Good writers paint a picture with words. Now, the library wants to see those words come alive.
Photographers, painters, sculptors and more are invited to show off their work at the first Elements of Inspiration art show, hosted by the Alachua County Library Headquarters branch.
Keli Conroy, the head coordinator of the art show, said anyone 18 or older can submit his or her art piece to any Alachua County Library branch from June 1 to Aug. 18, but the work must include a literary quote.
The library, located at 401 E. University Ave., will hold the art show from Sept. 2 to Sept. 30.
Submissions will be displayed on the wall outside of the Foundation Room of the Headquarters branch.
“I think Gainesville has a lot of artists, and this is an opportunity for them to share their work and inspiration,” Conroy said. “We want people to be inspired by literature and remind them of what a great place the library is.”
The artwork has to be 18 inches by 18 inches or smaller, and the staff will be attaching Velcro to the back of the piece to display it on the wall. She said the library will even accommodate multimedia pieces.
“Everyone’s art will be shown,” Conroy said. “You can do anything as long as it can be hung up on the wall.”
The Elements of Inspiration art show coincides with the theme of the Adult Summer Reading Program this year, which is Literary Elements.
Sylvia Ashwell, the director of the Adult Summer Reading Program, said this is the second year for the program, which will be held from June 5 to Aug. 17.
“I hope it makes them jump on the Adult Summer Reading Program,” Ashwell said. “As long as people read a little more than they usually do, I’m happy.”
Other branches have held similar events for children and teens, but this is the first adult-oriented art show at the Headquarters branch, said Nickie Kortus, marketing and public relations manager for the library district.
“It’s fun to look at what other people have done, and I want to see what adults have to show,” she said.
Kortus, a recent dabbler in watercolor and acrylics, said she might consider submitting art of her own.
“Maybe it will inspire me to finish some of the paintings I’ve started,” she said.
Elle Wood, a 19-year-old UF creative photography sophomore, said she also plans to submit a painting.
“Books are tending to get outdated with my generation, and a lot of people don't seem interested in reading anymore,” Wood said. “I've always loved the power of quotes mixed with art, so it’ll be fun.”
