Local artists Jo McGinnis and Francie Bergquist will display their works at Duncaster during December.

Jo McGinning – Vanishing Tide. Submitted image

The paintings of local artists and former West Hartford art teachers Jo McGinnis & Francie Bergquist will be displayed at the Duncaster Art Gallery during the month of December in a showcase titled, “Two Visions.”

There will be an opening reception for the exhibit on Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. The exhibit will be open Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Jan. 5.

McGinnis’ work reflects realism and her deep interest in nature. Her pastels give the viewer an intimate look at her subjects, capturing the small, often overlooked aspects of nature in vibrant color and exacting detail. By presenting subjects in large scale, McGinnis seeks to bring to the viewer’s eye the opportunity to discover, experience, and appreciate the nuances of each petal, leaf, pebble, or shell.

Bergquist uses vibrant color through paintings, fiber art, ceramic design, sculpture and illustration. She stated that her paintings “display a whimsical vision in elaborate celebration of color and delicate devotion to the people and life she loves.”

Francie Bergquist. Submitted image

Both artists pursued careers as art teachers in the West Hartford Public Schools. After retirement they focused their efforts on developing more fully as producing artists. Each has a studio in the local Connecticut area. Both women have exhibited in local and national group and solo shows and received many awards. Their works can be found in collections across the United States.

Attendance for the opening reception on Dec. 3 is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required. For more information or to make a reservation to attend the opening reception, contact Shelly Lombardo at [email protected] or 860-380-5006.

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