By Davy James, Staff Writer
CRANBURY — The Gourgaud Gallery in Cranbury Town Hall will host an artist’s reception Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. for The Gift of Expression, showcasing the artwork of Monroe resident Mary Ellen Brennan.
”It’s going to be a lovely way to spend the afternoon and it’s going to be something different for people to enjoy,” Ms. Brennan said. “I hope that by coming the people are transported to the places I want them to be.”
Ms. Brennan said her work features watercolors in four stages, flowers, the land and farms around us, the water and sea, as well as sketches she’s done in her various travels to other countries.
”I’m very fortunate to be able to do art because I love doing it and I spend a lot of time at it,” Ms. Brennan said. “The Gourgaud Gallery is giving me a great opportunity.”
The reception will feature food and drink and a 20 percent commission of each painting sold will go to a good cause.
”The gallery takes 20 percent to benefit the Arts Council and the gallery, which will go toward some summer programs,” said Amy Amico, chair of the Gourgaud Gallery committee. “It’s going to be a nice weekend event and people will get to enjoy downtown Cranbury. Plus, buying original artwork will boost programs such as our summer camp, art classes and our Art in the Park sessions.”
The exhibit will be on display throughout June. Ms. Brennan said she hopes people who come will be inspired to try art themselves.
”Painting and drawing put you in a different state of mind and you’re removed from the stress,” Ms. Brennan said. “It’s very relaxing when you’re concentrating solely on artwork. It doesn’t come easy and you really have to work at it. That’s the best part.”
