The Two Villages Art Society (TVAS) will open a unique exhibit titled “My Artistic Legacy” on Oct. 19 at its gallery in Contoocook. The exhibit explores the concept of artistic legacy, showcasing works by 19 artists who were asked to select two pieces that represent how they would like to be remembered.
Participating artists include Rick Amon, Tracy Brunner, Colin Callahan, David M. Carroll, Laurette Carroll, Ruth Chevion, Marilyn Dunn, Kathleen Dustin, Dan Dustin, Lisa Eberhart, Linda Graham, Martha Johnson, Sher Kamman, Liz MacBride, Larry Morgan, Susan Rock, Ann Saunderson, Gail Smuda, and Pam Tarbell. Each artist approached the idea of legacy differently—some chose to exhibit existing works, while others created new pieces specifically for the exhibit.
“For some artists, selecting two legacy pieces was an easy decision. For others, the process took months,” said Parker Potter, who conceived the exhibit. “Why did they select a particular piece? Was it the subject matter, the technique, or a pivotal artistic moment?” Each artwork is accompanied by a statement from the artist, explaining the personal significance of their chosen pieces.
Kathleen Dustin, a renowned polymer clay artist, contributed a large necklace with over a dozen charms, each representing a significant moment in her artistic career. David M. Carroll, a naturalist and artist, selected a painting of a spotted turtle, symbolizing his journey “following the water” as an artist, writer, and teacher.
“My Artistic Legacy” runs from Oct. 19 to Nov. 16 at the TVAS gallery, located at 846 Main Street in Contoocook. The opening reception, held on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 12-2 p.m., is free and open to the public. The event will include refreshments, live music, and a celebration of TVAS’ fifth anniversary as a gallery.
Marking its fifth anniversary, the nonprofit, volunteer-led organization has increased its membership roster and developed a loyal following. The TVAS board of directors is currently planning exhibits well into 2026.
“We have a high caliber of artists proposing shows of their work,” says Larry Morgan, TVAS board president. “We offer as much variety as possible in our calendar, and continue to present two member shows each year. These shows support local artists and they help us meet expenses to run our nonprofit gallery.”
Ruth Chevion credits many friends and supporters of the arts for the project’s success, including Hopkinton resident Carol Hooper and Hopkinton town administrator Neal Cass. “Carol and I met with local artists in the gazebo and formed an artist’s association,” she says. “To our great amazement and good fortune, Alyssa McKeon came forward to run it. TVAS would not exist today, had she not made it into something professional and vibrant.”
The fifth birthday celebration and exhibit opening reception are free and open to the public on October 19 from 12-3 p.m. The event features live music, light refreshments, and a raffle.
Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, from 12-4 p.m. The current exhibit featuring the work of Bedford artist Marcie Roberts will close on Oct. 12, and the gallery will be closed from Oct. 12-18 to prepare for the new show.
For more information, visit www.twovillagesart.org.
Two Villages Art Society is a non-profit, member-driven association in Contoocook Village, open to all with free admission to exhibits.