The Water Mill Museum kicked off their summer season on Saturday, May 31, 2014 with the 22nd Members Art Show. It included an art sale and a mill-grinding demo demonstrated by the warm and informative Joani Wilson.
There were 118 pieces submitted this year, which is thirteen more than the Museum has ever had. Over eighty artists from Manhattan to Montauk submitted their work to the Museum for display, an overwhelming reaction to benefit the historical landmark. All of the proceeds from the art sales and the donations benefit the Museum, which was built in 1644.
“It is important to remember that we are all volunteers here, and we do this out of love for our community and the people in it,” commented Ann Lombardo, who handles all of the Museum’s press, social media, and public relations. “I attribute this consistent massive community reaction to this fundraiser in part to social media. It has had a tremendous impact on the museum and our events.”
The artists involved in the sales vary in both skill level and style. For some, their art is merely a hobby. While other artists involved are professional artists. “I’m an award-winning artist, and I was taught by Bob Mumford, who taught at Southampton College,” said Joan Klutch, a featured artist. “And I taught Lisa Trivel, whose work is also featured here at the art sale.” It was very inspiring to see former students and teachers talking to one another as they each had their own artwork on display and for sale, and it is this type of community nature that makes this sale so special every year.
The Water Mill Museum is located at 41 Old Mill Road in Water Mill. For more information, call 631-726-4625 or visit www.watermillmuseum.org.