Like most people, as the New Year approached, I started thinking about what I wanted to accomplish in 2016. I thought about my usual resolutions of eating healthier and exercising more frequently but if you’re anything like me, you know how well that always goes. I finally resolved myself to the fact that this New Year was not going to be any different. However, as the newest art exhibit was being installed in the library’s gallery I was inspired to rethink my resolution plans. What if I tried to learn something new? The exhibit, “Midwestern Icons” by David Knowlton, features a variety of oil paintings. You can get an idea of what the pieces look at by visiting the following website: https://www.ecpubliclibrary.info/midwestern-icons-by-david-knowlton/

I’ve always been interested in drawing and painting however, I never gave much thought to the type of medium I would use to create my own pieces of artwork. Knowlton’s pieces inspired me to think about using oil paints. His paintings have a very clean and simple presentation however, if you look at them closely, you see the oil gives it texture and complexity beyond description.

As a librarian, my next step was to check the MORE catalog to find resources to help me accomplish my new goal for 2016. I found several beginning oil painting books in the 751.45 section of the non-fiction collection. Another great resource the library has to offer is lynda.com.
This database offers video courses for all levels and covers technical skills, creative techniques, business strategies, and more. You can also create and save lists of courses you want to watch. You will find videos on how to use Microsoft Office products, how to use social media for marketing your business and even videos on how to draw.