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Love in a Frame: Gifting Art for Valentine’s Day
“Art must be an expression of love or it is nothing,” said the 20th-Century artist Marc Chagall, while author Leo Buscgalia believed “Life is our greatest possession and love its greatest affirmation.”
What better way to affirm the love we feel for our sweetheart than to express it with a Valentine’s Day gift of art?
That’s the attraction of the upcoming 'Art of Love' exhibition and reception at Central Street Gallery in Manchester-by-the-Sea, says Gallery Director Alison Rowell. The Gallery’s special reception on Saturday, February 11, 2012 will feature an assortment of chocolates, chilled Prosecco, and the best Valentine’s gift of all: art.
Valentine’s Day has a rich history of traditional gift giving for the ones we love. From chocolates and flowers to romantic dinners and weekend getaways, couples largely choose to express their feelings in ways that simply aren’t enduring.
The artists of Central Street have a more permanent – and emotional – alternative for you.
Says Rowell: ”Why not give the one you love a unique gift that will last a lifetime? An original work of art.“
So before popping into the flower shop for a dozen long-stemmed roses on February 14th, consider spending a bit more on a painting. While a bouquet of flowers soon wilt and die, a painting of flowers will last a lifetime.
Art is an appropriate gift for people in all stages of relationships, from those newly in love to couples celebrating decades of happiness. Falling in Love? When words are simply inadequate, art can express those feelings for you with sincerity and emotion.
”Unlike a nice romantic dinner, your Valentine’s Day gift of art isn’t a one-time event, but a rich reminder of your bond that grows in emotional meaning,“ says Rowell. “The art you give, whether small in scale or large, will enrich the recipient’s life every day in subtle and dramatic ways. It’s a constant visual reminder of your commitment to your relationship and its growing emotional ties.”
Want to show that special someone your complete commitment? Consider small intimate paintings: the true gems to dazzle and be admired.
Whether you want to deepen and honor your love, or simply keep the flame burning brightly, Central Street Gallery in Manchester-by-the-Sea has something to offer everyone in oils and pastels.
Art can remind your special someone of the place you met, where you have raised your children, spent a day at the beach together, where you vacation or meet for a romantic getaway. Regardless of what you choose, says Alison Rowell, you’ll have a view to enjoy forever and pass down from generation to generation with love.
“Once you’ve chosen the perfect painting for that Valentine’s Day gift, you can either purchase it outright for your loved one, or arrange a payment plan to make it more convenient or affordable,” Rowell says. “If you can’t quite decide, simply purchase a gift certificate. This would allow you to spend a romantic visit to the Gallery to choose the perfect gift together from a range of alternatives. Sometimes the shared experience of selecting the ideal artwork together – giver and recipient – can have as much meaning to you as the piece itself. It’s a special experience that builds your emotional connection and will provide lasting memories.”
Central Street Gallery of Manchester-by-the-Sea is a co-operative of 14 talented artists of diverse backgrounds and painting styles. The artist members are Ann Goldberg, Barbara Jones, Barbara Levine, Barbara Walsh, Charleen Onanian, Linda Jo Nielsen, Lynn Murray, Lynne Comb, Michael Storella, Phyllis Feld, Richard Giedd, Susan Kelley, Grace Vasta-Carr and William Fusco. They are united by a love of plein air painting and an appreciation of the beauty of Cape Ann. Works are available in a variety of mediums including oil, pastel, and watercolor. For more information, contact Gallery Director Alison Rowell at 978-526-7650 or arowell@centralstreetgallery.com.
Art of Love Reception
What: "Art For The Heart"
Featuring fine chocolates, chilled Prosecco and red hot art
When: Saturday, February 11, 2012 — 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Central Street Gallery
Who: All lovers (of art) and their special Valentines
Save: All reception-night purchases will receive a 10% discount
Uncertain: Gift Certificates will be available to go with that box of chocolates if you cannot decide!