PREVIOUS SHOWS

Embrace MV | June 1 - 22
Opening Reception: Sunday, June 1, 4 - 6PM

As we approach June, welcoming summer and the celebrations of Pride, Father's Day, Juneteenth and more, we invite artists to participate in our upcoming exhibition Embrace MV. This open themed show honors Martha's Vineyard and the many nonprofit organizations supporting our community, with a portion of art sale proceeds being directed to each artist's nonprofit of choice. This is your opportunity to help meet the needs of our Island and embrace Martha's Vineyard! Art sales commission for this show will be 55% to the artist, 35% to Featherstone, and 10% to the selected Martha's Vineyard nonprofit.

The Art of Flowers Wonderfully Floral | May 4 - 25 (Closed Memorial Day)
Opening Reception: Sunday, May 4, 4 - 6PM

A perennial favorite, THE ART OF FLOWERS will showcase beautiful bouquets and blooms in the Francine Kelly Gallery during the month of May. Individual, wild, in gardens and vases, flowers will be depicted in a plethora of mediums.

For the Birds | April 6 - 27 (Closed Sunday, April 20)
Opening Reception: Sunday, April 6, 4-6PM

Mass Audubon’s Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary and Featherstone Center for the Arts flock together to celebrate the art, beauty, and function of wild birds. This artistic flight of fancy will highlight local and worldwide species, encouraging the creation and purchase of art inspired by these creatures of land, sky, and sea. Soar with us on an adventure to learn about their habits, homes, and history through collaborative programming for adults and children.

Events:
Saturday, April 5, 10AM-12PM: Bird House Building at Felix Neck
Sunday, April 6, 4-6PM: Opening Reception at Featherstone
Saturday, April 12, 10-11AM: Creature Feature: Owls at Featherstone
Saturday, April 26, 8-9AM: Accessible Bird Sit at Felix Neck

Plus, bird themed Children's Art classes at Featherstone:
Saturday, April 12, 11:30AM-1:30AM: Crafting: Birds (ages 6+)
Saturday, April 19, 2-4PM: Ceramic Exploration: Birds (ages 7+)

Muse | March 9 - 30
Opening Reception: Sunday, March 9, 4-6PM

What inspires you to create? Is there a person that moves you or the natural beauty of the Island or a particular memory that sparks joy?

Tickled Pink and Peach (Pantone Peach Fuzz) | October 15 - November 3
Artists Reception: Sunday, October 20, 4-6PM

"PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It's a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul. In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless."
— Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director at Pantone Color Institute

Inspiration in the colors pink and peach! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Pink October. Pantone's 2024 Color of the Year is Peach Fuzz. Featherstone welcomes artworks in all media that include a touch of pink or peach.

Photograph by Bob Avakian

The Art of the Horse & Horse Farm | September 8 - October 6
Artists Reception: Sunday, September 15, 4-6PM

"The horse is a universal symbol of strength, endurance, beauty, and the enduring connection between humans and nature."

In celebration of Featherstone Farm and the many horse farms on MV, equestrian art will fill the Francine Kelly Gallery in September! We are seeking art (from all disciplines) representing all things related to horses and horse farms.

“The Me I Must Remember” by Delita Martin, 2024, Relief printing, liquid gold leaf charcoal, pastels, acrylic, hand-stitching, and printed papers, 59 x 63”

DELITA MARTIN "Sometimes My Blues Change Colors"
July 28 - September 1
with Guest Curator Dr. Myrtis Bedolla
Opening Reception: Sunday, July 28, 4-6PM

Artist Demonstration:
“Beyond Layers: Relief Printing and Pronto Plate Lithography”
Tuesday, July 30, 10AM-2:30PM
Come enjoy a unique creative experience with artist Delita Martin in Featherstone's Printmaking Studio. You will be able to watch the artist as she creates 10 limited edition prints which will be available for sale during her exhibit. Delita will be engaging with and taking feedback from the audience during the process.

Artist & Curator Talk:
Wednesday, July 31, 4-5PM
As part of the exhibition's programming, Martin will engage in a conversation with Dr. Bedolla. This dialogue promises to provide invaluable insights into Martin's artistic process and inspirations, offering attendees a deeper understanding of her visionary creations.

Artist & Curator Talk with Reception:
Thursday, August 1 at 4PM with reception following, at 5PM
A conversation with Delita Martin and Dalila Scruggs, Smithsonian American Art Museum's Augusta Savage Curator of African American Art, discussing Elizabeth Catlett's art and legacy.

The exhibit marks a historic milestone as Delita Martin is the inaugural African American artist to present a solo exhibition in the Francine Kelly Gallery at Featherstone Center for the Arts. Curated by Dr. Myrtis Bedolla, this groundbreaking exhibit, opens its doors on Sunday, July 28th, from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

As part of the exhibition’s programming, Martin will engage in a conversation with Dr. Bedolla during an Artist Talk scheduled for Wednesday, July 31st, from 4:00 - 5:00 pm. This dialogue promises to provide invaluable insights into Martin’s artistic process and inspirations, offering attendees a deeper understanding of her visionary creations. Events are free and open to the public.

Additionally, a program in collaboration with the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) will take place on Thursday, August 1st, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Martin and Dalila Scruggs, SAAM’s Augusta Savage Curator of African American Art, will discuss Elizabeth Catlett’s art and legacy.

