Local Larchmont Scenery Displayed in Public Library Gallery

Larchmont Public Library hosted artist William Greenlee Nov. 8 for a free art exhibit and meet and greet.

Greenlee is a former Larchmont resident, who now resides in Colorado at age 91. He started painting after college as a hobby and focused on it more after becoming architect. Greenlee began the Larchmont collection in Nov. 2013 with a completion of eight paintings all from the viewpoint of the harbor. He has also done other artwork of western scenes and portraits.

The collection had a unique aspect because of the focal point. Rather than painting the view of land to water, Greenlee did the opposite. In order to do this, Greenlee hired a captain and motor boat to cruise the harbor. During times of low tide, he would go out and photograph the various scenes from which he painted.

Working on a canvas, Greenlee used oil and acrylics to make the photos he took come to life. He described his technique for this gallery as impressionist and not of a detailed nature. Another distinction in this collection was the use of a herring gull. In each painting, Greenlee had this bird appear at least once.

Although Greenlee now lives in Colorado, he has an emotional connection with the town of Larchmont.

“We were raised in Larchmont,” said Greenlee. “We used to sail the harbor.”

Greenlee also said that he married his wife, who passed away three years ago, in Larchmont. This is another connection that Greenlee has with the town.

The memories of sailing the harbor and other favorite local spots inspired the unique focus of the artwork. Once of the pieces in the collection was his favorite residential area Beach Avenue. In the description of the painting, Greenlee says that he often passes by the area when visiting Larchmont.

The people that came to this event were able to enjoy complimentary wine and cheese to go along with the viewing of the artwork. Greenlee spoke individually with each guest or group that walked through the gallery and introduced family that joined him at the event. A son, daughter, and three of six grandchildren were present to help with the showing of the artwork.

Greenlee enjoys painting as a way to pass the time rather than a way to make money.

“It keeps you busy,” said Greenlee. “It's just something I like to do. They’re not for sale or anything. If somebody wanted to buy it, I’d probably just give it to them.”

Greenlee also talked about having another gallery with the Larchmont Public Library using his western paintings. Greenlee though that it would be interesting to show something other than the scenery of the town.

The Greenlee art exhibit will remain at the library until Nov. 29 for the public to view.