Art Displays
Curious about local art? We are too!
When it comes to the arts, Nova Scotia is spoiled for talent, and we're pleased to feature local art in many of our Library spaces.
From The Sunroom at Central Library to art displayed in our branches, we want to give local artists space to connect with our community and share their vision.
Current exhibits
The Sunroom at Central Library
On display September 29 through November 10, 2024
Outside | Inside by Adam Lanigan
This set of photographs is an attempt to look at the city differently than I have in the past—stepping forward to get up close and personal to find little scenes, abstract shapes, and vignettes reflected in storefront windows in the early mornings before things opened up. This approach brings both sides of the street together in a single image - putting things together in a photo that are nearby, but never really touch.
Learn more about the exhibit., opens a new window
Alderney Gate Public Library
Information on next display coming soon.
Cole Harbour Public Library
On display October 2 through December 30, 2024
Art by Steve Townsend
Steve Townsend has had an artist’s eye from a young age. When he was a boy, he started sketching in charcoal. He studied photography and worked in that field for several years. He moved into television production and did camera and lighting for thousands of commercials and promotions.
He spends his free time studying the light, contrast, and colours of the natural world around him. Whether that be waiting for a cloud to cover the sun, or a good wave to hit the rocks—this method helps him bring his paintings to life.
J.D. Shatford Memorial Public Library
On display November, 2024
Art by Michele Edgerton
Michele Edgerton is a British-Canadian visual and stained glass artist. Her work commonly features the people and places she holds dear; serine coastline, beloved pets, and people in motion.
They are all in abundant supply on Nova Scotia’s south shore, where she lives and works overlooking the expansive Saint Margaret’s Bay. Michele is a member of the Aspotogan Arts & Crafts Group and annually takes part in the Peggy’s Cove Festival of the Arts. Michele has also featured her work as part of the Mental Health Association of Nova Scotia’s Mosaic for Mental Health fundraiser. When not painting or soldering, Michele can be found hiking the Rum Runner’s trail or holding a strong cup of tea.
“This collection covers three themes I am frequently drawn to. Firstly are places of note; landscapes that capture the imagination, tableaus that evoke vivid, often serine memories. Most importantly to me, there’s people of note; family, friends, and some strangers, all moving through, and interacting with, their environments with curiosity and sense of appreciation. And finally there’s my ideals of beauty; still lifes of animals, plants, flowers, all embracing the natural world’s wonder and artistry. In sum this represents a wide range of my acrylic painting over the past two years. Thanks to the JD Shatford Memorial Public Library for their support and the opportunity to share it with you all.”
Keshen Goodman Public Library
Information on next display coming soon.
Musquodoboit Harbour Public Library
On display October 10 through December 31, 2024
Flourish on the Eastern Shore, facilitated by artist Julie Adamson
Resembling flora from the Eastern Shore, Flourish on the Eastern Shore is a collective art project created by attendees of “Building Up Rural Community Mental Wellness: The 1st Annual Flourish Forum.”
The Flourish Forum is an all-day event, co-hosted by the Nova Scotia Health - Mental Health & Addictions Health Promotion team and the Well-Being HUB, about flourishing and embracing the strengths of rural communities in Nova Scotia. Paper leaves decorated with pieces of nature are connected by a vine made of words that represent what “flourishing” means to each person who contributed.
Sackville Public Library
Information on next display coming soon.
Tantallon Public Library
On display November through December, 2024
The Mutant Local, by Melanie Park
Melanie initially started her adult life in culinary arts. A freak accident cut this path short, and it was time to reinvent herself. She went back to school, earning two diplomas, then two degrees and started working on a professional designation. A move to Halifax gave her career path a new trajectory. All seemed to be moving along swimmingly, when we were thrown another curve ball - the COVID-19 pandemic.
To keep from going insane, Melanie purchased some acrylic paints and started painting random pieces of lumber found in the yard from a previous building project. What fun! She was hooked! Her pieces are bright and bold, and created with the purpose of bringing a smile to your face. She paints stuff on other stuff.
Welcome to The Mutant Local – all are welcome!
Woodlawn Public Library
On display November 2024, through January 2025
Art by Judith Orr
Judith started drawing at an early age, when, according to her mother, drawing kept her quiet and entertained as a child. Judith started painting later in life by taking a few watercolour workshops, but she is mostly self-taught.
Painting adds to a long list of interests, including the French Horn, bee keeping, travel, fitness, volunteer work, gardening, nature, and the environment.
Judith draws on many experiences for subject matter. She has lived in three provinces and has attended five universities. She has worked in dental hygiene, education, domestic violence support, biology, teaching piano, and farming to name a few.
"Painting can be very relaxing and outside your normal day-to-day. I encourage anyone to get out and try new things - like drawing and painting!"
Halifax North Public Library
Information on next display coming soon.