RISING UP! A Multi-Cultural Celebration of Stitched Fine Art
June 23 - July 21
with Guest Curator Michele Beasley Maloney
OPENING RECEPTION
Sunday, June 23, 4-6PM

CURATOR TALK
Wednesday, July 10 at 4PM

The work displayed in “Rising Up! A Multi-Cultural Celebration of Stitched Fine Art” is the product of artists working in a wide variety of media, all connected by the integral use of stitch, all employing stitch as a crucial manner of mark-making in their work. Some of the works use fabric, others use different materials: plastics, found objects, waste, paper, twine. Some use the techniques and vocabulary of art quilts and traditional quilting. All use modern 2D/3D construction, design, and compositional thinking that go far beyond the centuries-old traditions of women’s anonymous stitching of fibers and fabric for domestic and decorative purposes. These are transformational works of fine art, bringing new media and fresh perspectives to the attention of the mainstream contemporary art world. Featherstone is delighted to present Rising Up!’s wide range of works, techniques, voices, and artistic outcomes. The makers represented here are diverse in other ways as well: in age, ethnicity, race, and materials. This diversity is the core from which spring’s the show’s celebratory dance of color, image, and content. Each artist is her own radical departure from tradition; all pushing toward artistic ingenuity and invention from their varied perspectives. We hope you enjoy.

FEATURED ARTISTS
Alice Beasley
Michele Beasley Maloney
Earamichia Brown
Shin-hee Chin
Chiaki Dosho
Pamela Flam
L'Merchie Frazier
Sharon Havelka
Natalya Khorover
Paula Kovarik
Karol Kusmaul
Susan Lenz
Caroline MacMoran
Wen Redmond
Linda Syverson Guild
Jaleeca Yancy

PRESS
Featherstone Celebrates Stitched Art Vineyard Gazette, June 20, 2024

Garden Gate's 25th Anniversary Show | June 2 -16
Opening Reception: Sunday, June 2, 4-6PM

Garden Gate Child Development Center at Featherstone is celebrating an important milestone this spring - our 25th year serving children and families in our island community! Please join us by submitting your original art and/or participating with your students/youth in our art exhibit in the Francine Kelly Gallery at Featherstone, The 100 Languages of Children: Celebrating Creativity and Community, from June 2 - June 16, 2024.

The exhibit is open to all Garden Gate Alumni, and all Island youth. Submissions for the show can include paintings, drawings, sculpture, pottery, handicrafts, textiles, glasswork, jewelry, etc. We hope to highlight the diversity and creativity of our incredible students, alumni and Island children and youth. gardengatemv.org

THE ART OF FLOWERS | May 5 - 26
Opening Reception: Sunday, May 5, 4-6PM

Spring is upon us and our thoughts shift to new beginnings, longer days, sunshine and FLOWERS! Let nature be your inspiration for blooms of every type, in every medium. This is a perennially popular show, so one piece per artist, please!

Photograph by Denys Wortman

TAKE FLIGHT - A LOOK FROM ABOVE | April 7 - 28
Opening Reception: Sunday, April 7, 4-6PM

An artistic eye sees the world through a different lens. We invite you to let your creativity take flight and share your perspective from above. Not limited to drone photography, this show will incorporate works featuring an aerial perspective and A Look From Above.

FOR ARTISTS:
All disciplines welcome. Artists may submit up to two NEW pieces in any medium, not previously shown at Featherstone.
Pick Up: Tuesday & Wednesday, April 30 & May 1: 10AM-4PM

MVC@50 | March 10 - 30
Opening Reception: Sunday, March 10, 4-6PM
Additional Special Celebration: Thursday, March 14, 5-7PM honoring the many Islanders who have participated over the years.

Join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Martha’s Vineyard Commission, the planning and regulatory agency for Dukes County. Created by an act of state legislature following an Islandwide vote in 1974, the MVC has worked to preserve the Island’s natural, historical, ecological, scientific, and cultural values through a regional lens. An informative look at the Commission’s past and present, including major milestones and archival material will be on display during this special exhibit.

Watercolor by Lynn Hoeft, from 2023 exhibit "Love Lives Here"

LOVE LAUGH LEAP LIVE! | February 4 - March 3
Opening Reception: Sunday, February 4, 4-6PM

Featherstone continues its annual tradition by opening the exhibition year with a love themed show in celebration of Valentine’s Day. 2024 is also a leap year! We look forward to seeing your latest creations as we ring in 2024 - a year full of love, joy and a leap into your creative pursuits in living your best life!
“We are very near to greatness: one step and we are safe; can we not take the leap?”— Ralph Waldo Emerson

SUMMER CELEBRATIONS AND REFLECTIONS
September 17 - October 29
Opening Reception: Sunday, September 17, 4-6PM

Sun and fun! Weather of all kinds: heat, winds and rain. Full moons, majestic clouds, warm light and the colors of nature provide fresh inspiration everywhere. Relaxation and healing, activities and amusement, creativity and imagination, inside and outside...tell us your best of summer story

COLLIDE with Guest Curator Kara Taylor | August 6 - September 10
Opening Reception: Sunday, August 6, 4-6PM

Here 23 artists come together in a multitude of expressive mediums, each unique to themselves and their country of origin. In COLLIDE we celebrate the cultural diversity, both transient and native, that is unique to South Africa.
COLLIDE is curated from a personal perspective, a community of creatives I formed while living and working part time as an artist in the beautiful city of Cape Town. Many of the artists I work among at Side Street Studios, others through mutual friends or gallery representation; all of whom I admire, exhibiting: skill, dedication, intention and technique.

We cannot predict who and where we may meet certain people in certain places, how our individual worlds may COLLIDE - It can be fortuitous, and unexpected, and if you’re lucky, incredibly inspiring and miraculously diverse.

Wednesday, August 30 at 4PM
Curator's Talk with Kara Taylor
"From the Curator's Point of View"
featuring visiting artists Elad Kirshenbaum and Sophia Van Wyk from Cape Town, South Africa

This talk and presentation will include a visual journey into the artists' studios in central and southern Africa whose work is featured in COLLIDE, from the curator's point of view.

