Art sale to support Monroeville library

Friends of the Monroeville Public Library are inviting patrons to own a piece of library history during this month’s art exhibit, which includes a showing and sale of artwork that was donated and previously displayed at the library.

The sale will run from through July 29 at the Elaine Biondi Gallery Space, located inside the library at 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd.

“In the past, when an artist had an exhibit, he or she would donate a work of art back to the library,” stated publicity chairperson Tara Rotuna.

A wide variety of artwork will be available to purchase, including oil paintings, watercolors, acrylics and pastels, as well as photographs and sculptures.

The Friends group has been supporting the library for more than 60 years and recently made donations towards new shelving in the children’s room and for summer reading programs.

In order to continue fundraising, the nonprofit plans to sell the mixed media pieces for a nominal price.

“Patrons will be able to purchase incredible art at wonderful prices with all sales supporting the Friends of MPL fundraising efforts,” said group President Diane Lindsey. “I think that patrons will be pleased with the variety of work that will be available to purchase.”

Monroeville resident Bonnie Fogle has been a volunteer for more than 25 years, and has volunteered in the Gallery Space for the past 15 years.

One previous summer, Fogle and a fellow volunteer catalogued all of the artwork, which was hung on an aluminum track around the library at the time. When the library was renovated, those paintings were taken down and placed into storage.

“The nice thing is we get paintings from all over,” Fogle said. “We get professionals who sell their art for thousands of dollars, as well as artists who are just starting out.”

Fogle has held two of her own exhibits at the Gallery Space. Both featured watercolor paintings and photography.

The first, titled “A Family Affair,” included biographies of her very talented family. Fogle’s grandmother wrote poetry; her nephew does hand lettering and her granddaughter draws. Fogle’s father wrote and composed music, and played the trumpet, trombone, organ, piano and saxophone. Bonnie’s brother, a drummer, started playing with their dad at age 13.

Fogle’s second showing included pictures and watercolor paintings from her travels to Peru and Ireland.

“People are so fascinating. I’ve met so many great people,” Fogle said of volunteering and the fellow artists she’s met. “It really is a unique and rewarding experience.”

To purchase a piece of art, patrons can go to the front desk, where a staff member will assist them. Cash, check or credit cards will be accepted. Unlike traditional shows, patrons will be able to take home their purchased artwork immediately.