Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art presents ‘Created in Color: The Picture Book Art of Raúl Colón’
Amherst— From January 18th through June 1st, the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art (The Carle) presents “Created in Color: The Picture Book Art of Raúl Colón,” honoring the work of celebrated artist Raúl Colón, whose jewel-toned signature style of textured watercolor and colored pencil paintings are showcased in more than 50 books.
The exhibit includes images for tales inspired by the artist’s Puerto Rican heritage, biographies of Latin American heroes, and stories of activists who fought for justice, as well as books about creativity and poetry. Visitors can cheerfully follow characters through more than 84 artworks, as they journey from the African savanna to a magical library, the North Pole, and a museum where art leaps off the walls.
“A daydreamer since childhood, Raúl Colón has never stopped capturing the world around him or imagining new cinematic situations,” said Isabel Ruiz Cano, Associate Curator at The Carle. “Whether recounting a folk tale, an inspiring biography, or interplanetary journey, every scene Colón illustrates opens an entire universe to get lost in.”
“The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is dedicated to celebrating the artistry and cultural richness of creators from around the globe,” said Jennifer Schantz, Executive Director of The Carle. “By showcasing diverse perspectives and unique traditions, we aim to foster understanding, inspire creativity, and honor the universal language of picture book art that connects us all.”
The exhibit runs from January 18th through June 1st at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, located at 125 West Bay Road in Amherst. The exhibition texts are presented in Spanish and English. There is a gallery talk with Raúl Colón on January 18th from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. More information can be found online.
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Norman Rockwell Museum presents family activities and tours to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Stockbridge— From January 18th to January 20th, Norman Rockwell Museum invites the public to a weekend of meaningful, family-friendly events and interactive experiences in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his enduring legacy.
The Museum will host a series of family-friendly programs focused on civil rights, social justice, and activism, inspired by Dr. King’s powerful message of equality and unity. Norman Rockwell’s iconic works from the civil rights era together with portraits of Black women featured in the “Anita Kunz: Original Sisters” exhibition will be explored. The family programs will aim to engage visitors in discussions, storytelling, and art that highlights the contributions of key figures in the civil rights movement.
Throughout the weekend, there will be special family-friendly guided tours of Norman Rockwell’s iconic 1960s works, which captured the complexities of race, equality, and social justice in America. Learn how Rockwell’s art addressed the challenges of a racially diverse society and expressed his belief in tolerance and equality.
The special events are on January 18th through January 20th at the Norman Rockwell Museum, located at 9 Glendale Road in Stockbridge. More information including a full schedule of events can be found online.
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Bernay Fine Art presents ‘Wild Wonders: An Artistic Safari,’ a vibrant group exhibition
Great Barrington— From January 18th through March 2nd, Bernay Fine Art presents ‘Wild Wonders: An Artistic Safari,’ a vibrant group exhibition featuring the works of Stephanie Anderson, Alyssa Fanning, Phil Knoll, and Zohar Lazar.
Through their diverse styles, these four extraordinary artists explore the animal kingdom and imaginative landscapes with wit, bold creativity, and a touch of whimsy. From illustrations to dynamic, thought-provoking compositions, the show celebrates the beauty, personality, and wonder of creatures great and small, as well as the power of the imagination to transport us to otherworldly places. “Wild Wonders: An Artistic Safari” is a celebration of creativity and imagination, showcasing works that spark curiosity and highlight the dynamic perspectives of four remarkable artists.
The exhibit runs from January 18th through March 2nd at Bernay Fine Art, located at 296 Main Street in Great Barrington. There is an opening reception on Saturday, January 18th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. There is a closing reception on Saturday, March 1st from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. More information can be found online.
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Mad Rose Gallery presents ‘Assembled,’ a multi-media group exhibit
Millerton, N.Y.— On Saturday, January 18th from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Mad Rose Gallery presents an opening reception for ‘Assembled,’ a multi-media group exhibit, an inspiring and intimate evening celebrating art and creativity.
