Fine art shared after dark

By Mary Caraballo
MILFORD — Every second Saturday of the month, Milford's shops and galleries host an evening of Art after Dark from 6 to 9 p.m. where many enjoy sipping wine, snacking and socializing while shopping and seeing all types of fine art.

Michele Fleming, owner of The Beveled Edge custom framing studio on 210 East Hartford Street hosted the presentation of local Milford artist, Jan Valentine's original paintings. Jan specializes in abstract paintings using a myriad of mediums with drips and pours of color.

"I am all about color texturing, using different materials in different ways to create different effects," Valentine said. "I am material hoggish — lots of money is used for the materials. I like to play and experiment and am thrilled with the power of paint, color, and texture. Abstract paintings inspire such conversation — people see different things, and I can't wait to hear what people see."

Valentine is inspired by Jackson Pollock, an American painter and abstract artist of the expressionist movement who is known for his unique style of drip paintings. She is a self-taught artist who has been creating since childhood.

Valentine sold six of her paintings. To view her collection of modern contemporary works visit www.jvalentinefineart.com.

— Photos by Mary Caraballo