Enjoy the work of our first-ever Artist in Residence, Sandra Cashman, whose oil paintings and prints will be on display at the library from September 1 to about December 29, 2023. The exhibit can be viewed during normal library hours. As part of her residency at the Mercer Library this fall, Sandy will share her work at an Opening Reception on Tuesday, September 19 at 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Mercer Public Library. She’ll be teaching an Introduction to Landscape Oil Painting workshop on October 17 and an acrylic painting workshop for kids and their grown-ups on November 4. She’ll also hold a Closing Event on December 16.

About the Artist

Sandra Cashman is an oil painter living in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. Growing up in the Hudson River Valley in New York, Sandy began painting at age 11 with encouragement from her mother and other artistic mentors. She passionately pursued art classes and workshops throughout her formal schooling and beyond. With a bachelor’s degree in Communications and TV Production, she spent 28 years as a managing partner at a leading Wisconsin advertising agency and production company. Her career took her to top golf courses throughout the country and she was moved to photograph and paint them. She received numerous commissions to paint “Top 100” courses and soon became recognized in golf circles, where her art was featured in several golf publications. Recently retired, Sandy and her husband and their two basset hounds now live on Little Manitowish Lake where she converted a horse barn into a dedicated art studio. She contributes her business skills to the local art community as treasurer of the Manito Art League and member of the Northwoods Art Tour. An avid hiker, kayaker, gardener, chef and golfer, she feels she has finally come “home” to where she was always meant to be. Her focus today is to continue to be an “endless learner,” to grow and refine her skills as a painter, and to capture and share those magic moments that can only be found in Wisconsin’s beautiful Northwoods.

Artist’s Statement

Moving to Northern Wisconsin has put me under a spell. I see a grove of birch trees, reflections from a kayak or even a simple a puddle in the road, and I am moved to paint. Here, more than anywhere else on earth. I paint in oils with a limited color palette for harmony. I frequently let a complementary color “underpaint” of orange or red peek through in places to bring life and vibration to the colors. Ever inspired by the simple everyday beauty surrounding us, I choose subjects that touch my heart – or more accurately – they choose me! My goal is to share an appreciation for those magic moments that can easily escape us in our busy everyday lives.

About the Artist in Residence Program

The Friends of the Mercer Library are sponsoring this new Artist in Residence program at the Mercer Library. Each Artist in Residence will serve a three-month term and will share their work through exhibits at the library, receptions, classes for the community, and other events. Applications for 2024 Artists in Residence will be accepted in late 2023, and all local artists will be welcome to apply. For more information, contact the library at 715-476-2366.

The Mercer Public Library offers one-on-one technology assistance on “Tech Tuesday.” FREE 30-60 minute appointments for help with your laptop, smartphone, tablet, e-reader, or other tech device are available on most Tuesdays and on other days as necessary. This service is open to any residents, visitors, or property owners in Mercer or to library cardholders from any library in the Northern Waters Library Network area, including Iron and Vilas Counties. Call the library at 715-476-2366 for more information or to set up an appointment.