Submitted by Tammy Eustis
(November 27, 2023) — The Killingworth Library will host a final exhibit and sale of oil paintings by local artist Sandy Smith in December. This is a bittersweet event, as Sandy and her husband Charlie prepare to move from their long-time home in Killingworth.
Sandy is a prolific artist, whose works have touched and inspired community members for decades. As a child, she was so full of pent-up creative energy that “My mother didn’t know what to do with me!,” Sandy shares with a laugh. To keep out of trouble, she cultivated an incredible variety of artistic skills. While many of her works grace the town of Killingworth, Sandy is also a member of the Lyme Art Association and an elected member of both the Clinton and Madison Art Societies.
Many examples of her work are on continuous display at the Killingworth Library, including originally designed and hand-sewn quilts, and dolls depicting historical women from town. All of her in-house works can be viewed through the library’s website, in their Digital Library of Local Artisans. Sandy has contributed to various library fundraising activities as well – her quirky chicks-on-sticks and barn notecards will also be available for sale during the holiday season.
Sandy began displaying her works at the library in 2005, in partnership with local artist Jay Folger. The original exhibits highlighted the barns of Killingworth. From 2008 onward, Sandy held solo displays of her oil paintings every December, moving from barns to landscapes, and finally to the always-popular birds of Killingworth. The current exhibit – Sandy’s last at the Killingworth Library – will feature paintings on various topics, ranging through the many years of her career. Every work will be for sale, and proceeds will benefit the Killingworth Library.
The Killingworth Library Association extends many thanks to Sandy Smith, both for her years of support and for brightening our space – and the town of Killingworth – one hand-sewn, crafted, and painted piece at a time.
Photo by Benjamin Sodergren
