Tag Archives: visual arts

Artist of the Month: Jack Reilly

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Artist of Month pic Reilly

John Reilly is shown with his featured painting entitled “Coal Train.”

Jack F. Reilly of Bangor, who is the September Artist of the Month at the Dunmore Activity Hub, worked on the railroad for 42 years.

“After retiring in 2003, I needed to do something constructive,” Jack explains.  “My wife encouraged me to go to oil painting class with her.  Although I’ve never painted before, it seemed like a good idea that we could do something together. In the six years I have painted pictures of each of my children’s houses along with mine, and a few still lifes.”

Because there are only a few men in the class, Jack says that the ladies, along with their teacher, Jill Swersie, have given him the confidence to continue.

“The Dunmore Activity Hub has offered me the opportunity to make everlasting friendships that I hold dear in my heart,” he relates.

Jack’s very talented wife was featured as the July Dunmorean Artist of the Month, and their equally talented Dunmore relative, Maria Ragnacci was featured in August.  They, along with friends and family, can be seen sampling local restaurants after art class on Monday evenings.

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Upcoming:  Please plan to attend the Dunmore Activity HUB’s Community Arts Show, Oct 6 and 7. Show and activities will take place at 1414 Monroe Ave # B, Scranton, PA 18509.  For further information call: (570) 207-2662.

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Artist of the Month: Maria Ragnacci

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Artist of the Month Maria Ragnacci,jpgMaria  E. Ragnacci, the Dunmore Activity Hub Artist of the Month for August,  is an accomplished artist, as her displayed works testify.

Regarding one of  her featured paintings, “The Lady in Red,” she says, “I loved the colors, subject and motion in this painting.”

“I first started painting 40 years ago, for a short period of time, then took a break when I began raising a family of my own.  When I retired six years ago, I started painting again at the Dunmore Activity Hub.”

Maria explains that most of her paintings are from photos she has taken, from places she’s been, or from the collection of pictures provided by her teacher, Jill Swersie.

“ Our class is as much about friendships as it is about learning and improving our painting skills,” Maria points out. “The center is a place that makes everyone feel welcome.  It is a real treasure in Dunmore. There are so many activities that are available to all.”

Maria’s paintings and those of her colleagues will be on display October 6 and 7 at an art show at The Dunmore Community Center.  The public is encouraged to attend.

 

Artist of the Month: Patricia Reilly

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Artist of the Month - Pat Reilly

Patricia Reilly shows her featured painting entitled “Best Friends.” It depicts her grandson and his dog at a lake in Northern Michigan.

 

Patricia Reilly of Bangor is the July Artist of the Month at Dunmore Activity Hub. Her featured painting is of her grandson, Damian, and his dog, shown vacationing in Northern Michigan. Titled “Best Friends,” is shows them looking out at the lake from their pontoon, enjoying a quiet and peaceful moment.

Patricia started painting over 40 years ago.

“I took time out to raise my family, then six years ago my husband and I, who are now retired, joined the group of artists at the Dunmore Activity Hub,” she says. Her ideas come from things she sees in her family and friends.

“Joining the art class was, for me, the beginning of learning new techniques in oils, placement of the subject, using the proper brushes,” she explains. “We are taught by Jill Swersie.  She has given us guidance and encouragement to become the painters that we are. I have made so many new friends with the same interests as myself.”

“The Hub offers seniors a place to gather, meet new friends, experience new activities and brings for some a new meaning to life. Thank you, Dunmore Activity Hub!”