Lift Up the Gift, 2018
My Narrative,
Works by Linda F. Martin
March 19 to May 10, 2026
Virtual Artist Talk: Monday, March 23, 7–8 p.m. (recording available on current exhibition page)
In-person Artist Talk and Reception: Sunday, April 12, 1–3 p.m. (talk @ 1:30 p.m.)
Linda F. Martin is an artist that works in fiber, masterfully creating art quilts. She has been crafting her personal artistic voice for 15 years—after being inspired by the Gee’s Bend play at Hartford Stage. Her work shares memories blending her creative ingenuity and improvisation with textured fabric pieces, threads, beads and other items she believes best tell her stories.
Martin shares, “I have found my ‘voice’ in Collage Fiber Art. In the process of creating images by fusing fabric colors and designs, I engage the viewer in a conversation about my quilts. I am able to speak to the viewers by expressing who I am, where I come from, what I see and where I am going. I am grateful for the ‘conversation’ and the opportunity to ‘Lift up the Gift.’”
Visit our Current Exhibition for more information on this exhibition.
Personal Mandala Workshop with Catherine Steinberg
Saturday, April 11, 1–4 p.m., Registration required
Part of Slow Art Day!
Making one’s own mandala with symbols and inner language can lead to personal discovery. Meditating with one’s own mandala can be a way to center and ground one’s self. This workshop is the perfect activity for Slow Art Day, or to just take some time for yourself.
The workshop is limited to 8 participants. The cost is $50. Participants need only to bring color pencils and/or collage materials of their choice. Paper and other materials will be supplied.
Free parking is available at Saints Lot (across the street from the Gallery). The facility is handicapped accessible.
Publication
Watch Write Now with Gayle C. Heney: November 2025 interview featuring the author Nancy Wynn. Write Now, HC Media’s television program, explores the act of writing and celebrates authors who have published works. Heney has been producing Write Now since 1999.
Clare Gallery’s completed its 20th Anniversary at the end of 2024. We are celebrating this major accomplishment with the publication of Graceful Partners by Nancy E. Wynn.
This book documents the twenty-year history of the Clare Gallery at the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry by sharing essays, exhibition content, and community impact statements. Wynn has managed and been Chair of the Clare Gallery since its inception in 2003. She wrote, edited, designed, and self-published the book. The book is currently available on Amazon. In the fall, there will be a few events at the Gallery. More to come…
Call to Artists
This year, our 22nd season, the Gallery is focused on artists’ work that has environmental and sustainable connections. We are also planning for 2026 and beyond! Artists interested in exhibiting at the Clare Gallery should download the Call to Artists Application, which are reviewed in a timely manner.
Visiting
The public is welcome to visit the Gallery to view the artwork. Parking is free across the street at the Saints lot. Take a ticket for validation (no need to use your credit card). The Gallery is accessible for all. Masks are optional.
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