EL BARRIO & BEYOND:
A Celebration of Latinx Culture with Guest Curator R. Michelson Galleries | July 9 - July 30
Opening Reception: Sunday, July 9, 4-6PM

Almost 20% of the US population, roughly 65 million people, identify as Latinx. Their ancestry is Mexican, Brazilian, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, Guatemalan, and other South/Central American or Spanish cultures. Yet until recently, Latinx children have had little chance to see themselves in Picture Books, Museums, and popular culture. The Pura Belpre Award, given to "a Latino/Latina writer and illustrator whose work best portrays, affirms, and celebrates the Latino cultural experience in an outstanding work of literature for children and youth" wasn’t established until 1996. Even today, when we hear of Latinx book illustrators it is often in reference to their work being banned. We hope this exhibition helps to further proclaim the power and beauty of work by Latinx artists.
Learn more about the participating artists here.

EL BARRIO & BEYOND: A CELEBRATION OF LATINX CULTURE
Schedule of Events

Sunday, July 9 from 4-6PM
Opening Reception

Tuesday, July 11 from 10AM-12PM
Raul Colon Workshop: Painting with Colored Pencils
Raúl Colón will demonstrate his imaginative, distinctive style of using colored pencils and his “scratching technique” to bring his award-winning artwork to life. Participants will be encouraged to make their own illustrations using simple, easily-found tools. For Adults and Children 13 and older. The 2 hour workshop is $40, registration available here.

Wednesday, July 12th at 4PM
Gallery Tour with Richard Michelson

Thursday, July 20 at 4PM
A Poetry Reading with Martin Espada and Rich Michelson

Friday, July 21 at 10AM
Poetry, Politics, Banned Books, and Trigger Warnings: A conversation and Q&A with poets Martin Espada and Rich Michelson

TIMELESS | June 4 - July 2
Opening Reception: Sunday, June 4, 4-6PM

TIMELESS celebrates the work of 31 Island women artists over the age of 80 who are still working and producing artwork today.

Ceramics by Liz Huss / Books by Ursula Goodenough / Dollhouses by Floy Miller / Jewelry by Andrea Hartman / Knitting by Caryl Dearing / Paintings & Mixed Media by Renee Balter, Helene Barr, Gloria Burkin, Nancy P. Cabot, Rosemary Casey, Claire Chalfoun, Eva Cincotta
Alison M. Convery, Rose D. Gates, Lyn Hinds, Chetta Kelley, Ruth Kirchmeier, Doris Lubell, Jean McCarthy, Marianne Neill, Marie-Louise Rouff, Joan Margot Smith, Katy Upson, Penny Weinstein / Paper Art by Sandy Bernat / Photography by Julie Jaffe, Alida O'Loughlin / Quilting by Charlotte Cole, Linda Hearn, Enid McEvoy / Sculpture by Ilka K. List

VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE ART OF FLOWERS
(click image then bottom right corner to enlarge video):

THE ART OF FLOWERS | May 14 - 29
Opening Reception: Sunday, May 14, 4-6PM
It is that time of year again! Calling all Island artists for artwork submissions to our annual THE ART OF FLOWERS show! As the days become warmer, we are seeing hints of spring, with daffodils sprouting and hyaciths blooming. Use nature as your inspiration for floral creations in any medium. This is a perennially popular show, so one piece per artist, please!
"The annual show provides a fabulous, colorful launch to their summer exhibit season." Read more about the exhibit in the MV Times article Beautiful Blooms.

While you are visiting the show, be sure to visit the Schule Chapel Gallery just outside of the Art Barn, to view The Art of Flowers Through the Eyes of Children.

TEXTURES AND PATTERNS | April 2 - May 7
Opening Reception | Sunday, April 2: 4 -6PM
Bring on all of the textures and patterns to the next show at the Francine Kelly Gallery. From rippling waves, reflective windows, beautifully quilted textiles and everything in between. Featherstone invites artists to submit a maximum of two NEW pieces never shown at Featherstone before.

"Texture and pattern should function as a surprise." ~ Robert Denning
"I am covinced that abstract form, imagery, color, texture, and material. convey meaning equal to or greater than words." ~ Katherine McCoy
"Art is the imposing of a pattern on experience, and our aesthetic enjoyment is recognition of the pattern." ~ Alfred North Whitehead
Read more about the show in this week's MV Times article 'Textures and Patterns’ open to interpretation.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF LOVE LIVES HERE
(click image then bottom right corner to enlarge video):

AN ABUNDANCE OF COLOR | March 5 - 26
Opening Reception: Sunday, March 5, 4-6PM
Color has always been a focal point for artists. Featherstone has hosted annual shows featuring your interpretations of a specific color: Red, Blue, Purple and yes, even Silver and Gold. So for 2023, why not take on the entire spectrum and let you decide which color or colors inspire you! An Abundance of Color welcomes all mediums with a maximum of two submissions per artist.

“Color! What a deep and mysterious language, the language of dreams.” Paul Gauguin
“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way - things I had no words for.” Georgia O’Keefe
“I prefer living in color.” David Hockney
“Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.” Pablo Picasso
“All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites.” Marc Chagall
“Color is my day-long obsession, joy and torment.” Claude Monet
Read about the show in the MV Times article Find 'An Abundance of Color' at Featherstone

VIRTUAL TOUR OF LOVE LIVES HERE
(click image then bottom right corner to enlarge video):

LOVE LIVES HERE | February 13 - 26

For the first time in three years, Featherstone will open the Francine Kelly Gallery in February! As tradition has dictated, our first show of the season has focused on love: Kiss Kiss Hug Hug, RED, I Love Art. So many of us love Martha’s Vineyard! Our love focuses on the power of place - the beaches, the farms, the forest, the sea, the night sky as well the connection to people and our community - our families, friends, neighbors and of course our visitors. Show us how you interpret Love Lives Here - all mediums welcome with a maximum of two submissions per artist.
Read about the show in the Vineyard Gazette article The Art of Love Takes Many Forms.
In the MV Times article Love Lives at Featherstone Center for the Arts

Read about the exhibit in the MV Times article DEFINING 'THE FALL' (click image below):

THE FALL curated by Tanya Augoustinos | October 9 - November 4 Open 11AM-4PM each day
Opening Reception: Sunday, October 9th, 4-6PM

THE FALL is a contemporary art exhibition featuring 20+ Martha’s Vineyard artists working in a variety of mediums, including a site-specific installation.

