"Following Where Art Leads Me" will debut this Friday, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Octagon Art Gallery at Patterson Library. This show will be on display until Friday, November 11.

"Following Where Art Leads Me" is a collection of photo-realistic paintings from local artist Susan Forrester-Mackay. The collection focuses on Mackay's travels and the many different people and experiences she had because of art. Mackay explains the motivations behind her work in her artist statement for the show:

"I create artwork because the beauty of the process is the best mind-altering state I've ever known. The subject of human beings is an endless source of fascination for me; hence most of my work is figurative and evocative. Always focusing on the variety of every day gestures and experiences. Sometimes it's places that still hold the essence of human experience. Sometimes it's emotions that worry or things that delight the human soul and imagination. But I believe the universal themes are felt by all at one time or another.

I paint in many ways, with many emotions. There is always a thread which stitches my work together such as color and subject. My brush works ranges from detailed strokes to wide explosions. The direction depends on my mood, my subject's mood and makes for the diversity and expressive creativity that I crave. I hope you enjoy this art journey with its many twists and turns. As someone once said, 'A journey which leads in a straight line, leads no where.'

​I have been graced with many awards since the late 1960s. I had my first "One-Woman Show: A Second Look" in Buffalo, New York, in the 1970s after winning first place in sculpture. And the rest of they say is history. Twists and turns later, my work resides in many states and Mexico, in private homes and a couple museums. I am a patron member of the Portrait Society of America, Artists United, Americans for the Arts and a proud founding member of the North Shore Arts Alliance. 

Sincerely,

Susan Forrester-Mackay"

by Finley Paige Gelsimino

October has to be one of my favorite times of the year. First of all, I'm not alone in enjoying the cooler temperatures after a brutal summer of heat. But what really excites me is Halloween! Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. For the past few years, I have attended comic-cons and conventions, designing my own costumes each time I go. This tradition carries on during Halloween, for which I also make my own costume. Dressing up for the holiday is fun no matter what, but there is something rewarding about using your own creativity to make your own costume. 

Last Friday, I began teaching a Costuming and Makeup Workshop in the children's area. I brought in some old fabrics to use as well as tools such as my sewing machine. In addition, I will also be helping with Makeup tutorials. For anyone, of any age, who needs help with their costume, I'd be happy to help. Stop by the library on the Fridays leading up to Halloween, from 3 to 5 p.m. for all costume-related help. Until then, I wanted to write here and share some tips online for those who can't make it. 

Tip #1:
Even though blood, wound, and zombie makeup is a lot of fun, make sure to stay safe! A lot of that makeup isn't meant to be put near the eyes. Make sure to read the directions or buy makeup specifically for around the eyes. Sometimes face paint, fake blood, or latex may cause skin irritation, even when they are not close to your eyes. Always test out your makeup before the big day! Come on down to the library to learn more!


Tip #2:
​Trying to put your Halloween costume together but you don't know how to sew? A hot glue gun or super glue will be your best friend! You can also use Heat and Bond to put symbols or designs on your costume, no sewing required! The only thing you'll need is an iron. If you want to give sewing a try or don't have a hot glue gun, no worries! The library has both available, including a sewing machine!

I hope that this post was of use to you during preparations for your costume. Feel free to drop by anytime during either the workshop or library hours for other tips. 

Until next time!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Ingredients:
1  20-ounce can crushed pineapple
1  stick margarine
3  eggs
1/2  cup milk
1 3/4  cup sugar
4 cups  soft bread cubes

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk and sugar. Melt margarine in pan/dish. Add remaining ingredients and stir.
3. Put in oven and bake for about 1 hour. 

Enjoy!