“Women’s Work”– The Saul Alexander Foundation Gallery of the Charleston County Public Library in downtown Charleston will present an exhibition of works by Karyn Healey entitled, “Women’s Work” which captures the stories of some unique women and what they do. It will be the first opportunity to view most of these works that visually honor women who challenge conventional perceptions of the “fairer sex.” They include nurturers, teachers, organizers, and righters of wrongs. They are artists, scientists, risk takers and worker bees who every day get up and do the work that needs to be done. The show also includes some group participation components from women near and far, from all walks of life and with different interests. Although their paths may not cross, they are all moving forward with purpose and a strong female gaze.

For close to two and a half decades Healey has predominantly lived in the South before moving to the Charleston area from Pittsburgh in 2008, and in 2009 she began focusing her attention on plein air and studio oil painting. Karyn Healey was born in New Jersey, grew up in Minneapolis and attended Iowa State University. In 1983 she received a BA in graphic design and worked for years as a graphic designer, and adjunct faculty member teaching design and typography at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport. Later she focused on art advocacy and art appreciation by re-designing and expanding a volunteer run program, Art in Motion, for elementary schools in Sewickley, Pennsylvania which integrated art appreciation and the classroom curriculum which was an innovation at the time.

The exhibition will open May 1 and continue through May 31, 2017. Opening reception Friday, May 5, from 4- 6pm during the Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk. Free to attend. The Saul Alexander Gallery is located in the main branch of the Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Viewing times coincide with library hours: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sunday 2-5pm. (843) 805-6949, www.karynhealeyart.com