To the Editor:

It’s been a week since Janet Willie’s Art Show and I am still thinking about this event.

For 20 years, Janet and a few dedicated volunteers have orchestrated this community event, and this year the show was a success that surpassed all others. What I have loved most about this show over the years is that no one has ever been excluded. Children have been enthusiastically encouraged to submit their work and I have seen some amazingly creative pieces done by children hanging on one of the partitions and walls of Janet’s barn and house.

A very good friend of mine who exhibited a stunning handwoven rug and attended Saturday’s event told me that his favorite piece of art was done by a 12-year-old whose artist statement read something to the effect that doing art made her happy. Well, isn’t that the point? It is for me.

Janet has dedicated herself to this undertaking with an enthusiasm that has never waned, believing and demonstrating by example that there is a creative spark in everyone that deserves attention. Most folks know that Janet has been an active participant in the community on too many levels to mention here.

I first met Janet when I lived in Andover many years ago. Our very first conversation revolved around her desire to create ‘genuine community’. She has certainly brought this dream to life through art. That the show was an astounding success is not surprising, but I think it is important to acknowledge Janet’s creativity as an artist and as a person who can organize and coordinate an astonishing show that is truly unique – every single year. I am grateful to be privy to a dream that Janet manifested as reality.

I believe I speak for so many when I say thank you for your dedication as well as your skill in putting together a show that you refuse to take credit for even though without you, this show couldn’t possibly have happened.

Sara Wright

Bryant Pond