Arts & Entertainment
Art For Sale This Holiday Season
National Art League's Holiday Show showcases oil paintings, watercolors and sculptures fit for any art lover's Christmas stocking
There was electricity in the air at the National Art League in Douglaston on Sunday as excited member artists dropped by to submit their best work for the neighborhood cultural organization's 2010 Holiday Exhibition.
Over 48 members will present more than 120 oil paintings, watercolors and sculpture pieces, according to Grace Su, chairperson of the exhibition, which officially kicked-off this week.
"The holiday show is like a little gift to our members because it allows all of us the opportunity to exhibit our art — and hopefully sell our work during the holidays," said NAL member Mary Ann Klein. "There aren't a lot of other venues in the city that do that for us."
Find out what's happening in Bayside-Douglastonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
According to Su, the show is also an opportunity for members to sell their best work and for art lovers to buy work from their favorite artists at a good price.
"The focus for the Holiday Show is on giving member artists exposure and helping us to sell our art," Su said, adding, "we've been encouraged to handpick our most gift-worthy works."
Find out what's happening in Bayside-Douglastonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Carol Ann Pagano, who helped Su set up for the holiday show, was delighted to think that someone might purchase her painting, "Contemplation," as a gift this Christmas.
"It's an absolute dream to think that someone might enjoy it as much as I do," Pagano said. "That's why I'm exhibiting at this show, because it's all about finding your work a home."
With a diverse range of artworks on display, Su said she is sure this Holiday show will be a big hit.
"All of the member artists here at the NAL paint because we love it… And you can see this love in every item up for sale at this month's show," she said.
It's this passion for the craft that keeps National Art League members like Luis Caraos painting and showing his work.
"Painting for me is and outlet… my calling, and the Art league allows me to share my passion with the world." Caraos said. "My hope is that this passion comes through in my work."
The Holiday Show will run until Jan. 2. For more info, visit www.nationalartleague.org.