Area Artists & Friends Featured In Library Show

SOUTHBURY — Through the end of December, Southbury Public Library is presenting an exhibit of artworks done in colored pencil by two area residents.

Martha Koons of Southbury and Newtown resident Leslie Hudson-Tolles are art educators and fine artists who met and became friends during graduate studies in printmaking at Southern CT State University in New Haven. Works by each artist are on view in the corridor gallery at the library.

Ms Koons has been teaching for 30 years in Danbury, and Ms Hudson-Tolles has been teaching for 26 years, dividing her time between Sherman and Ridgefield. Both women believe visual art is a key component in the education of every child. This idea is carried into their teaching of children and adults.

Together, Ms Koons and Ms Hudson-Tolles have presented several workshops at the state level for art teachers in colored pencil techniques and art education-related topics. Ms Koons is on the board of Connecticut Art Education Association. Both artists are mentoring with colored pencil artist Richard Kenerson.

Over the past four years, Martha Koons has amassed a body of colored pencil works. She began exhibiting her work this past summer.

Leslie Hudson-Tolles is a freelance artist who has been exhibiting her work nationally for the past five years.

Southbury Public Library is at 561 Main Street. It can be reached by calling 262-0626. The art show can be viewed during regular library hours, and there is no charge.