"Mj Manville Art - Southcoast Landmarks and Whimsy" Final Day Reflections

Today is the day I will be taking down my recent art exhibit, "Southcoast Landmarks and Whimsy", at the Mattapoisett Library, and I am reflecting on what an amazing experience it was. While I have had pieces of my artwork displayed, in other venues, this was the first time I hosted my own exhibit, entirely made up of my own work. From the show title, to choosing what I would display and how I would display it, this show was all Mj Manville Art.

I chose forty eight pieces, to be displayed within the two reading rooms, along the tops of the book shelves. Sixteen pieces consisted of artwork created for the 2024 BayCoast Bank calendar. These paintings, of landmarks along the southcoast, were actually giclée art prints, of my original work, which were displayed in one of the rooms. I chose to create 8x10 prints, to ensure that all sixteen pieces would be uniform. I framed them all in matching black frames, with white mattes, and matching stands. The second reading room, consisted of a compilation of my work. From watercolors, to sea glass art, and even two handmade, papier-mâché, Halloween lanterns! I also had to create all the description cards, to accompany each piece. I printed out the copy (for all forty eight pieces) and mounted it onto colorful handmade paper. Then I displayed each description, next to the artwork, in a small acrylic frame. Although all pieces were for sale, through inquiry, prices were not listed, as the library did not handle sales. That said, I did sell two pieces! Another part of the exhibit, was my onsite, pet portrait demonstration/ meet and greet, which was a lovely experience. At that time, I had an opportunity to be interviewed by a local reporter, which resulted in a wonderful conversation.

On this final day, as I reflect back on this entire experience, I am very thankful. Last April, I was quite surprised, to be contacted by the Mattapoisett Library, regarding their request for this October exhibit, but I am so happy to have had this experience, and I truly appreciate having another opportunity to share my art with others.

As always, I thank you all for your interest in my work!

Peace,

Mj

Pictured: "Mj Manville Art - Southcoast Landmarks and Whimsy"

Pet Portrait Demonstration, at the Mattapoisett Library -

October 27th