Work That Is Deeply Grounded in Nature

Work That Is Deeply Grounded in Nature
Work by Don Bracken, including Out of the Ashes  will be featured in a show at the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon, Conn. Photo submitted​

The inspiration for Donald Bracken’s paintings made a 360 degree turn when he lost his studio on the 91st floor of the World Trade Center (where he was an artist in residence) and he came home to West Cornwall, Conn.

He had been painting New York City from hundreds of feet in the air, and studying the clouds that were sometimes below his feet. Now he is literally creating work from the ground up, and using dirt, stone and river sand from Litchfield County, mixed with acrylic gels. 

The resulting paintings are, of course, earthy — featuring trees and ponds and fields. 

The Hotchkiss Library of Sharon, Conn., has a show of his work that opens with an artist reception on the lawn on Saturday, Sept. 5, from 4 to 6 p.m. Small groups may enter to see the work inside.

The show will remain up until Oct. 31. Call the library at 860-364-5041 or email request@hotchkisslibrary.org to make an appointment to come in and see the show.

To see a broad view of Bracken’s work, including his sculptures, go to www.donaldbracken.com.

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