As the bustling summer party settles and we move towards balancing ourselves in sync with the deciduous trees dropping their leaves after nature’s pause on the equinox, it’s time to regroup, take a deep breath, slow down and align ourselves with the coming transformation of fall.

Our harvest palette includes dark grays and black to provide depth, definition and shading; white and light grays to highlight; with a splash of color to represent new beginnings. The selection of artworks encompasses the spirit of transformation and observation in our literal to emotional landscapes, from a walk in the woods to sober expressions of overcoming adversity, with a few detours into the unknown.

Artists include Irving Petlin, Leslie Baker, Kara Taylor, Paul Karasik, Marie-Louise Rouff, Marjorie Mason, Wendy Weldon, Bruce MacNelly, Heather Sommers, James Langlois, Carol B. Goldberg, Bettie Eubanks, Rez Williams, Mia Strömberg, Liz Taft, Billy Hoff, Whitney Cleary, Michael Johnson, Valerie Reese, Richard Lee, Jay Gardner, Nancy Shaw Cramer, Marston Clough, Marsha Winsryg and Frank Creney.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE ART OF WILLIAM BLAKESLEY: A RETROSPECTIVE EXHIBIT
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THE ART OF WILLIAM BLAKESLEY: A RETROSPECTIVE curated by Barb Blakesley | September 11 - October 2
Opening Reception: Sunday, September 11, 4-6PM

William Blakesley (1921-2012) grew up in Columbus, Ohio, the oldest of eight children and with a penchant for art. During first grade, a teacher recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue drawing. He did, and went on to draw and paint every day until his death in 2012.
After serving in World War II, William went on to teach art, including at Florida State University and Muskingum College. In 1954, William began to visit the Island. He and his wife first worked as house parents at the Youth Hostel in West Tisbury before building their home in 1958. Later, during a sabbatical from teaching, the Blakesleys taught art in the Island’s elementary schools. William opened a gallery on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs that he ran for many years, later relocating to Montgomery Square in the Campgrounds after he retired and moved to the Island full-time.
For nearly 60 years, William captured the fleeting moments of summer and the faces of both visitors and Vineyarders alike. This retrospective exhibition is presented in conjunction with a small exhibition The Art of William Blakesley at the Martha's Vineyard Museum from August 22 through November 3.

IMAGINE: CELEBRATING BLACK FEMALE CREATIVITY curated by Adrienne L. Childs, Ph.D. | August 7 - September 5
Opening Reception: Sunday, August 7, 4-6PM

Click here to visit the IMAGINE page to learn more about this 2022 exhibit.

A GALLERY POP UP curated by Tanya Augoustinos | July 2 - July 30

A Gallery, Martha’s Vineyard collaborates with Featherstone Center for the Arts for a Contemporary Art Group Exhibition in the Francine Kelly Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, mixed media, and ceramics by sixteen artists.

This eclectic exhibition includes established and emerging artists, with selected works from the estates of the late Irving Petlin (1934-2018) / pastels on handmade paper, and the late Richard Lee (1933-2012) / reverse glass paintings. Petlin, considered a master in the pastel medium, summered on the Vineyard for more than four decades while based in New York City and later in Paris, France. Lee settled on the island in the late 1970s, and collaborated with other artists to open studios and galleries. He is remembered for creating an engaging, original, and irreverent visual universe: one filled with reoccurring anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures, cherubs and rose-headed babies, magicians and mystics, winged genitalia, and androgynous teacups.

Many of the artists have been on A Gallery’s roster for the past ten years, some are recent additions, and others are guest artists for this month-long exhibition.

Photographer, Libby Ellis exhibits her sublime botanicals in larger format from her monochrome series. She is featured this year in The Royal Horticultural Society’s International second annual RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show hosted in London’s Saatchi Gallery. Having navigated a rigorous preselection process, she joins artists represented from countries including the USA, Romania, South Korea, Japan, and the UK.

Painters include: Rez Williams, with oil on canvas works exploring numerous interests, from New Bedford fishing vessels to landscapes to Irish pastoral scenes spanning several decades. Billy Hoff’s latest series of figurative paintings manifests in small black and white oils on canvas and board. He describes his decision to ignore his customary colorful palette as simply “reducing variables”. Whitney Cleary exhibits her new moody cerebral landscapes inspired by the Vineyard. Cuban-born, island-based artist Alejandro Carreño’s acrylics on canvas illustrate his graphic design training, in handmade frames from recycled wood. Two guest painters for this exhibit are island-based artist, Mikey Rottman, with brightly colored, symbolic imagery on canvas, leaning toward pop art, and Francois Venter, a South African self-taught, intuitive painter, with monochromatic surrealist scenes from his subconscious.

Mixed media artists include Ruth Kirchmeier’s iconic limited-edition woodcuts on Japanese paper, Jennifer Joanou, with new large format prints on linen, with hand embroidery, and new collage landscape paintings exploring layers and texture. Carol Brown Goldberg is included with paintings and ink on paper drawings from her popular Entanglement Series. Leslie Baker, known for her color work exhibits a new collage series in smaller format. Conceptual artist, Richard Erickson shows a medley of minimalist and abstract expressionist paintings, and sculptural objects from his Leftover Paint series, and a selection of charcoal drawings on paper.

Abbey Kuhe has produced new s’graffito ceramic whales, bears and vase pieces in high contrasts illustrating her keen eye for balancing elements of design. Lastly, we introduce Damian De Villiers, an emerging new media artist from Cape Town, South Africa with a striking portrait triptych.

