Oil paintings and watercolors by local painter Emily Burkholder are on display through November 6^th in the Gallery at Morgan Orchards’ Strode Independent Living.

“I find inspiration in photographs I’ve taken or by venturing out in the countryside. I try to capture the beauty that nature surrounds me with each day,” Burkholder shares. “Working seasonally, I can capture the beautiful hills and colors of the Vermont landscape.”

In her work, Burkholder focuses on exploring and refining her love for watercolor and oil painting. With subject matter varying from landscapes, to animals, barns, and the natural world, she strives to give life and personality to every expression of light, shadow, structure, and animal.

Growing up, Burkholder felt a strong connection with the arts, a connection she fostered watching PBS programs featuring artists as they worked and studying through the popular “How to Draw” book series in hopes of one day becoming an artist.

Burkholder studied at Castleton University, where she earned a degree in art with a minor in music. When not working in her studio, she teaches art and music at the Artistree Community Arts Center in Pomfret, Vt in addition to private lessons. She’s a member of the Daily Artists, Vt. Watercolor Society, and has participated in art shows in Vermont and New Hampshire. She lives in Barnard with her husband and three children.

The Gallery at Morgan Orchards is open to the public and is located in the main lobby of Strode Independent Living. Artwork may be purchased by contacting the Strode Independent Living main office at 728-7888 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.