Westfield Art Association selects artists for new Artist-in-Residence Program at Westfield Memorial Library
The Westfield Memorial Library and the Westfield Art Association are pleased to announce that two artists have been chosen for the new Artist-in-Residence program at the library. The Westfield Art Association is a non-profit volunteer organization founded in 1922 that provides public art education and public exhibitions.
The two artists selected for the inaugural residencies are Jennifer Wilner and Kiyanna Lawrence. Wilner’s residency will be May 1 through July 30, followed by Lawrence’s residency November 1 through January 31.
A BFA graduate in Communications Design at the Syracuse University School of Visual and Performing Arts, Wilner had a 30+ year career as a graphic/web designer.
Since leaving the corporate world, she has been involved with multiple artistic activities in Westfield. She created a five-year Art Appreciation program for Tamaques Elementary School, her artwork is displayed in many public spaces, including the Tamaques Park Pavilion, and a painting of hers is currently part of the Westfield Central Avenue Public Art exhibition.
Kiyanna Lawrence is a graduate of Rider University with a degree in Graphic Design and Video Game design. Currently the Founder and Creative Director of Agapes Art, Lawrence specializes in leading mindfulness painting workshops aimed at helping individuals connect with inner creativity. She is also the art and workshop curator for Casa by Cherry Home Designs.
The Artist-in-Residence program brings Westfield’s talented local artists to the library for the entire community to enjoy through talks, hands-on workshops, and studio hours.
“I truly believe that seeing art and recognizing the work of an artist makes peoples’ lives better,” says Darrin Owens, President of the Westfield Art Association. “I hope that many people take advantage of this free program that the library is so graciously sponsoring.”
“I see the library as a microcosm of the community,” says Allen McGinley, Library Director. “So I’m delighted that we’re able to bring our talented local artists into the library to share their passion and creativity with residents of all ages.”