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Library hosts local artist Rothwell exhibit

COLFAX – Local painter Nancy Rothwell's "Chaos in the Ukraine," is being exhibited at The Libey Gallery M-F 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sat. 1-5 p.m.

Rothwell's acrylic collage, inspired by an interview on the news of a Ukrainian farmer in the midst of war will be on display in the Libey Gallery adjacent to the Colfax Library now through the end of the year.

Rothwell was watching the news when a journalist asked a farmer, "Why are all your cows inside the barn on such a nice day?" The farmer responded that it was too dangerous to let them out to graze. Explaining that the cows could easily break a leg in one of the many potholes caused by recent bombs. This farmer stayed behind as neighbors left, so he could continue to provide grains, produce, and meat to his community. He remained on the farm because of a deep sense of obligation to his neighbors and animals.

Rothwell has been well known for her social and political artistic statements for years. Usually, her work focuses on healthcare policy in the U.S. but lately, she has been reflecting on the impact of war on families and farms.

"Using visual symbols, I wanted to capture two things: the chaos of war yet a symbol for a home or farm prior to the war.

The production of wheat in Ukraine was a major motivation for me since I identify with wheat farmers on the Palouse."

 

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