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<\/a>By Beth Totten, public relations<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n(Canastota, NY \u2013 April 2014) For more than 30 years, Maria Seely shared her enthusiasm for creativity with elementary and secondary students.\u00a0 Her unusual way of looking at objects and their endless possibilities as works of art, as well as their challenges has always been how she strived to get her students to visualize.\u00a0 And, it is how she herself visualizes art.<\/p>\n
Recently retired, Seely now has the time to immerse herself in the creative process that she loves.\u00a0\u00a0 Seely\u2019s work will be on display at the Canastota Public Library during the month of May.\u00a0 An artist\u2019s reception will be held for the public on Tuesday, May 6 at 7 p.m. in the Lawson Community Room at the library.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would call myself a mixed media artist,\u201d said Seely, \u201cfor I am constantly exploring a variety of mediums to use within my works.\u201d<\/p>\n
Seely is currently creating with acrylics using texture, shape, color and movement.\u00a0 She rarely uses a paintbrush when working on her art.\u00a0 Unconventional objects such as her hand, twigs, spray bottles and outdated credit cards are just a few of the items she uses easily to create.<\/p>\n
Drawn to the abstract world of painting much like a jazz musician is attracted to improvisation, Seely uses her imagination with unlimited possibilities.\u00a0 The process is unpredictable and sometimes ever-changing.\u00a0 Seely constantly layers work over work, until she is satisfied with her results.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know the painting is complete when I step back and feel the delightful moment of \u2018wow.\u2019 The painting has come alive,\u201d Seely said.<\/p>\n
Seely decided early in her career to leave her artwork untitled.\u00a0 She feels that if she would title her works there might be some preconceived ideas about what she is trying to portray.\u00a0 Instead, she wants the pleasure of the piece to be shared and interpreted by the viewer.\u00a0 A dialogue of images, feelings and ideas allows the viewer to be open to what they see on the canvas.\u00a0 The final stage of her creative process begins with the viewer.\u00a0 Seely invites you to come to her opening and enjoy the dialogue.<\/p>\n
The Canastota Public Library enjoys featuring local artists.\u00a0 Seely resides in Sherrill with her husband, John.<\/p>\n