EMERGE! THE DAVIN A. TACKABURY SCHOLARSHIP SHOW | June 5 - 26 (closed Monday, June 20th in observance of Juneteenth).
Opening Reception: June 5 from 4-6PM with a performance program beginning at 5PM. The performance will be attended by past and present Davin A. Tackabury scholarship recipients, as well as other talented Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School graduates who will perform. The Scholarship has been awarded since 2020 for outstanding creative work in all aspects of the arts to Martha’s Vineyard graduating seniors pursuing a college degree in the visual or performing arts. Kathleen and Wayne Tackabury established this scholarship in memory of their son Davin, whose skill and passion as a photographer and visual artist gave him a sense of purpose and community contribution. Access and immersion into the arts is essential for our young people, this scholarship will continue to support island youth in their artistic careers.

Please join us in celebrating Davin Tackabury, the many emerging artists at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School as well as the artistic expression of the Island’s more seasoned artists. All are welcome to submit one new work in any theme and medium.

The Davin A. Tackabury Memorial Scholarship fund is inspired by the life and works of Davin (October 16, 2001 – September 1. 2019). He was born in Kostanai, Kazakhstan and happily adopted into the Vineyard family of Wayne and Kathleen Tackabury. His light as a prodigious artistic talent in photography and visual arts burned brightly and wide for his fans, friends, family and colleagues across the island and beyond through his lamentably short life.
His family has established this scholarship to help inspire and cultivate the promise of emerging artists who he loved and shared with in his community. It was created for those and all of those equally talented artists to follow to discover their potential. All mediums welcome, one piece per artist. All art must be for sale - artists receive a 60% commission for all art sold. Featherstone Center for the Arts will be donating our 40% commission from all art sales during this show to the Davin A. Tackabury Scholarship Fund.

THE ART OF FLOWERS | May 8 - 30
With a Special Focus for This Year’s The Art of Flowers
Do you find yourself wandering in your yard talking to the hibernating flowers you know are there? You don't need to wait to welcome them into the world - Grab those paints or pastels, load up your camera equipment or get that pottery wheel spinning! and start creating those perfect blossoms you long for. This year the annual Art of Flowers show overlaps with the Vineyard’s first annual Climate Action Week (May 8 - 14). In support of the efforts and ideas being shared during climate week, our exhibit will have a special optional focus on native plants. The show is not limited to natives, but they will be spotlighted in the exhibit and this is offered for those curious or excited by this direction. Recognizing the beauty inherent in our native flora and turning our yards into a network of habitat connectors, is a powerful way individuals can support local biodiversity and climate resilience. What better way to recognize and celebrate the beauty of our native flora than by showcasing them in The Art of Flowers!

Quick VIRTUAL TOUR OF JOYFUL GEOMETRICS EXHIBIT:

JOYFUL GEOMETRICS | April 10 - May 1
After another winter of hibernation and mask mandates
IT’S TIME TO GET INTO SHAPE!
With Circles, squares trapezoids and triangles. It’s more fun than Zumba and no vaccination is required to participate in Joyful Geometrics. Create new art that incorporates simple geometric shapes in our every day lives to bring joy! Circular suns and moons, the triangular trees and stars, rectangular homes and barns, etc...from the representational to the abstract. All mediums welcome, maximum two pieces per artist.

2021

FROM CALDECOTT TO CORETTA SCOTT: AWARD WINNING BLACK ILLUSTRATORS curated by R. Michelson Galleries |
August 8 - September 26
Click here to visit the Black Illustrators exhibit to learn more about this 2021 exhibit.

A GALLERY POP UP curated by Tanya Augoustinos |
July 8 - August 1

A Gallery, Contemporary Art is collaborating with Featherstone Center for the Arts for a group exhibition with fourteen local artists for a Summer 2021 Pop Up in the Francine Kelly Gallery.

Oil paintings by Barbara Kassel, Billy Hoff, Chioke Morais, Rez Williams, Marie-Louise Rouff, Whitney Cleary
Reverse glass paintings by Richard Lee
Mixed media by Lucy Mitchell, Jennifer Joanou, Richard Erickson
Ceramics by Abbey Kuhe, and Jennifer Langhammer
Tapestries by Julia Mitchell
Wood cuts by Ruth Kirchmeier

VIRTUAL TOUR OF LOVE IT. PROTECT IT. MV. EXHIBIT:

LOVE IT. PROTECT IT. MV. with Vineyard Conservation Society | June 7 - 27

In response to last year’s events, Vineyard Conservation Society launched a social media based community art project titled “love it. protect it. mv.” The goal was to provide an opportunity to recognize the importance of nature, and express our feelings of gratitude for and connection to those spaces where nature takes center stage.

VCS and Featherstone Center for the Arts have now partnered to host a curated in-person show of selected works from this project. love it. protect it. mv. is an art exhibit celebrating nature, open space, and our sense of place as an island.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF STILL FRESH: THE ART OF FLOWERS EXHIBIT:

STILL FRESH - THE ART OF FLOWERS SHOW | May 9 - May 31

"Where flowers bloom so does hope.” – Lady Bird Johnson
Springtime brings anticipation, joy...and flowers! What better way to honor Holly Alaimo for bringing us The Art of Flowers many years ago, than to continue this beloved tradition. Artists may submit ONE NEW piece in any medium, not previously shown at Featherstone.

VIRTUAL TOUR OF SILVER LININGS EXHIBIT:

EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING | April 5 - May 2
The seemingly endless storm clouds hanging over us, often make it hard to find the silver lining, yet artists are resilient. Many of you discovered new themes for inspiration, found new voices and selected a different medium for creative expression. Through your work you share your unique vision for light, hope and love. We invite to share works of art that represent a silver lining as we anticipate brighter days on the horizon.

2020

THE ART OF FLOWERS: sharing virtually on May 10th as part of #ArtWeekAtHome
View the 2020 #FeatherstoneFlowers show *ONLINE HERE*
Our annual exhibit THE ART OF FLOWERS is being reimagined this year and will be presented in conjunction with #ArtWeekAtHome. Day 10 falls on Mother's Day and what better way to celebrate the day than with artful #FeatherstoneFlowers! Post your flower creation with the hashtag #FeatherstoneFlowers with us on Sunday, May 10th over social media (or email a photo of your work here) and we will share your artwork online!

