"All Creatures Great and Small" – Solo Exhibition by Lina Ferrara

I’m excited to invite you to my upcoming solo exhibition, "All Creatures Great and Small," which will run from September 4th through the 28th at Gallery 255 in Lewisburg, PA. This show features my latest collection of oil paintings, each piece inspired by the wondrous creatures—both big and small—that share our world. The gallery is located at 255 Reitz Blvd, inside the Library for Union County, and the exhibition is free to attend.

The Inspiration Behind the Exhibition

This collection is particularly close to my heart. Drawing inspiration from the classic poem "All Things Bright and Beautiful" by Cecil Frances Alexander, I’ve created a series of paintings that pay homage to the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. The paintings range from the familiar faces of cats and dogs to the majestic presence of wildlife like bison and songbirds, all captured with a deep sense of reverence and realism.

The seeds for this passion were planted long ago, during a brief visit to my grandparents' farm in Italy when I was just four years old. Those early memories, coupled with my experiences on a dairy farm here in central Pennsylvania, have deeply influenced my art. Each stroke of the brush is a tribute to the animals that have filled my life with wonder and joy.

Event Highlights: Reception with the Artist

On Saturday, September 14th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, I will be hosting an artist reception at the gallery. It’s a wonderful opportunity to view the art, ask questions, and share in the joy these creatures bring into our lives. Iced tea and cookies will be served, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual conversations and making connections. I’ll be there to talk about the stories behind the paintings, the inspiration drawn from the natural world, and my journey as an artist.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

Visitors will experience a wide array of subjects in this exhibition

:

• Farm Animals: Chickens, roosters, cows, sheep, and goats depicted in scenes that capture the essence of rural life.
• Wildlife: Majestic bison, delicate songbirds, and exotic birds, each portrayed with meticulous attention to detail.
• Domestic Pets: Endearing portraits of cats and dogs that celebrate the unique bond between people and their pets.
• Special Piece: A painting dedicated to James Herriot, featuring sheep in a picturesque English landscape, inspired by my admiration for his books.

Each painting in this exhibition is a visual ode to the natural world, reflecting the harmony and grace that can be found in all living things. Whether you have a deep love for animals or simply appreciate fine art, I hope these paintings will resonate with you.

Plan Your Visit

The exhibition is open during the library’s regular hours: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The gallery is closed on Sundays. Whether you’re local to Lewisburg or planning a special trip, I’d love for you to stop by and explore the work I’ve poured my heart into.

Gallery 255, 255 Reitz Blvd, Lewisburg, PA
Exhibition Dates: September 4-28, 2024
Reception: Saturday, September 14, 1-4 PM

About Lina Ferrara

Raised in New York City as the child of Italian immigrants, I draw from a rich cultural heritage that deeply influences my art. My love for painting animals took root during a childhood visit to my grandparents' farm on the Amalfi Coast, an experience that would eventually lead me to study dairy science at Penn State University and embrace the life of a farmer and artist. Over the years, my work has been showcased in various prestigious institutions, including the White House and the Library of Congress, and is held in private collections worldwide. I am currently represented by Smith Fine Art Gallery in New Cumberland, PA, and continue to create and exhibit my work both locally and internationally.

Artist Statement:
My art is a celebration of light and color, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Through oil painting, I capture the essence of life’s beauty, drawing inspiration from the world around me—particularly the animals and landscapes of central Pennsylvania. My work invites viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the simple, yet profound, beauty of creation.

I look forward to sharing this special collection with you!