As Massachusetts has settled into winter’s monochromatic palette—a stark display of snow, asphalt, and empty branches—ArtSpace’s latest exhibition, “Parallel Play,” brings vibrant color, texture, and form to Nason Street.

The Concept: Learning & Making

The featured works all reference a class or workshop taken at ArtSpace, whether through medium, technique, or concept. While the pieces weren’t required to be created in the classroom, artists were encouraged to reflect on how these shared experiences impacted their process or sparked new inspiration. This collection of work from both instructors and students forms a “collective portrait” of the vibrant artistic community ArtSpace Maynard continues to foster.

Art as an Antidote

Winter in New England can be grueling. With daily highs barely breaking freezing, the cold can feel like it’s gripping your soul as much as nipping at your nose. Thankfully, art is a proven remedy. Studies show that engaging with art lowers cortisol (the primary stress hormone), reduces mental exhaustion, and can even lower blood pressure.

Your Winter Getaway

From abstract expressionism and printmaking to visible mending and ekphrastic writing, “Parallel Play” is your local getaway. We invite you to:

• Explore: See what our local artists have been up to.
• Engage: Ask about the pieces that pique your curiosity.
• Exhale: Sit in the sunny ArtSpace Gallery and see if you don’t feel just a little less “winter.”

Participating Artists: Barbara O’Brien, Bryan Clocker, Cindy Weinberger, Cortni Frecha, Denise Shea, Donna Melanson, Gail Erwin, Gwen Murphy, Kathy A. DeFlice-Secor, Karen (Ren) Myers, Laura Howick, Leslie Weintraub, Lydia Clancy, Priscilla Alpaugh Cotter, Rebecca Connors, and Sue Kim.