Stained glass, more on exhibit Friday
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Creativity will be in abundance come Friday, June 7, as crafters and artisans share their talents with those taking part in the First Friday Art Walk.
The Wintergreen Arts Center on State Street will join others in hosting the artistic endeavors of a variety of talented individuals.
“Our June artist is Kathy Cassidy, from Stained Glass by KLC, who will be featured in the Barresi Financial space. Special music will be provided by father-daughter duo Mark and Jordyn Shaw,” said Wintergreen’s executive director, Wendy Gilman-Zubrick.
The exhibit will be open from 6-8 p.m.
Cassidy, a Maine native, was born and raised in Presque Isle and attended the University of Southern Maine, before returning home to finish her bachelor of arts at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. After living in southern Maine, Boston and St. Louis, Cassidy and her husband, Dr. Don Cassidy, moved back to the Star City to raise their sons, Bennett and Brock.
“Throughout my life I have searched for an outlet for my creative energy. When I took a stained glass class five years ago, I knew immediately that I had found my passion. I furthered my knowledge and skill at the Phoenix Studio in Portland, taking advanced classes,” said Cassidy.
She creates a wide variety of glass art: traditional window panels, suncatchers, tiles, garden stones, jewelry and mosaics.
“In an effort to continue to grow, I’m constantly challenging myself with new ideas and techniques,” she said.
Cassidy says inspiration surrounds her.
“I find inspiration all around me. From the beautiful colors, flowers and animals in our natural world, to found objects often tossed aside or considered to have already served their purpose: empty bottles, old dishes and treasures washed up on the beach,” Cassidy said.
She said she’s honored to have had pieces exhibited in various stores and galleries in Maine and New Jersey.
“My work is currently on display at Visions Art Gallery in Houlton and Morning Star Art and Framing in Presque Isle. I look forward to being featured at Wintergreen Arts Center for the June First Friday Art Walk,” said Cassidy.
For more information on Cassidy’s work, visit stainedglassbyklc.com, or join her on Facebook at Stained Glass by KLC.
“I welcome any requests and inquiries concerning my art,” Cassidy said.
The Shaws share a great love of music and have performed at many functions throughout Aroostook.
“Mark and Jordyn both love strapping on a guitar and brining an old song to life or interpreting a new song in their own voice. They may do it with a splash of folk or blues or jazz or pop, but always with a generous helping of soul,” said Gilman-Zubrick. “They hope you have as much fun listening as they do in creating the music.”
Other businesses participating in Friday’s event include: UMPI’s Pullen Gallery/Art Department, located on the third floor; Catholic Charities’ Thrift Store on Davis Street; on Main Street; Copper’s Lounge at the Northeastland; The Whole Potato Cafe; Bou’s Brew Pub; Merchants on the Corner; Morning Star Art & Framing; Cafe Sorpreso; Hand Me Down Antiques; StarCity Coffee; and Swanson Law.
Officials with the Presque Isle Historical Society will also be offering a guided walking tour of the Historic Fairmount Cemetery at 2 Houlton Rd. beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Civil War monument. Parking is available across the street at the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce parking lot. Tickets are $5. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling 762-6300.
