We’re excited to announce our new partnership and monthly exhibition with the art students of The Compass Atelier Master Artist Program. Our City Center branch will morph into a revolving art show, giving students a stage to display their visual artwork and get recognized in the community. A new artist will be highlighted each month with an opening celebratory reception taking place on the first Thursday of every month. Come by and enjoy wine, food, and music as we celebrate and recognize the artists of our community. Come back monthly to see which new artist we’re featuring at our City Center branch.

July’s art exhibit featuring Pat Coates

For the month of July, we’ll be showcasing the work of local artist Pat Coates. The exhibit featuring her lively oil paintings and embellished prints, will run from July 8 – July 31 at our City Center branch with a celebratory reception happening on Thursday, July 11 from 6pm – 8pm. Hope to see you there!

Meet the artist

Pat Coates is a DC area native.  She studied art at Marymount University and University of Virginia.  After several years working in watercolor and acrylic, Pat began painting in oil with Glen Kessler in Bethesda, MD. Pat’s work encompasses all genres of subject matter from landscapes to portraits.  She completed the comprehensive three-year Compass Atelier Master Artist Program in early 2017.

Artist Statement
How often do we look for all the beauty present in everyday objects; that is, do we see only what we expect to see as we are otherwise focused? Our surroundings offer us a daily parade of light and color in ordinary spaces that go unnoticed.  My paintings are not the staged still life objects of centuries past but instead are everyday items in public venues that give me joy simply by the energy and rhythm of the composition.  In capturing and exploring the texture, patterns and colors, I wish to elevate ordinary items beyond their commonplace status.