The Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library will spotlight local artistic talent during an Artist Showcase Reception scheduled for Saturday, May 30, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the library’s main building in Shirley.
The public event will invite residents to meet area artists, explore a wide range of artwork currently on display at both the Shirley and Moriches library branches, and enjoy light refreshments while learning more about the creative process behind the exhibits.
Library officials said the showcase is part of the organization’s ongoing effort to celebrate and support artists throughout the Mastics, Moriches and Shirley communities by providing a welcoming venue where their work can be shared with the public.
“Our communities are home to an incredible range of artistic talent, much of which people may not realize exists right here in the tri-hamlet area,” said Lonna Castro, director of the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library. “Programs like this allow us to celebrate that creativity while offering artists a meaningful venue to share their work with the public.”
Maura Feeney, who coordinates the library’s artist showcases and cultural programs, said the event will feature a variety of artistic mediums and perspectives.
“We’re excited to bring together artists working in many different mediums, from photography and watercolor to quilting, jewelry and digital art,” Feeney said. “Meeting the artists and hearing about their inspiration adds another layer to the experience and makes the artwork even more meaningful.”
Featured artists include Tiffany Jenkins, whose infrared and solarized photography explores musical instruments and flowers; JoAnn Henn, creator of handcrafted needle-felted pet portraits; and the MMSCL Quilters, showcasing quilts created by members of the library community.
Other featured artists include watercolor painter Lisa Claisse, self-taught Unkechaug artist Isaiah Sheffey, Inuit art collector William Lauer, and shell jewelry designer Diane Schwindt.
Artwork will remain on display throughout May and June at the library’s main branch at 407 William Floyd Parkway in Shirley and the Moriches branch at 201 Montauk Highway in Moriches.