Petit Branch Library celebrates local female artists in Women’s History Month Exhibit

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Books come in and out of the Petit Branch Library every single day. But this month, they brought in more than just books. Each March for Women’s History Month, the Petit Branch Library hosts a special exhibition of art and writing by women in the community. This year’s exhibit was called “Focus on the Feminine” and featured a variety of art, such as drawings, paintings, sculptures and more. 

This exhibit was originally created in 2015. When Simcha Glassman, the adult services librarian, started working at the library in 2022 and found out that there hadn’t been an exhibit one year, she knew she would do whatever she could to bring it back. 

“I wanted to be able to kind of restart it, which was a challenge for me since I’m not an artist and I’m not from this area or this community. So I didn’t have the same connections as the lady before. But I was able to start from the other people who have shown here before, and they helped me spread the word. It was such a community effort, and it was really nice to be able to work with people in that sense,” Glassman said.

She also discussed how this month’s exhibit is the most unique of the year. While the library features local artists all year round, it usually only features one artist’s collection at a time.

“This exhibit is the only collaborative exhibit we do. All the other exhibits we do are usually solo exhibits,” she said.

With this exhibit taking place during Women’s History Month, some of the art contained themes of female strength and perseverance. Having multiple artists with talents in different areas of art showcases the different gifts women have beyond traditional gender stereotypes as well as their multifaceted nature.

“There’s such a mix of different art. There’s sculptures, there’s mixed media, there’s quilts. And I think that kind of showcases really well the different things that women can do,” Glassman said.

All of the art is displayed above the bookshelves throughout the library, which allows the community to learn more about the local art scene in Syracuse while also surrounding themselves with books.

“The community really enjoys the art. I see a lot of people just come in and talk a walk around the library to look at the art,” Glassman said.

The library doesn’t just supply books and exhibits for the community, it also gives artists an opportunity. Artist Deborah Holihan, who focuses on papier-mâché, says that she loves that libraries provide ways for local artists to showcase their work.

“Well, it’s like a step to being in a museum! I love this library for one thing. In July, I am going to have my own show in here!” Holihan said.  

While the “Focus on the Feminine” exhibit has officially come to a close, you can still stop by the Petit Branch Library to find a good book and explore more art pieces. You might even find a piece that was made by someone that you know.