Martha's Vineyard: The Way We See It with Guest Curators Vineyard Colors | April 19 – May 3
(online gallery closed)
Every day we are enthralled with the majesty of our Island thanks to the beautifully captured scenes by Vineyard Colors. The very talented couple that make up Vineyard Colors - Yann and Moira - will curate a love story of Martha's Vineyard by artists from all over the world who are moved by their photographs. We are inviting you to create an original work of art inspired by any one of their photos that are published daily on their Vineyard Colors Facebook page. We hope to showcase Martha's Vineyard from all over the world!

HERE COMES THE SUN: THE COLOR YELLOW | March 22 – April 12 *ONLINE HERE*
In March, we are all craving more warmth and sunshine, seems only fitting to bring some brightness to the Francine Kelly Gallery! Yellow will be featured as our color show this year. Yellow stands for hope, positivity, clarity, energy, optimism and enlightenment. According to numerous studies, yellow helps activate the memory, encourage communication, enhance vision, build confidence and stimulate the nervous system. So as we enter a new decade, let's turn on the lights and spread a little JOY! After all, who doesn't smile when they think of Big Bird, Marilyn Monroe, glowing sunsets and lemons?!

THE NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES | February 20 – March 15
Do you have a favorite number or set of numbers?
We have found over the years that many artists incorporate numbers into their art. With 20/20 vision and a clear path for the future, we thought it best to kick off the year with a show about numbers. We are inviting artists to submit artwork that includes at least one number in the actual composition, (not in title only). So from clocks to airplane tail numbers, scientific equations to computer code, number symbolism abounds!

2019

CELEBRATE ART! | October 20 - November 10
We are highlighting new work from the amazing artists of Martha's Vineyard! We invite every artist to submit one original work of art. The theme is your choice! Present your latest creation - something new that has not previously been exhibited at Featherstone.

INSEPARABLE: SCIENCE & ART | August 25 - September 15
with Guest Curators: Elizabeth Whelan and Stina Sayre
Island and seasonal artists and artisans works are inspired by the Periodic Table of Elements. Each participating artist/artisan has selected a single element (Carbon, Zinc, Krypton, etc.) as a jumping-off point for their own creation, which is adventurous!

CONVERSATIONS IN ART | July 28 - August 18
CONVERSATIONS IN ART presents three visual dialogs by three pairs of artists in painting, photography and mixed media installation. Featuring the artwork of Leslie Baker & Anne Besse-Shepherd, Michael Rottman & Gavin Smith and Justen Ahren & Mila Lowe.

Read more in the Vineyard Gazette article Teaming Up for Artistic Conversations

AUGMENTED REALITY ART | June 30 - July 14
Augmented Reality Art: Hollow Point by Nancy Baker Cahill and Incoming Tide: Edgartown Light by John Craig Freeman with Guest Curator George Fifield, Director of Boston Cyberarts. Also part of the exhibit, AUTHOR by a canary torsi, presented in collaboration with The Yard. Further information about the show here.

COMMUNITY YOUTH ART SHOW | June 2 - 23
Join us as we celebrate the creativity of our young people! Featuring art work from the students and alumni of Garden Gate Child Development Center, the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School and the Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School.

THE ART OF FLOWERS | May 12 - May 22
Our annual Art of Flowers Show was colorful and a welcome way to celebrate spring. Our guest curator, Holly Alaimo, always puts together a fun, delightful and very inspiring collection of artists in various media.

SILVER AND GOLD | April 7- May 5
Gold leaf, silver gelatin prints, metal art, gold pendants, silver bracelets and more - the "ores of the earth" serve as inspiration. Show us what you can do with the magical elements of Ag and Au. All media was showcased.

FEATHER AND STONE | March 10 - March 31
In honor of our great name, we sought art that included feathers and/or stones. From birds to rock walls, stone towers to feather charms, their artistic interpretation of these images in any art discipline were welcome.

MY ONE AND ONLY | FEBRUARY 11 - March 3
Original works of art, not previously exhibited at Featherstone. Artwork in all forms from paintings, drawings, mixed media, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry to fiber arts, one of a kind pieces fill the Francine Kelly Gallery. Read more: Martha's Vineyard Times and Vineyard Gazette

2018

HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW November 17 - December 16
The ever popular Holiday Gift Show returns for its 16th year in the Art Barn! An array of handmade gifts by local artists fill the gallery... ceramics, knitwear, gift cards, paintings, photography, jewelry, pillows, dog treats and more! Take care of holiday shopping while supporting local artists and Featherstone (participating artists donate 50% of sales to Featherstone!).

THE ART OF BOAT BUILDING October 14 - November 11
This unique show about the beauty and art of boat building is co-curated by Nat Benjamin co-owner of Gannon and Benjamin Marine Railway and photographer Alison Shaw and Tom Dunlop, co-creators of the book Schooner, with contributions from boat builders Phil Hale (MV Shipyard) and Rick Brown (Far Cry Boats). Visitors to the exhibit will follow the process of building a wooden boat from design to launch. In the course of their journey they will learn some of the history of boat building on Martha’s Vineyard, gain an understanding of the engineering that goes into creating these magnificent vessels, and get to know some of the unique personalities who helped make boat building the iconic Vineyard industry it has become.
Read more: Martha's Vineyard Times and Vineyard Gazette

FEATHERSTONE ARTIST TEACHERS' SHOW September 9 - October 7
View the creations of Featherstone's instructors - paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry and more highlight the work of our dedicated teachers. Read more: Martha's Vineyard Times

THE BEAUTIFUL DIFFERENCE August 12 - September 3
with Guest Curator Sandra Grymes
Guest Curator Sandra Grymes is compiling a fantastic body of work from 25 nationally recognized artists of African decent, representing a broad spectrum of artistic practice. Read more: Martha's Vineyard Times

ABBE, LOWE, PRIZER July 22 - August 8
This show will highlight artists of the Hart Haven neighborhood, featuring the artwork of William Abbe, Sanford Low and Douglas Prizer. Guest Curators, Caryl Dearing and Sam Low.

