Local Artist Displays Paintings, Photographs at the Library

Walter Lesus has been using a paint brush to express himself since the late 1960s.

“My work is my communication,” the Sandwich resident said. “It's how I talk to the world.”

About two years ago he began dabbling in digital photography.

Some of his work, including two paintings and seven photographs, is currently on display in the . Library personnel regularly showcase artwork from area residents on the library's second floor.

One painting, Lesus calls “Dependence,” is done with acrylic paint and varnish.

“The two don't mix, so I manipulate the medium to my liking and added many layers to it,” he said. “It is a statement on how we are all dependent on at least one thing in our life.”

His other painting, called "Housewives," was inspired by a photo he took of a reflection in a window.

“I liked the form and wanted to experiment with it in paint,” he said. “It, too, is done in layers, but with acrylics and forms and patterns layered on one another.”

The photos on display are from around the area.

“Most are of the local landscape or structures, but I would shoot just about anything that catches my eye,” he said.

Lesus said he is “self taught in all areas but for some basic art courses in college.”

“I didn't start showing my work until about a year and a half ago, but (I) have been in several exhibits,” he said.

His favorite part of showing off his work is the feedback.

“I love to hear the comments people have, and hopefully have some even buy a piece,” he said. “To think of one of my pieces hanging in someone's home is very flattering.”

Library employee Sharyl Iwanski said the artist display exhibit usually rotates on a six to weight week schedule.

“The library exhibits started when the new addition opened,” she said. “The art wall was a concept of the library board and the director and they determined that we would use it to give local artists the opportunity to showcase their work.”

Lesus is glad for the opportunity.

“I love to show or be invited to show,” he said.