PETERSHAM – Three years ago, Royalston resident Gail Oswald had never picked up a paint brush or pastels. Now, starting this weekend, her paintings of local North Quabbin landscapes will be on display at the Petersham Art Center.
New to the area in 2013 from upstate New York, Oswald, an avid hiker, started to explore the area with fresh eyes and interest, she said. After snapping pictures of the local scenery, she said she felt the images deserved to be recreated into something beautiful, so, she decided to pick up pastels and found herself in front of empty canvases.
Throughout the past three years, Oswald has transformed the pictures she took of various landscapes throughout the North Quabbin into her own works of art. The Petersham Art Center is featuring more than 30 of her pastel paintings. There is an opening reception Sunday, Aug. 5, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Oswald has painted North Quabbin’s landscapes, from mountains to fields to icy rivers and summer trails. Residents may recognize some of the spots around the area, including the Quabbin Reservoir and Tully Mountain.
Oswald said she imbedded herself into the local community, joining the Board of Directors of Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust in Athol, volunteering at the Quabbin Harvest Co-op, and becoming a member of the North Quabbin Trails Association.
President of the North Quabbin Trails Association Bobby Curley said Oswald’s paintings capture the moment and time of the places she and many other hikers throughout the North Quabbin visit.
“She is bringing awareness, not just to the region, but to the local community,” Curley said. “She is making people here aware of what we have in terms of natural resources.”
President of the Petersham Art Center board, Nancy Allen, said the organization searches for regional artists and a diversity of artistic mediums for its gallery space each year.
“As a five-year resident in the area, Oswald brings a freshness of new eyes to our region,” Allen said. “She captures places we know well, but in her own way.”
The exhibit runs through Sept. 20. The Art Center is free and open to all. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday. For more information, call 978-724-3415.