthouses both real and imagined have been rendered in all kinds of art media from traditional watercolor and acrylic paint to pastel, wood, embroidery, leather, fabric and mixed media. And there is even poetry! The work is inspiring, and no doubt viewers will find something to be amazed by.

We invite the community to join us at a free reception for the artists and their families on Saturday, August 2 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the ACWL-Nuveen. The winners in the Adult and Youth categories will be announced as well as the Honorable Mention awardees in both categories. We asked Sara Johnston, the Site Manager of the White River Light Station, and an artist in her own right, to jury the show.

We would like to shine a spotlight on one of the participating artists and first time exhibitor – Michael Dickey. Michael took advantage of one of ACWL-Nuveen’s summer class offerings by signing up for Mary Jo Ernst’s – Sketch the Light Station Two Ways offered in June at Medbury Park in Montague. Medbury Park offered the students a great view of the WRLS and MJ instructed the students on how to use both ink and watercolor to render the scene. Michael is seen in the photo in front of his painting entitled, White River Light Station and Sailboat. His painting was created to honor the WRLS’s 150^th anniversary and the rich history of sailing in the White Lake area.

Michael Dickey in front of his painting (bottom right) - White River Light Station and Sailboat

We hope to see you Saturday or please stop by during our business hours to view the show Tuesday – Friday 11:00 – 5:30 and Saturdays from 11:00 – 3:00. We are located downtown Whitehall at 106 E. Colby Street. (231) 893-2524. A huge thank you to Winberg Construction for sponsoring this exhibit and to MJ Ernst for her generous donation of art supplies for the Honorable Mention winners!

Gannet Rock Lighthouse, Amelia Liskey Village Light, Julie Westmaas Guide My Way, Kanda Parrott