Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/205938
"The conscious use of skill and creative imagination especially in the production of aesthetic objects." This is how Merriam Webster defines art and Reneé MacMurray has captured this definition for over two decades. Looking to now elevate the craft of both aspiring and accomplished artists with MacMurray Designs, Fine Art Gallery and Art Studios, an avante-garde concept evolves on the South Shore specifically in Hanover, Massachusetts. Eschewing everything within the box, MacMurray goes off the canvas and aims to provide a retreat of sorts, a break from the norm, and introduces an all-inclusive resort for every artist on the spectrum. Beyond ROYGBIV, MacMurray seeks to fill the needs of the right side of the brain, diving deep into the concept that in order to create a place must exist, not a place where everyone knows your name, but a place to "get away from it all." Whether that "all" is the office, the kitchen, the playground, the courtroom, the operating room, the waiting room—wherever it is that the daily grind happens. MacMurray aims to provide an escape from it all where the creative juices will flow without interruption as well as without incurring the heaping costs of a private studio. Reneé MacMurray has shared her love of the arts with countless individuals on the South Shore and beyond. Starting with a small shop after graduation from the Art Institute of Boston, the journey to present day was a palette of custom furniture painting and mural design and execution complemented by innumerable original works. Those original works can be seen up and down the Eastern Seaboard from New England to Florida, printed and distributed by East Coast Print Images®. Since discovering her love of art (even before graduating high school she was enrolled in art classes at Massachusetts College of Art) she strives to continually sharpen her skill, redefine how people bring art into their lives and what she has created promises to bring a whole new level of art and appreciation to many. Located at 648 Washington Street in Hanover, the MacMurray Designs Fine Art Gallery and Art Studios is a beautifully breezy welcoming respite to the psyche. Indeed, art bedecks the walls but without suffocating the browser. Wander through the sparsely adorned space and it becomes clear there is room for the budding artists, the weekend warriors even the wanna-be Botticellis. After twenty years of shop ownership and reaching great heights with her mural work, MacMurray has returned with a renewed vigor to the Gallery. Beyond the typical art gallery, MacMurray has developed her business to incorporate a working studio alongside an artist's supply one-stop-shop topped with custom art for sale—and more. Seeking to entice artists of all levels and in some cases, ages, MacMurray offers private studios with storage for supplies in order to simplify for both the individual trying it on for the first time and the seasoned veteran continuing the honing of their skill. With MacMurray's gentle demeanor and encouraging nature, regardless of level, every person is made to feel successful in their endeavors. If art is something you've always wanted to have a go at, there are classes available. Whether Basic Drawing, Watercolor Painting, Acrylic Painting, Mural Workshops or even one of her Art Challenges, there is something for everyone, with no experience necessary. The Art Challenge is open to all from beginners to old hats. A five-hour event, each artist is given a trio of primary colors, a smattering of brushes, a canvas and three hours to create. With voting by secret ballot for 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize, the winning artist has the opportunity to embrace the pay it forward concept by donating any portion of their winnings to charity. MacMurray leads by example by donating 50% of the proceeds of their artwork sold through a silent auction at the Challenge's conclusion. This experience lends itself to an emotional involvement, bringing attention to the world around us through art, a trifecta, where the buyers, sellers and beneficiaries win. A life affirming challenge on a multitude of levels, MacMurray hopes to draw in participants and an audience with a desire to stray from the norm. At MacMurray Designs Fine Art Gallery and Art Studio there is a chance to redefine Girls Night Out, foster an appreciation for unique artistic interpretation or simply try something new. MacMurray welcomes children into her Gallery, offering classes for kids ages 9-17, complete with a random display of their work on the wall. Two-hour courses provide the basics, with step-by-step instruction by MacMurray. Children will work on a new project, a "work of art", weekly that they will be able to add to their art portfolio, which will be provided by MacMurray Designs. The class includes the required art supplies, the child need only provide the love of artistic expression. Knowing that art will vary with each participant, MacMurray provides a selection of instruments with which artists can fully express themselves; Windsor Newton and Grumbacher are just a couple of names that MacMurray keeps well stocked. There are endless options for the buyer and the creator at MacMurray Designs. Personalized portraits for wedding gifts, anniversary, birthday, housewarming or a new homeowner, all original artwork by MacMurray is presented matted with a white on white double mat. For those artists looking for more of a solitary journey with their art, the Art Studios are available with a membership. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum are options depending on your dedication to the craft. With a monthly fee, an artist can receive access along with discounts, storage space for supplies, early access to classes and showcase availability. "Everything you can imagine is real," explained Pablo Picasso. Reneé MacMurray presents an opportunity for you to embrace your imagination and channel it onto the canvas. MacMurray Designs Fine Art Gallery and Art Studio is the best place to start your journey. Find them at 648 Washington Street Hanover, online at www.macmurraydesigns.com or by telephone at 781-740-0500. MacMurray Designs Fine Art Gallery and Art Studio 648 Washington Street Hanover www.macmurraydesigns.com 781-740-0500 indian summer ~2013 13