Animal Spirit: The Birds and Beasts of Beth Lowell

Bernardsville Public Library is pleased to present "Animal Spirit: The Birds and Beasts of Beth Lowell," an exhibition of paintings, during the month of April. The opening reception will be held on Sunday, April 3 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

A resident of Morristown, Ms. Lowell says of her art, “I’m inspired by what lies just beyond the seemingly apparent, for instance, what the dog is really thinking, or the wide spectrum of colors you can see if you look closely in reflections and shadows. I’m a fan of poetry because of its ability to translate an experience in a way that’s unexpected, fresh and vibrant. I strive to do the same in my paintings – to find and express exciting moments in the details of an ear or a paw through use of color in a way that transcends reality and captures the spirit of my subject.”

Ms. Lowell’s path began at age five with private lessons from a local artist who taught her the art of observation. She continued with classes at the Museum of Fine Art in Boston during high school and attended the Vesper George School of Art, also in Boston, under the tutelage of many leading artists of the Boston School. After earning a certificate in commercial art, she continued her education, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. In search of a green space she could call her own, she moved from New York City to New Jersey and eventually got her house with a yard, which was followed shortly thereafter by two dogs who inspired her animal centered work.

Ms. Lowell began using pastels in 2009 and her repertoire has grown from paintings of dogs to include everything from cats to rats and bats, and beyond into the realm of the still life. She is a member of The Canine Art Guild, The Pastel Society of America, The Connecticut Pastel Society, The Philadelphia Sketch Club, and the American Artists Professional League. Her work appears in both public and private collections internationally.

This exhibition will be on view April 3-28 in the library’s Community Room during regular library hours unless a meeting is in progress. For further information, please call the library at 908-766-0118.

Pictured: Mr. Rojas