Set apart from Concord's bustling streets lies a place where art and nature mix beautifully: the Mill Brook Gallery.
Pam Tarbell, owner and director, has been running the gallery for 13 years. Her collection includes abstract and contemporary works by regional and national artists. An artist herself, Tarbell's own painting is bright and vivid, grabbing attention through her use of color. Bright blues and subtle greens drew me and other gallery visitors closer to her work.
The spacious second floor is home to the works of New Hampshire's best artists. Megan Bogonovic's ceramic seashell creation sparked particular interest – it's shaped like a beehive. I walked around the table to make sure I saw the whole view of this lively piece and noticed the wonderfully crafted women peering inside the seashell structure. Being able to remove her from the piece added a whole new level of creativity.
There's even art on the front lawn, where a well-researched replica of a woolly mammoth stands guard. Its body is crafted with wild cranberry brush, while its 4-foot-long tusks are fashioned with raspberry stocks.
Although some gallery creations are pricey, many photographs and ceramic bowls are affordable, and I was impressed with the presentation of all the artwork on display.
The Mill Brook Gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located at 236 Hopkinton Road, it is the perfect place to soak up the springtime sun and absorb some of the best art New Hampshire has to offer.
Cameron Buker
Cameron is a student at NHTI looking to expand his writing portfolio. Be sure to say hello if you see him on campus.