THE COLOR PURPLE June 24 - July 15
Celebrate the Pantone Color of the Year!

EXPLORING THE VINEYARD June 2* - June 17
Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation will launch the TRAILSMV App this June and will celebrate with a public photography show, entitled “Exploring the Vineyard: 22 island photographers introduce TRAILSMV.” The show will debut on Saturday, June 2nd, National Trails Day, in the new Art Barn's Francine Kelly Gallery. Guest Curator, Sheriff's Meadow Foundation.

THE ART OF FLOWERS May 13 - 28
Featherstone's annual Art of Flowers show proves to be a popular exhibit for both artists and visitors. 70 artists participated in 2017, which undoubtably will grow this year with the new Francine Kelly Gallery as the backdrop. An open community art show with novice to professional artists submitting work, it is a lovely way to ring in spring with the opening reception on Mother's Day. Guest Curator, Holly Alaimo.

RELICS AND RARITIES // POP UP SHOW // April 27 - April 29
A special weekend long pop up show featuring antiques, jewelry, furniture, art, estate finds and more!

BIRDS AND BIRDHOUSES April 8- April 25
ART IS FOR THE BIRDS! and BIRDHOUSES!
So let’s give Alfred Hitchcock a run for his money and fill the Francine Kelly Gallery with birds of all different feathers! Paintings, drawings, photographs, sculpture, collage, prints, clothing, jewelry, etc! The possibilities are as endless as the plumage... Birdhouses rustic to regal. A cottage for a Carolina wren, a McMansion for a Martin.

BACKWARDS AND IN HIGH HEELS March 11 - April 1
In celebration of all things female and women-oriented! The show will include images of the female figure, female portraits, photographs of women and a host of other images and media that celebrate woman.

DOG WILD February 11 - March 4
A fun community art show to start the year off, observing the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dog. Artwork in all mediums, including painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, ceramics and sculpture.

2017

THE BIG SHOW
With guest curators Leslie Baker, Anne Besse-Shepherd, Pam Flam and Julia Mitchell
VINEYARD GAZETTE PHOTOGRAPHY: Eyes on the Island Proposed
September 24-October 22

2018 Special Shows in the Farmhouse Gallery

ANONYMOUS ART August 25
Small Art Big Fun. A special one night fundraising event involving 6"x6" anonymous artwork.

DIALOGS: COMMUNICATION THROUGH CREATIVITY, A CONVERSATION WITH MATERIALS June 8 - 24
A collaborative art show with students from Garden Gate Child Development Center and Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School.

MVRHS PHOTOGRAPHER'S SOCIETY DEBUT May 13 - May 20
Photography show featuring the work of high school students Tyla Packish, Daniel Rivard and Davin Tackabury.

WEAVING INSPIRATIONS Aug 12-19
Shelley David Tapestry

Other Past Exhibits:

2017:
Protest
Poetic License (Art inspired by Poetry for National Poetry Month)
The 21st Annual Art of Flowers Show with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
Blue
Drawn: Black and White
Stanley Murphy Landscapes Show with Guest Curator: Nancy Kingsley
Putting It Together (Found Objects & Collage)
Ceramics
Photography: Abandoned
MVRHS Ceramics Students of Brendan Coogan Moz-ART (Art inspired by music for Classical Music Month)

2015:
I LOVE EWE – Year of the Sheep (Chinese New Year)
Take a Seat: The Chair Show
Oceans Wilderness with Guest Curator: Marianne Goldberg of Pathways Projects Institute
The 6th Annual Art of Flowers Show with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
30 Under 30: Thirty Artists Under the Age of Thirty
Gay Head Light
Bob Silberling Photography Retrospective
Martha’s Vineyard Now & Zen with Guest Curators: Alan Brigish and Susan Klein
The Art of Ceramics: Free Style
Helen Bowring Retrospective
Dreams & Nightmares
Portraits – MV Museum People’s Choice Awards

2013:
I Heart Art
For the Love of Trees: Photography Show
Lucy Vincent Beach
The Art of Flowers with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
Awe & Wonder
Collage
Tom Maley Life Drawing with Guest Curator: Anne Gallagher
Nine Artists - Thirteen Years with Guest Curator: Monina Von Opel
The Art of Ceramics with Guest Curator: Washington Ledesma
Richard Lee Retrospective with Guest Curators: Claudia Cannerdy & Hudson Lee
Artistry in Wood - Tomorrow's Collectibles with Guest Curator: Nancy Kingsley
Power with Guest Curator: Richard Limber

2011:
Featherstone’s Permanent Collection
Featherstone Teacher Show – Past & Present
The Art of Flowers with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
The Art of Jewelry with Guest Curator: Anne Besse Shepherd
The Founders & Patrons of Featherstone Show
Allen Whiting Retrospective
The Art of Photography with Guest Curator: Kathy Rose
15x15 Art Show with Guest Curator: Pam Flam
The Art of Projection: Artwork by Maya.Rouvelle
The Art of Teapots Ceramics Show with Guest Curator: Washington Ledesma The Art of Fiber Show with Guest Curator: Julia Mitchell
The Art of Personal Altars
The Art of Painting Show with Guest Curator: Meg Mercier

2009:
Red Art (in honor of Valentine’s Day)
Faces & Figures
Animals in Art Ceramics Show
Vineyard Landscapes – Featherstone & Beyond “Visual Voices” – Ann Tanksley Retrospective “Putting the Art Before the Horse” Carousel Art Max Stern RetrospectiveWood Furniture Far Out Art