Meet the talented artists behind the works on display, hear their stories, and gain unique insights into their creative processes. Engage in meaningful conversations with the creators, learn what inspires their artistry, and discover the intricate details and emotions behind each piece. Experience the artwork up close in an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. The exhibit includes structures, photographs, drawings, ceramics, and fiber arts by artists Karen Dolmanisth, Michael Flower, Emily Fuller, Arthur Hillman, Bruce Panock, and Kim Saul.
The reception is on Saturday, January 18th from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Mad Rose Gallery, located at 5916 North Elm Avenue in Millerton, N.Y. More information can be found online.
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Stockbridge Library presents a screening of the award-winning film ‘A Book By Their Cover’
Stockbridge— On Thursday, January 16th from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Stockbridge Library presents a screening of the award-winning film “A Book By Their Cover,” which was inspired by local events.
“A Book By Their Cover” addresses a tween girl identifying their orientation, educating herself with a book, how the town reacts, and how this must stop being a covert awakening.
This is the first film by director John Tedeschi with The Continental Shoemakers, who create didactic-indie-film and screen at a strong collection of festivals and theaters. Tedeschi has directed opera, theater, fashion, and art shows which promote equality and empathy to elicit progress in humanity.
The screening is on Thursday, January 16th from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Library, located at 46 Main Street in Stockbridge. More information can be found online.
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Becket Arts Center offers improv classes with Ken Cheeseman and Paula Langton
Becket— For six Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., starting on January 14th, the Becket Arts Center is again offering a series “Intro to Improv” classes with Ken Cheeseman and Paula Langton.
Cheeseman, an actor who is currently a guest lecturer at Columbia University, and Langton, an actor and Professor Emeritus at Boston University, will show how to build a narrative through improvisational games, exercises, scene-setting, and story-telling. Cheeseman and Langton studied with, and were mentored by Keith Johnstone, author of “Impro and Improv for Storytellers.”
The classes begin on Tuesday, January 14th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Becket Arts Center, located at 7 Brooker Hill Road in Becket. Registration and more information can be found online.
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Dottie’s Coffee Lounge presents Jean-Guilmond (Sammy) Orelien, DrPH, MStat – local author of the book ‘Turning Water Into Butter: A Spiritual Memoir’
Pittsfield— On Sunday, January 12th from noon to 2 p.m., Dottie’s Coffee Lounge presents an opportunity to meet Jean-Guilmond (Sammy) Orelien, DrPH, MStat, local author of the book “Turning Water Into Butter: A Spiritual Memoir.”
“Turning Water into Butter” is a powerful exploration of the shared human journey woven through the personal story of Dr. Orelien (Sammy). With raw and candid storytelling, he delves into themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of love. This memoir is a heartfelt call to view life’s challenges – including heartbreaks and setbacks – not as obstacles but as essential catalysts for growth and self-realization. Through his reflections and lessons learned, readers are inspired to recognize their strength, turn adversity into opportunity, and live in harmony with their true essence: a life driven by love and purpose.
Dr. Orelien (Sammy) is a visionary leader, public health expert, and entrepreneur who empowers individuals and organizations to achieve transformative growth. As the founder of two pioneering companies, ScitoVation and SciMetrika, he brings a wealth of experience in business startups, organizational development, and leadership. Drawing on a deep understanding of science, psychology, and timeless wisdom, he guides others toward unlocking their fullest potential.
The event is on Sunday, January 12th from noon to 2 p.m. at Dottie’s Coffee Lounge, located at 444 North Street in Pittsfield. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. More information can be found online.
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Friends of Great Barrington Libraries presents a memoir and biography book giveaway
Great Barrington— Friends of Great Barrington Libraries ongoing book giveaway at the Mason Library now has a special table with dozens of gently used memoirs and biographies as long as supplies last.
You know you need another book and here’s your chance! Take a book – and donate if you can. And if you can’t donate, take a book anyway! Friends of Great Barrington Libraries appreciates donations in the form of cash, check, or Venmo. Contributions fund library programming, including library receptions, museum passes, and special programs designed for both children and adults.
For more information, contact the Mason Library at 413-528-2403.
