Back in the days before photography, and long before cellphones made selfies possible and social media made the images ubiquitous, the way to make one's appearance permanent was to have a portrait painted. The problem was, portrait artists were expensive, beyond the reach of anyone below the upper middle class.cglaberson@fastmail.fm to reserve a time or for further information.

The answer for the rest of the world was the "shade," which later came to be called the silhouette. From the mid-18th Century to the popularization of photography, the silhouette became the most popular means of making family images permanent.

Late in the last century, a revival took place, and silhouettes again rose in popularity, particularly as gifts to keep family members in mind.

On April 1, Newtown Historical Society will host a special fundraiser event at Newtown Congregational Church. From 10 am until 4 pm, artist Deborah O'Connor be on site to create silhouette portraits for individuals, couples, and families.

Cost is $30 for a first silhouette, and $15 for any additional copies. Matting and framing will be available onsite.

Silhouettes can be done from a seated model as well as from a profile photograph. Profile photos of family pets can also be accommodated.

Ms O'Connor began cutting silhouettes more than 30 years ago. A self-taught artist in this specialty, her silhouettes are cut entirely freehand from paper using scissors as the only tool.

Ms O'Connor attended Boston Museum School, studying painting and drawing. After spending a year working at Disneyland's Silhouette Studio in Tokyo and in Maui and New York, she now resides in Rhode Island.

The last two times Newtown Historical Society sponsored a silhouette fundraiser, both were sold out, so reservations are strongly suggested. Call 203-270-1857 or send e-mail to

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