The public is invited to the Topsham Public Library (TPL) on Saturday, November 23rd, 2-4 pm for an amazing art show and English Tea style reception honoring the work of former Brunswick resident and retired artist Consuelo G. Bailey, known to many as Connie or C.G Bailey. These works will be available to purchase in an online auction which will run from November 18th through December 13th. Proceeds will benefit the arts programs at the Topsham Public Library and People Plus.
With a combined 40-year legacy as an art educator and gallery coordinator at both People Plus and the TPL, Ms. Bailey is a beloved long-time member of People Plus and a generous contributor to fundraising efforts at both non-profit organizations. Connie’s philanthropic nature continued as she retired and down-sized into a smaller home; a move which prompted her to work with son Todd Bailey on a legacy gift of her entire collection of nearly 60 original pieces of artwork including her best-of-show and prize-winning pieces, as well as her private collection of work from other artists for a total of approximately 80 pieces of art.
The online auction held from November 18th through December 13th features all of these pieces of art. The link will be posted on November 18. All proceeds will be shared equally between The Friends of the Topsham Public Library and People Plus.
Todd Bailey, Connie’s son, had this to say about his mother and her artwork, “My mother has always had a keen eye for the intricate details of nature and specialized in lovely watercolor batik paintings on rice paper and won many awards as well as entry into numerous private and corporate collections. Growing up, I watched her transform landscapes into stories – each very unique. Her art isn’t just about creating beautiful images; it’s about capturing the delicate balance of our natural world. One of her favorite themes, “Where the Road Leads,” perfectly captures her love for wooded paths and old roads; now these artworks are embarking on their journey.”
The collection will be on display at the Topsham Public Library from Monday, November 18th until Friday December 13th. Also on display will be several never-before-seen special pieces from her family’s private collection – which are not for sale. This exhibit is free and open to the public.
Believing that it didn’t seem right to store her paintings, Todd says, “They were created to bring joy and show her deep appreciation of nature to others. I’m excited and proud that she wants to share her lifetime of work and other cherished collections with the community that has inspired her for so long.” Todd goes on to say, “It’s also gratifying to see her passion for nature support the arts in the community that became family.”
Connie’s career spans over four decades and primarily focuses on nature, capturing its beauty with exquisite detail and sensitivity. Throughout her career, Connie has received over 300 awards. Her preferred mediums include paper batik, pen and ink, watercolor, scratchboard, and colored pencil, showcasing her unique talent and vision. In this collection, you’ll see some of her original award-winning pen and ink prints with a touch of color, many hand-painted by the artist.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Connie has been an inspiring teacher and community leader. For many years, she taught mixed media classes at People Plus in Brunswick, awakening countless older adults to a love for art. Her dedication to nurturing creativity in others is a testament to her generosity.
People Plus member, Beth Aldenberg remembers becoming a student of Connie’s, over 20 years ago. She recalls that Connie was very accessible, gave easy-to-understand instructions, and was open to answering all kinds of questions about art. “I like her very much,” Beth says. Always a popular teacher through the years, Connie continued to teach at People Plus during the pandemic by recording hours of art instruction videos, enabling hundreds of people, even as far away as Scotland to access her classes online. (The entire series is available on the People Plus website.)
“Connie was tickled to learn that her instructional videos had “gone viral” in other countries”, said Stacy Frizzle-Edgerton, People Plus Executive Director. “She loved teaching others and sharing her art with everyone. She was so consistently generous, that this donation hardly comes as a surprise. We are honored to continue her legacy of art work instruction at People Plus and can’t wait to see so much of her work on display at the Topsham Public Library!”
Connie’s contributions to our community extend far beyond her artwork. In 2015, she was the inaugural recipient of the Sarah Whitten Community Award from the Topsham Public Library, recognizing her outstanding service as the volunteer gallery coordinator. Her efforts established the Crooker Gallery as a showcase for local artists, including the popular Joy of Art and Joy of the Lens juried art competitions. Although Connie retired from teaching and the show circuit in 2021, her impact continues to resonate.
The English High Tea reception on November 23rd from 2-4 pm at the TPL will feature a treasure trove of delicious treats baked by caterer Amanda Palma, daughter of People Plus board member Joe Palma. The offerings will include almond biscotti, cranberry orange scones, mini chocolate chip muffins, lemon pound cake and mini chocolate chip cookies and will be served with fresh brewed coffee and tea.
All proceeds from the auction will go directly to supporting ongoing arts programs in our communities through The Friends of the Topsham Public Library and People Plus. Your participation allows you to own a piece of Connie Bailey’s remarkable art or that from her amazing collection and contribute to continuing arts education and programs in the area. This gesture ensures that Connie’s legacy will continue to inspire and educate future artists and art lovers.
