Opening: Lasting Impressions An exhibition from International Encaustic Art and The Cooperstown Art

More than a theme for an exhibition, Lasting Impressions are a testament to our lives, memories and extraordinary moments. They are impactful changes that our words and actions have on others, our communities and environments. This show is also a tribute to Melissa M. Lackman, who served in multiple roles as an IEA Board Member for more than a decade and gave her heart and soul to the encaustic community. Her kindness, humility, intelligence and wit built friendships and created long-term contributions that have touched hundreds of artists.

The IEA encourages artists to reflect on the many ways in which they experience lasting impressions—physical, emotional, spiritual, literal or metaphorical. Lasting impressions are visceral, they linger over time even while other memories may fade. Those impressions, whether joyous or traumatic, may originate through human interactions, solitary experiences in nature, thoughts, imaginings, or dreams. In an attempt to make sense of her environment, Melissa described her impression of universal inspiration as "... a desire to explore, conquer chaos and beautify our surroundings."