By J. L. Shively

For the month of Sept., the Caldwell Library hosted an art show which showcased the artwork from the Center for Family Support, CFS.
This show was on display in a showcase in the Meeting Room at the library from Sept. 1 to 30.
CFS is a not-for-profit human service agency, explains Library Director Claudine Pascale. CFS “provides individualized support services and programs for individuals living with developmental disabilities, and for the families that care for them,” explains Pascale.
As with all art shows held at the library, this show was free and open to the public. The exhibits are coordinated by Pascale and the library’s adult programming library assistant, Frances Larkey.
The idea for the display came from Caldwell Mayor Ann Dassing.
“She works closely with the Center for Family Support and approached me with the idea of providing them with a space to display their talents,” says Pascale.
CFS Art Therapist Christina Masur works with different individuals to help create pieces for this event.
“Several individuals have contributed to this show and each piece is a unique representation of their talents,” says Pascale.
Also on display with this exhibit was a large quilt which was made from separate pieces which were decorated by each of the individuals and their families, creating a true showcase of the CFS network of support.
Each month the Caldwell Library is host to a different art exhibit and some standing exhibits. Some of these are standing exhibits of showcase art from local groups such as the Essex Photo Club, student’s artwork from Mount St. Dominic, James Caldwell High School and the elementary schools.
Students of local artist, Margie Samuels are also on display at the library. At the conclusion of each year photos are displayed from local Caldwell history collection, according to Pascale.
These exhibits can be viewed anytime during the library’s regular operating hours, which are Mon. and Fri. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tues. to Thurs. from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wed. from noon to 8 p.m.; and Sat. from 9 a.m. to noon.
Following the CFS art show Caldwell Library is excited to exhibit the photographic work of Gene Collerd. Collerd’s photos of homes in Caldwell will welcome conversation and insight in the community.
“We are going to highlight the homes that we do not know the address of and invite the public to help identify the homes,” explains Pascale. This exhibit will run until Tues., Nov. 1.
For anyone interested in displaying an art exhibit at the library, contact Pascale at cpascale@caldwellpl.org or Larkey at flarkey@caldwellpl.org.