For years, Wilton Library visitors have been greeted by the colorful and whimsical murals of flowers, animals, and woodland scenes that brighten the library’s walls. This September, patrons will have the chance to meet the remarkable family behind these beloved works in the library’s art exhibition, “Generations,” opening on Friday, Sept. 5, with a reception from 6-7:30 p.m.
The “Generations” exhibition brings together more than 70 pieces of artwork by former Wilton resident and longtime Wilton Library Art Chairman Ed MacEwen, his daughter Bonnie MacEwen Sailer of Newtown, and granddaughters Jesse Sailer and Katie Sailer. Spanning watercolor paintings, cardboard sculpture, photography, paper art, and drawings, the show is a true celebration of family creativity and shared passion for art. Many of the works exhibited are inspired by the places they have visited and captured moments they have seen.
MacEwen, who retired from GTE Corporation in 1996, devoted nearly 30 years to leading Wilton Library’s art exhibitions, installing more than 150 shows and showcasing over 6,000 works from Fairfield County artists. This marks his fourth time exhibiting at the library — and his second time sharing the spotlight with his granddaughters. Many will recognize his and Bonnie Sailer’s collaborative murals in the Children’s Library, from a globe-spanning menagerie of animals to a welcoming blue tiger and towering blooms that fill an entire alcove. Patrons may also recognize the 128 foot mural visible in the library’s basement book cellar during the Spring and Autumn Book Sales, which was also designed by MacEwen.
Bonnie Sailer, a Wilton High School graduate, earned her degrees in studio art and art education before teaching in the New Canaan public schools. She played an important role in five of the library’s murals and has passed her love of art to her daughters.
Jesse Sailer, now living in Brooklyn, began her creative journey in photography during middle school and holds a BFA from Ohio Wesleyan University. Katie Sailer, currently pursuing her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Ohio State University, enjoys drawing in pencil and pastel.
The “Generations” opening reception on Friday, Sept. 5 is free and open to the public. The exhibition runs through Sunday, Sept. 28. A majority of the works will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the library. Wilton Library hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library will be closed on Sundays through Aug. 31; Sunday hours are 1-5 p.m. starting on Sept. 7. The library will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1 in observance of Labor Day.