2007:
Hearts and Flowers - An Artisans Valentine’s Festival Not From Memory by Valerie Sonnenthal Photography Show: Bridges & Dreams
Animals in Art
Lisa Brown – Mary’s Chair
Water: Different Perspectives
Polly Hill Collaborative – Art Created at Polly Hill Arboretum
The Art of Pastel Painting with Ellen McCluskey and Her Students
Color Line Shape & Form - Art by Anne Grandin, Peg Thayer, Sheila Fane & Dawn Greeley The Other Side of Vineyard Art: Not Beaches & Boats
Dick Sherman: Aerial Seabottoms Photography
Washington Ledesma’s Uruguayan Art: Oils & Ceramics
Thirty Dirty Sailors and the Girls Who Went a Whaling – A True Martha’s Vineyard Tale

2006:
Valentine Celebration – Kiss, Kiss, Hug, Hug – Vineyard artists present romantic art Diane Nicholls & Her Students
Fan Ogilvie – Try to Praise A Mutilated World – painting, poetry & conversations Pottery & Sculpture: The Arts of Three Dimension
Photography: Rebirth
Pastels & Prints - Different Impressions
Ellen McCluskey Pastel Show
Faces & Figures
Nefertiti Prints – Jazz Show
The Underworld of Art on Martha’s Vineyard: Video, Painting, Sculpture Patterns and Textures and Functions in Wood

2004:
Photography Show – Warm Scenes in Winter Months Threads
Featherstone Student & Teacher Show
Flowers in Collaboration with COMSOG
Water
Ann Bromberg
Cutting Edge
Oil & Acrylic
Art That Won’t Match Your Couch The Color of Autumn

2016:
#Celebrate Featherstone Show
Art & Ag
Martha’s Vineyard Visual Artists Teachers’ Show
The 20th Annual Art of Flowers Show with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
The “Barnes” Collection with Guest Curators: Caryl Dearing and John Goldthwait
The Paintings & Sketches of Stanley Murphy
SISTERS: Jenifer McCurdy Retrospective & Wendy Mulhern
Tapestry: Contemporary Takes on An Ancient Art Form 20 x 20 Show
Brazilian Art with Guest Curator: Juliana Germani
The Art of Ceramics Show: Alternative Firings

2014:
For Pet’s Sake: For the Love of Pets & Animals
18x18
Show Love Thyself: The Selfie Show
Poetry in Art & MV Poets’ Collective with Guest Curators: Debby Rosenthal and Ellie Bates
The Art of Graphic Design with Guest Curator: Karen Huff
The Art of Flowers with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
Sculpture: Inside and Out Black & White
Photography with Guest Curator: Sam Hiser
The Art of the Cartoon with Guest Curator: Paul Karasik
Featherstone Printmakers' Show
The 5th Annual Art of Ceramics Show with Guest Curator: Washington Ledesma
Pastel Show
Eat Your Art Out: Art Inspired by Food
Personal Altars II

2012:
Artists Collections – What Island Artists LOVE To Collect
The Art of Intaglio featuring Washington Ledesma, Beldan Radcliffe & Nick Thayer (Copper and Zinc Etchings)
The Art of Vineyard Architecture – Island Architects
The Art of Flowers with Guest Curator: Holly Alaimo
The Art of Costume Design Celebrating 30th Anniversary at the Vineyard Playhouse with Guest Curator: MJ Bruder Munafo
iPhone Photography
Martha’s Vineyard Artists of The Copley Society
"Metamorphoses: Change and Transformation" – featuring Nancy Blank and Roberta Gross The Art of Jazz
The Art of Flight Ceramics Show with Guest Curator: Washington Ledesma
The Art of Paper with Guest Curator: Sandy Bernat
Island Faces Portrait Contest – People’s Choice Awards
The Art of Politics with Guest Curator: Richard Limber

2010:
Kiss, Kiss, Hug, Hug RevisitedThe Art of Food – In Celebration of Edible Vineyard’s One Year Anniversary The Art of Flowers
Second Time Around – Acrylic Paintings by Patricia Carlet
New Art Now: John Robert Hill, Darcie Lee Hanaway & Chioke Morais
The Art of Black & White Photography with Guest Curator: Debra Gaines The Art of Glass with Guest Curator: Jeri Dantzig
The Art of Wampum with Guest Curator: Joan LeLacheur
The Art of Quilts with Guest Curator: Pam Flam
The Art of the Ceramic Bowl with Guest Curator: Washington Ledesma
The Art of Metal Sculpture with Guest Curator: Tony Holand
The Art Invitational with Guest Curators: Nancy Kingsley & Richard Limber The Art of Fall Colors

2008:
Triple Intersection: 3 points – Jack Greene, Dick Stroud & Caterina Verde SNAPSHOTS: Collective Memory – Valerie Sonnenthal
Featherstone Teacher, Board & Advisors Show
Photography Show: Favorite Vineyard Scenes
Nancy Noble Gardener Photography
Virginia Weston Besse Retrospective
ART in ACTION – “What It Takes” – the process of making art – Sandy Bernat, Eva Gallant, Jennifer McCurdy, Julia Mitchell, Adele Schonbrun & Heather Sussman
Pastel Show
Lois Mailou Jones Textiles
Vineyard Ceramic Artists
Betty Wolfson- Let It All Hang Out: Choices for the Future
Ann Howes Retrospective
“This I Believe”
Small Things & Tiny Teasurers

2005:
Home Is Where The Heart Is (in honor of Valentine’s Day) Print Show - monotypes, etchings & woodcut prints Featherstone Student & Teacher Show
Vineyard Landscape Show
Jeanne Campbell Photographs of Flora & Fauna
Darryl Hughto & Sarah Roth – acrylic artists with an exciting rendition of seascapes Aaron & Freida Galvin Photography
Vineyard African American Painters – Past & Present
Beaches, Boats & Picket Fences...Lighthouses & Hydrangeas
Digital Art

2003:
Pottery & Sculpture Show Landscape Show
Cartoon Show International Show
Brazil Watercolor Show
Two Harthaven Artists: Mary Stevens & William Abbe Watercolor Show