Inspired by the theme of “Artistic Passions,” Canton Artists’ Guild members present fascinating and highly original responses in sculpture, prints, drawings, paintings and photographs. The membership consists of over 100 juried artisans from one of Connecticut’s longest running artists’ guilds.

Mark Rich entitles his solo show, “Language is Foreign.” These pictures are filled with personal and intricate symbols that express his view of the human condition. Sometimes the paint is thrown on; other times carefully rendered. Oil paint, wax and pastel are combined to leave revealed underlying layers. The color and drawing support the characters in a story. Sometimes humorous and cartoon like, sometimes dark and political, different visual ideas float in and out of the picture. The result is like our thinking process in which ideas blend into each other to create other ideas. Rich attended the School of Visual Arts in NYC.

Also on exhibit is a group show, “Reconstructive Constructions.” The artists are Sue Berg, Diane L. Wright, Patricia Reese, Jon Eastman, Carol Kaplan and Audrey Mucci. They share their interest in assembling found objects into works of art. The selection and positioning of disparate pieces come together to create compositions with intriguing and sometimes puzzling resonances. Individual objects that in another context might be overlooked or discarded are magically transformed. Berg is a Professor of Art at Northwestern Connecticut Community College. Reese teaches art at Renbrook School.

The opening reception is Saturday, February 10th from 6:00-9:00 pm. Receptions with refreshments are free, and the public is warmly invited.

The Gallery on the Green, established in 1960, is the longest running artists’ guild in Connecticut. It is housed in a schoolhouse (circa 1872). There are three spacious galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden. The gallery is located near the intersection of Dowd Avenue and Route 44 at 5 Canton Green Road in Canton. Hours are Friday – Sunday, 1-5 pm. The main floor gallery is handicapped accessible. Tel. 860-693-4102 / www.galleryonthegreen.org / e-mail: [email protected].