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Friday Painters exhibit at tour and tea event

By Toni Milbourne - For the Chronicle | May 27, 2022

Monica Wilkins stands beside one of her paintings on display in the Friday Painter’s Exhibit over the weekend. Toni Milbourne

SHEPHERDSTOWN — As visitors entered the War Memorial Building over the weekend to obtain their tickets for the annual Back Alley Tour & Tea, they were greeted by members of the Friday Morning Painters, many of whom had their work on display as part of the weekend festivities.

The Friday Painters group is made up of a collection of artists who gather to share their work, techniques and companionship with one another.

The number of artists actively participating tends to vary, but the members bring a varying level of experience. The group includes award-winning artists, signature members of art associations, art jurors and a number of art teachers.

The Friday Painters grew out of a watercolor class held nearly 30 years ago by the late artist and teacher, Joe Mayer. A close bond of friendship, mutual respect, love of art and creativity developed, which continues to hold the group together today.

“I come for the lunches,” joked David Hutchins, a group member for the last 15 years.

In all seriousness, Hutchins said the painter’s group has been beneficial in teaching himself and many others various artistic techniques.

“The group shares knowledge and shows how to do things,” Hutchins said, sharing an example of squirting India ink on paper, adding water and then color to see what it creates. “I would have never tried that on my own.”

Group member Monica Wilkins agreed with Hutchins about the value of the collaboration between the Friday Painters’ different artists.

“It’s letting painting speak to you,” Wilkins said, mentioning that she had initially preferred working with watercolors, but has recently changed to acrylics for something different.

Wilkins said she has been creating art since she was 12 years old.

“I don’t make a living at it,” she said. “It’s more of a hobby.”

As members of the Friday Painters, both Hutchins and Wilkins had artwork on display at the exhibit over the weekend. A number of additional artists shared their work, as well.

Mike Austin, another member of the group, explained the exhibit has gone hand-in-hand with the Back Alley Tour & Tea over time. He hopes the partnership will continue, as it allows the artists to exhibit and potentially sell their work, while also supporting an annual event that is popular within the town.

The Friday Painters gather each Friday morning at the Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church. The artists work in a variety of mediums and incorporating a variety of subject matters. The members share techniques, ideas and experiences to encourage one another.