KENT— An exhibit, Bright Visions,” by Thomas Franken is underway at Kent Memorial Library through Oct. 31.
The show may be seen at the 32 N. Main St. library during regular library hours: Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Franken’s portfolio encompasses a variety of media, including paintings, silk screen prints, collages, creations in wood, and graphic design.
Presented in this show are more than 15 new paintings, all created in the past year.
Also in this show is a diverse selection of the artist’s favorite works from past years.
His creations span abstract and impressionistic styles.
The artist said his works embody the strong use of colors and geometric themes.
Inspirations for his paintings come from his imagination and travels, and many are influenced by the dynamic landscapes of the American Southwest, while others draw from natural settings in northeastern United States, as well as Europe, he said.
“I want my work to be enjoyed and enrich the lives of people who come to view it,” the artist said. “I like when people have differing interpretations of my art and make a personal connection.”
The artist has also evolved a unique style of artistic woodworking, which results in imaginative one-of-a-kind constructions that combine both decorative and functional elements.
These “woodscapes” highlight the beauty and variety of natural wood, supplemented by the artist’s signature painting style, he said.
Over the years, Franken has created original lines of silk-screened holiday and greeting cards, some exclusively designed for The Metropolitan Opera and UNICEF, with others sold in fine specialty retail stores.
He lives and works in South Kent and is on the Kent Art Association Board of Directors.
The reception for this art show has been postponed until further notice.
