Arts & Entertainment
Local Artist Donates Painting to School
Bethlehem Elementary School is now home to an original mural donated by Woodbury artist Linda Boston.
Photo by Dan Denver. Group Picture Names Left to Right: Susan Ruddock, Principal, Finn Farrelly, Sophia Gargulio, Matthew Penrosa, Linda Boston, Artist, and Gabby DiStefano; Train photo with Linda Boston, Artist
LOCAL ARTIST DONATES PAINTING TO SCHOOL
Bethlehem Elementary School is now home to an original mural donated by Woodbury artist Linda Boston. The 8' high painting entitled “Iron Horse 24” was created in May of 2017 for use in the climactic train scene of the musical melodrama Tied to the Tracks. The artist chose the number 24 for the steam engine in recognition that there were 24 cast members in the show.
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After six performances staged by producer-directors Lois and Don Fiftal for the Community Theatre at Woodbury, artist Linda Boston sought to identify a local site where the painting could be enjoyed by local residents, especially children. “We were determined not to let Linda Boston's work as an illustrator just disappear into storage,” said show director Lois Fiftal.
Upon learning that “Iron Horse 24,” was available, Principal Susan Ruddock, offered to make Bethlehem Elementary School a home to the painting for the enjoyment of students of Regional School District #14. “Linda Boston's mural is really unique,” said BES Principal Ruddock. “It provides children insight into how artwork plays a role in theatre, and it's different than the art that is commonly produced by or shared with elementary students,” she added.
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“I couldn't be more pleased than to donate this work for the pleasure of children in Region #14,” stated the typically humble Ms. Boston, who is the owner of Boston Pot and Tile in Woodbury. However, she is no stranger to illustration as she learned that art form with her father, Robert Boston, a professional advertising illustrator whose work often appeared around the Detroit area and featured in Ford (Motor Company) Times.
Community Theatre at Woodbury President, Loryn Ray, summed up the donation best when she noted that “I can think of no better way to share the arts within a community than to have this hand-painted rendering from one of our musical productions find a permanent home in our local school system.”
Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department, 7 Mountain Road, Woodbury, CT
