Artist's Open Studio hosts solar eclipse themed exhibit

NORWALK - Artists' Open Studio hosts a Solar-bration exhibit in honor of the upcoming total Solar Eclipse. The exhibit is set to open to the public on March 23 and will run until April 20. The themed exhibit will feature a collection of works from AOS and local artists with a "celestial" theme. It also celebrates its 20-year anniversary in connection with the Eclipse on April 8. "Our artists have been hard at work creating in response to the special theme," managing director Jackie Hug said. "It's been such a fun way to explore new concepts and ideas and share in the creative growth of our artists. As always, there will be something for everyone at this exhibit. Our artists have explored this theme through a variety of media and styles. At this exhibit, you will see collections of art ranging from illustrations, watercolor, acrylic, and oil paintings, functional and sculpture pottery, mixed media, and more." Local artists submitted everything from stained glass to mixed media collages. Submissions for the exhibit are still open until March 10. Anyone with questions or who would like to submit something can contact the studio at artistsopenstudio.inc@gmail.com On Saturday, March 23, AOS will host an opening reception for the exhibit from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. The event is free to attend and will feature their "glow gallery" which will have artwork under black lights and additional activities for visitors. The reception will also have live music from The Midnight Brothers from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. "We hope that having our opening day on March 23rd will allow our local artists and community to enjoy and celebrate together before a busy weekend during the main eclipse event in early April," Hug said. "We hope that visitors coming through the area can enjoy the exhibit as they are passing through Norwalk on April 8th. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our artists and Main St. Norwalk community." In addition to the original artwork for purchase, the studio will also have anniversary "Solar-bration" merchandise that is now for sale at the storefront. All items are handmade in Norwalk by local artists and volunteers, items include ceramic trinket dishes, hand-poured candle vessels, incense burners, jewelry, bags, mugs and more. All proceeds from these items go back to fund the studio.