Prolific Artist Pursues Passion, Begins Painting — At 82

WESTHAMPTON BEACH, NY — The exhibit captures the soul of an artist passionate about his work and the world around him. He's prolific, having created more than 80 pieces in about five years. But there's one thing that sets him apart from his fellow painters — Ralph Downs, 87, didn't begin painting until he was 82 years old.

And now the community is celebrating his success: Surrounded by family and friends, the lifelong Westhampton resident stood proudly on April 19 in front of his paintings, displayed prominently in the Westhampton Free Library’s art display case.

When Downs began painting at the age of 82, he never imagined an exhibit anywhere. Now, however, anyone who passes through the Westhampton Free Library’s doors can view his work, which includes colorful landscapes and images painted on canvas and shells.

“This is wonderful,” said the Korean War veteran, who took up painting after participating in a painting workshop at the Southampton Town Senior Center.

Since then, he has painted more than 80 canvases and 100 shells, and he doesn’t foresee stopping anytime soon, library staffers said. He has hopes to sell his pieces and is working with the library to provide an instructional shell painting program for families in the fall.

“Supporting local artists and the arts is an important part of what we do here at the library,” said Library Director Danielle Waskiewicz. “The library is a integral part of the community, serving as a community center with opportunities for patrons to expand their horizons.”

In addition to featuring the work of local artists every month, the library works with community organizations to expand opportunities for artists. The library partners with the Westhampton Chamber of Commerce for an annual spring art poster contest and with Westhampton Beach High School for an annual juried art show.

Art workshops are also offered monthly at the library. On Wednesday, May 9, at 1:30 p.m., the library will host a “Pollock Drip Painting” class where adult participants can learn to design their own Jackson Pollock-inspired piece. Starting in June, adult patrons can participate in the Plein Air Art Club with artist Danuta Maryniak. Art workshops are also available for younger patrons. On Saturday, May 12, at 11 a.m., families can learn about whales from representatives of the Southampton Historical Society and then create a piece of scrimshaw art.

Photo courtesy of the Westhampton Free Library.