Recently, Mann Orchards was the site of an eclectic art show featuring the work of local artists who met at the Methuen Senior Activity Center. Art was displayed by the fireplace. Art teacher and organizer of this show, Lisa Buglione, is eager to expand this opportunity to all Methuen artists to showcase artwork. This can include watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, fiber arts, quilts and artwork done in other mediums.
She was thrilled to give seniors “their time to shine” and share their creations with the public.
“Our art show this fall was a success and I’m glad that we are able to expand this to invite more artists to participate,” Buglione said.
Local artist John Igoe, 74, of Methuen, loved showcasing his recent portrait of friend Nancy Giordano of Methuen, who passed away earlier this year. He shared copies of his tribute painting to her with her family members, who cherished this gift.
Also a talented artist, Nancy was the one who suggested John join her at the Methuen Senior Activity Center to paint each week.
“She was a beautiful artist. She convinced me to come here and I’m proud to share my portrait of her,” he said.
Methuen resident Carol Naiman also loved having her artwork displayed at Mann’s.
“It was awesome. My family checked out my art. I had only displayed it publicly at the Methuen Senior Center’s art show a while back. I was excited for people in the community to see my painting – for once, other people seeing my work besides friends and family!” she said.
Buglione has worked teaching art to many in the region, from children to active older adults. Through the Methuen Senior Activity Center, she offers four sessions of painting at the center (open to all retirees, no matter your age). The next sessions begin in January. Sessions run 10 weeks and there is a choice of Monday or Wednesday mornings, from 10am-noon. In these sessions, students can work on any painting project of their choosing. Buglione will offer guidance on all of the projects. This is not a teacher-led class. Students of all abilities, from those new to painting to advanced painters, are welcome to join.
The classroom atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Group size averages a dozen people per session. Some participants come and are pretty self-sufficient, just looking for some critique, advice and guidance. Other people register and have never painted. They are offered a suggested supply list. To get them started on Day 1, Buglione has tools and supplies to borrow. All are welcome!
Senior Center Executive Director Sue Riccio is so happy that the center offers this program to seniors.
“Lisa Buglione is a fantastic teacher. The Methuen Senior Activity Center is grateful to have such a caring artist here. Painting is very special. It can bring you to any place that you would like to go. It can bring you to the highest mountain top … any place that you have wanted to visit, but never got to go,” she said. “Whether you are a seasoned painter or just starting, Lisa will be there to guide you every step of the way.”
Classes fill up quickly. Call the center at (978) 983-8825 to reserve a spot or to be placed on the waiting list. Winter session registration opens soon. Classes are open to Methuen residents and non-residents for a nominal fee.
