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Arts & Entertainment

NSYMCA April Community Gallery Features Artist Karen Bonner

Using her life experiences as references for art, Bonner's paintings tell a personal story.

The North Suburban YMCA’s Community Gallery is showcasing the artwork by Karen Bonner during the month of April.
The North Suburban YMCA’s Community Gallery is showcasing the artwork by Karen Bonner during the month of April.

The North Suburban YMCA Community Gallery is showcasing the artwork of local artist Karen Bonner during the month of April. The artwork is for sale with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Y’s Visual Arts Program.

Using her experiences as references for her art, each of Bonner’s paintings tells a personal story. She feels that it’s important to challenge herself to try new things with the hope that her stories and art “provide some entertainment as one walks through the halls.” Bonner’s work features a variety of mediums including watercolors, colored pencils, liquid charcoal, acrylics, and acrylic mediums.

“Spring is always the most inspirational time of the year for me, as all nature awakes to bloom and reproduce. Inspiration can come from anywhere, like the chicken at the State Fair, animals at Wagner Farm, or ducks on a pond in The Grove,” said Bonner.

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Bonner moved to Northbrook in 2013 and is thankful to have made new friends through her art classes at the YMCA, stating that “I am forever grateful for the experience gained in watercolor classes with Fran Vail at the Y."

The NSYMCA’s Community Gallery located at 2705 Techny Road in Northbrook celebrates the diversely talented artists living and working in Chicago’s northern suburbs with free monthly exhibits open to the public. For more information about art at the North Suburban YMCA, contact Cathie Winnie at [email protected] or 847-272-7250.

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About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.

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