The Howard Whittemore Memorial Library in Naugatuck, Connecticut, will host a new exhibition titled 'Mandalas and More' throughout May 2026, featuring artwork created by students of local artist and retired public school art teacher Rose-Ann Chrzanowski. The pieces were produced in Chrzanowski's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) course, which uses mandala-making and mixed-media techniques to encourage personal reflection and relaxation. The exhibit includes works using jewelry, torn handmade paper, feathers, paint, and sand, and will be displayed on the Whittemore Gallery Wall and in the library display case through June 1.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the transformative power of community-based art education, particularly for older adults who may have doubted their creative abilities. By showcasing the work of OLLI students who began the course believing they had no artistic talent, the show underscores how accessible art programs can foster personal growth, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. It also demonstrates the important role public libraries play as venues for local art and lifelong learning, making visual art more inclusive and accessible to the broader community.