August Wotiz Exhibit

Saturday, August 31, 2024

TIME: LOCATION: Wotiz Gallery CONTACT: Jean Hlady, 617.698.5757

The Milton Public Library will be hosting the paintings of artist Andrise Dalmace in our Wotiz Gallery from August lst through the 30th.   This collection features very colorful floral images, which are sure to be enjoyed by all.

Ms. Dalmace was born and raised in Boston in a Haitian family, and in addition to being a painter, she has a successful career as a full-time nurse at Mass General Brigham Hospital.  This is what Andrise says about her life and work: “My parents immigrated to Boston and have embodied the American dream.  They faced many obstacles of discrimination, wealth disparity and language barriers in a city where they never were meant to thrive, but it did not stop them from putting their three kids through college.  I am a living embodiment of their dreams, and with the tools they have given me, I was able to accomplish my own dreams….Over the course of my career I’ve seen firsthand how precious life is.  I have treated patients fighting addiction, chronic disease and mental health crisis among countless other ailments.  My career has effectively deepened my personal desire to help others in any capacity I can.”

One lovely painting Andrise has created is titled: “Bel Fle,” which means “beautiful flower” in Haitian-Creole.  It represents Haiti’s national flower, the Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis, in an abstract form.  This is what she says about the painting: “This art piece was inspired by watching Haitian families sleep in Logan Airport and being housed in prisons as they immigrated to this city I call home.  Many of these families have escaped death, healthcare crisis, government corruption, economic challenges and environmental devastation.  These families risked their lives to come here. They found refuge in this country for a dream much like what my parents did for me.  They deserve to be met with open arms, not prison walls and airport runways, …we must create a space for people to feel welcomed.”  and she continues with:  “It [the painting] represents the growth and beauty of what is yet to come for these families once they settle into this city and gain access to better healthcare, education, career opportunities, resources and support.  “L’union fait la force” means “unity is strength” in French.  This is the national motto of Haiti: we bear it on our flag.  Haitians are never alone because the country was built on solidarity and perseverance.  Even in a city where we feel forgotten, we stand strong.”

There will be a free and open reception for this exhibit held from 6-8 PM on Tuesday, August 13th in the Gallery.  We hope you might come and meet the artist and view this wonderful display!

We encourage you to come visit the Wotiz Gallery this month to view this display of beautiful floral pieces created by an artist, who is so heartfelt and earnest in both her beliefs and in the creation of her artwork.  And for more information about displaying your art at the Milton Public Library, Email jhlady@milton.ocln.org or call the Reference Dept. at (617) 898-4964.  Please come visit us in August!