Cooperstown, NY – The Cooperstown Art Association is set to unveil its latest exhibition, “Meet Me in My Flower Garden,” showcasing the vibrant works of local artist May-Britt Joyce. The exhibition, located at 22 Main Street in Cooperstown, will kick off with an opening reception on Friday, April 12, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Featuring over 40 floral paintings by Joyce, the exhibit promises a garden-like experience of color and commentary. Each painting is accompanied by notes detailing Joyce’s inspiration, creative process, and background on her chosen subjects. Her fascination with flowers dates back to the 18th century, echoing the classification of plants by Swedish botanist Carl von Linné (Linneaus). Interestingly, Joyce’s ancestral ties to Småland, Sweden, where Linneaus was born, likely contribute to her lifelong passion for botanical beauty.
Despite discovering her artistic talent later in life, Joyce has flourished under the guidance of her artist daughter and through classes with esteemed local artists Amy Cannon and Mary Nolan.
In addition to the captivating paintings, the exhibition will feature two noteworthy books. “Herbarium Amoris Floral Romance,” described by Joyce as a beautifully-illustrated ode to flowers as classified by Linneaus, will be on display. Also showcased is “En Annan Slags Trädgård” (A Different Type of Garden), penned by a cousin in Sweden. This book celebrates the flora of each month and offers insights into arranging “slow” flowers to capture nature’s palette and beauty year-round. Complementing the exhibition, an arrangement interpretation of April, crafted by Deborah Miller of Fly Creek Flowers, will be prominently featured.
“Meet Me in My Flower Garden” will run until Wednesday, May 8, open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For those unable to attend in person, additional works by Joyce can be explored online at maybrittsart.com.