"View of Darien from Scott's Cove" by Peter Arguimbau.

Darien Library is pleased to announce the art exhibit opening and reception of the Marine Art Exhibit, curated by the Darien Library Art Committee . Featuring works represented by the Geary Gallery and Quester Gallery, the opening and reception will be at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 14 in the Library’s Art Gallery.

Featured artists include Peter Arguimbau and A.D. Blake, who are represented by Tom Geary of the Geary Gallery, Darien, and David Bareford, William Bishop, and Anne Jayson, who are represented by Michael Florio of Quester Gallery, Rowayton.

Additional independent local artists will also be exhibiting.

The opening reception will also feature a brief, informal talk by Peter Arguimbau.

Marine Art is regarded as one of the most popular forms of fine art. In practice, it takes many forms, including painting, drawing, printmaking, beach scenes, and all art showing boats.

One of the exhibiting artists at the Library show, Anne Jayson, will be displaying her “Sailors’ Valentines.” “Sailors’ Valentines” are octagonal wooden boxes displaying symmetrical designs composed mostly of seashells. Originally, these were sentimental souvenirs that sailors in the 1800s brought home to their loved ones. Today, they are considered collectables and a valued art form. (Pictured below, left is "Rowayton" by Anne Jayson.)

All of the artists who will be exhibiting at the Darien Library Marine Art Exhibit are prominent artists known for their outstanding works of art. The works of Peter Arguimbau, David Bareford, William Bishop, and A.D. Blake are a fine representation of Marine Art oil paintings. They range from historical maritime scenes to yachting events, harbor scenes, landscapes of sea, shoreline, and beach scenes.

Peter Arguimbau paints in the Flemish style. He grinds his own pigments and makes his own paint, allowing him to create dramatic light effects in his works. Tom Geary of Geary Gallery describes the effect as “luminous” and “beautiful” and says that the style “presents more intimate aspects of the sea.”  Geary states that his “heart is in Marine Art - it captures the spirit of maritime life – the majesty and serenity, the energy, and the brilliance.” (Pictured above, left,  is "View of Darien from Scott's Cove" by Peter Arguimbau.)

Quester Gallery, which is recognized as a leading authority on fine Marine Art and antiques, is owned by Michael Florio. Florio, when speaking of artist David Bareford, said that the artist insists upon the authenticity of his work - “David travels a great deal for his art. (Painting shown above, right, is by David Bareford.) This contemporary artist has the unique ability to ‘capture the moment’ and the timeless beauty of our nautical heritage and history.” He added, “Ocean scenes, boat, and harbor views have been and continue to be very popular.”

The Marine Art Exhibit will run from May 14 through June 11. The Art Gallery is located on the Library's Lower Level.

 Additional parking for evening and weekend Library programs on Thorndal Circle (behind Nielsen’s).