March 27th screening: "New England Ladies" and Ellen Day Hale

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 3:00—4:00 PM in the Community Room of the Sawyer Free Library, 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester, MA, 01930

For years Cape Ann Museum visitors have been welcomed in the first foyer by the spirited 1925 Theresa Bernstein painting, “New England Ladies,” which portrays a merry group of people - esteemed, soon to be famous, and local - from the Folly Cove neighborhood of Gloucester enjoying tea and conversation together in a neighbor’s parlor. A festive painting of a happy Cape Ann time, this work has become one of Gloucester’s iconic pieces.

The painter Ellen Day Hale sits in the lower left corner of the work. A shawl around her narrow shoulders, perhaps a cap revealing her start in the previous century, Hale is leaning into conversation with young Gertrude Stanwood, who is hosting the party.

On March 27th, Heather Atwood will present two videos from her series on local artists, “The Color of Light.” The first video will break down exactly who are the artists and creatives portrayed in “New England Ladies,” and what it says about the vibrant cultural life in Folly Cove at the early part of the 20th century. The second video will focus on the life of Ellen Day Hale, who can be credited (with her partner Gabrielle Devaux Clements) with creating and fostering this rich, cultural moment on the Northern corner of Gloucester.

Atwood will present the videos, and then discuss more about Hale and this time. Ellen Day Hale and Gabrielle Clements arrived in Folly Cove in 1893. It was Hale’s unique generosity towards rising artists - and others - that set a joyful precedent in Folly Cove culture. Atwood contests “New England Ladies” is a painting about that joy. 

Here is the link to register:

https://sawyerfreelibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/color-of-light-screening/