written by 2015-2016 Artist-in-Residence, Meghan Murray

Motivation comes to us in many forms. Perhaps it’s a goal that motivates us (“I’d really like to finish these five paintings for that exhibition coming up!”)

Perhaps motivation comes in a talk with a good friend, or a great presentation like the ArtTalks here at the Umbrella.

-written by 2016-2017 Artist-in-Residence, Meghan Murray

In a historical moment of American history, many of us have been rudely awakened to a tendency of hatred in our country. I suppose I have lived in a bubble that envelopes educated and liberal communities, and was blissfully ignorant to the feelings of much of the nation. I am very lucky – I was born white, into the upper middle class in New England, and was provided a fantastic education. My life will be largely unaffected over the next few years, but that is not true for many Americans.

I have now lived in Concord for three weeks, and I am still overwhelmed by many things. Firstly, the sheer beauty of this very warm and colorful October. I have made a habit of walking to the Sleepy Hollow Burial Ground, up on the hill over Monument Square, to sit and read amongst the falling yellow leaves and the weathered tombstones. I look forward to strolling onto Main Street when the snow falls, and I imagine the stillness that I have come to associate with New England winter.

By Jerry Wedge

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news on the loss of a committed advocate, trusted board member, loyal and cherished friend this week. Kathy Reticker, we have been honored to know you and work with you. Your presence here and in our community will be greatly missed. Our love goes out to your entire family during this time of sorrow. May you rest in peace.

-written by 2015-2016 Artist-in-Residence, Sarah Fagan

In less than a month, my year as The Umbrella's artist-in-residence will be over. I spend the next few weeks installing my show and wrapping up work in my studio. (I look forward to seeing everyone who can make it at the opening reception of my year-end exhibit "Accumulations," in the gallery on Thursday, September 1, from 6-8 p.m.! Plug, plug!)

We are thrilled to announce Meghan Murray has been chosen as The Umbrella's 2016-2017 Artist-in-Residence!

The Umbrella’s Artist-in-Residence program, which offers free housing and studio space to an emerging artist, started in September 2014 with Nina Earley. Nina is a conceptual artist who uses an endless range of mediums to convey her interest in mapmaking and memory. After her yearlong residency, she returned to The Umbrella as part of Mark Maker’s: Cameraless Images, a group show with resident artists Cynthia Katz and Carol Krauss.

By Rebecca Cook

We all know tiny houses are hot, but on a recent Saturday in Concord they were scorching. And yes, it was one of the dog days of summer, but this event didn’t need the sun to sizzle.

The Umbrella and Miranda’s Hearth held the 2nd Big Tiny House Festival on July 16th. The Umbrella staff estimate that three thousand people attended this swirling, multi-layered, hours-long extravaganza.