WESTFIELD-The art work of several local and regional artists will transform the Olver Transit Pavilion in the city’s downtown during a small holiday show in early December.
ArtWorks of Westfield, Inc. presents “Images: A Holiday Pop-Up Art Show and Sale” on Dec. 6 from 6 – 8 p.m. and Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the public transit site on the corner of Arnold and Elm streets.
“ArtWorks looks for locations in the downtown area to host art events that allows for ample parking spaces, easy access in and out of the building, and uniqueness,” said Cheryl Crowe, ArtWorks treasurer and event coordinator.
The building will be decked out in a holiday theme and lit up on Dec. 6 that will illuminate the area, according to Crowe.
“The Olver Transit Pavilion is an under-utilized building with so much potential to make it shine,” said Crowe. “It’s an odd building, but odd can be transformed into something spectacular giving it new life and a different viewpoint for all to see.”
Crowe credits Peter Miller, director of community development, for assisting ArtWorks with the project.
“Peter Miller was instrumental in the beginning communication with Paul Burns-Johnson, the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority’s director of transit operations, for opening the door for ArtWorks to host the small art event at the Olver Transit Pavilion,” said Crowe.
Crowe added that after meeting with Burns-Johnson, along with Lucille Nason, also a member of ArtWorks, he was on board to have a community event inside the building.
“Supporting ArtWorks by allowing them to use the space at the Olver Transit Pavilion is part of PVTA’s commitment to supporting our member communities,” said Burns-Johnson. “This event allows us to use the Pavilion in a way that enhances the experience for our Westfield riders and generates excitement in the community.”
Crowe noted the show will have seven artists in the limited space.
“It will be worth the time to come see the decorative event, meet the artists and purchase their talented work,” said Crowe, adding, “it’s going to be beautiful.”
Crowe noted the artists participating in the show includes Thomas Rickis, paintings and collage; Greta Redzko, paintings; Matthew Talmadge, photography; Kamila O’Neill, photography; Judith Sessler, watercolor; Donna Carmel, monoprints and scratchboard, and Andrea Piatti-Bruno, paintings.
The opening event on Friday night will feature refreshments and hot cider while area residents mingle with the artists.
On Saturday, refreshments will include “sweets” and a reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at 2 p.m. by city councilor Nicholas Morganelli.
“We thank our gracious sponsor, Westfield Gas & Electric, and our in-kind sponsor, PVTA, for allowing this event to take place for the benefit of the community,” said Crowe, adding, “thank you both for your generous kindness.”
