This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
By Mandy Froelich / The Longmont Observer
Approximately 413,271 veterans live in Colorado. On Saturday, February 1, 2020, supporters of the arts had the opportunity to review fresh artwork, as well as support the men and women who served the United States, in downtown Longmont.
The Beyond the Light gallery was held at the Allstate Insurance Building at 201 Terry St. Franco-American artist Tisha Wood and exhibiting fine artist Mike Reynolds coordinated the event.
Featured paintings were displayed by artists who have been traveling and creating together for years. According to Wood, the expertise level is mixed. Some participants are recognized nationally while others are just getting started in their careers.
Two separate rooms showcased the work of Margaret Bobb, Howard Fischer, Elaina Danielescueruss, Elizabeth Ault, Elsie Wiltkins, Lilian Kennedy, and Arlene Cohen Miller.
Photo credit: Mandy Froelich
In addition to showcasing talent, Woods and Reynolds have created a healing workshop for veterans at the Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango, NY. The theme for 2020 is A Veteran’s Pallet. The workshops, which are sponsored by Wood, have two purposes:
- To showcase artists' paintings
- To support veterans
The latter is accomplished in two ways. First, 10% of the sales profits are donated to the Veterans Association. Secondly, affirmation and support are provided through the Scarf Project for veteran women.
“We’re hoping to get more people to get involved with what we’re doing because it leads to other things,” said Wood during a phone interview. “Whether they’re in their retirement phase or doing creativity for the first time in their lives, it’s just an important part of our community.”
The neo-impressionist French artist also teaches a petite artist class which is 100% free. The idea is to introduce kids to creative expression at an early age. “It’s not a daycare, it’s a serious fine arts class,” said Wood. “They learn the traditional fine art and do wonderful things.”
When asked how receptive the Longmont community has been compared to other cities, Wood said: “Hosting the actual studio space where the artist's work has been absolutely wonderful. Having been raised in France, our culture about studio and studio work is very open and very different and very supported.”
Wood continued:
“It’s been amazing having space (currently located in a science building). We love being downtown; we support each other; we support material. We tell people, ‘Just come! Don’t buy anything, and just immerse yourself in that time and learn some creativity. We’ll support that. If that gets going for you, then you can go out and purchase things.’ But we feel like it’s very, very important and it certainly has changed lives — including our own.”
“One lady started at age 83 — now 88 — and is still painting. Our veterans are amazing people; all walks of life; all areas of service. It changes lives!” Wood concluded.
Photo Credit: Mandy Froelich
