Works of Dr. Edith A. Tonelli (Tang Di An) featured this month at Barnstable Town Hall

Barnstable Town Visitor Center, 397 Main St, Hyannis, MA | Get Directions »
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The "Art on Loan" program which displays the work of local artists on the meeting room walls in Barnstable Town Hall, features the paintings of Dr. Edith A. Tonelli (Tang Di An) through the end of November.

In 2006,  Dr. Tonelli spent several weeks in China studying and painting traditional masterworks.  She was given the name, Tang DiAn by the craftsmen carving her signature stamp. 

She produces art works in the manner of traditional Chinese brush painting, often known by the Japanese term-“Sumi-e”.  In a manner similar to Acupuncture and the physical arts of Tai Qui and Qigong, traditional Chinese painting involves a process of capturing and expressing “qui”, what the Chinese call “energy” of life, or “the life force”. 

Of her work, Dr. Tonelli says:  “‘There are no mistakes, only happy accidents,’ is an age-old Chinese saying about the paradoxical  process of Asian brush painting.  Although patient practice and intense focus are critical elements of my traditional training and preparation, it is only with a relaxed, fluid brushstroke that allows for ‘happy accidents’ that I can achieve my goal of tranquil, yet energized images.  Every painting is a mysterious, joyful, and surprising adventure in peaceful surrender.”

Dr. Tonelli has been working in the visual arts for over 30 years.  She was trained originally for her Master’s degree at Hunter College in New York, in basic European painting techniques, ink brush drawing and in the Japanese woodblock printing process.   She finished her Ph.D. at Boston University focusing on American Art and Artisanry.

After many years of working at large educational institutions and museums she opened a private studio and gallery for painting and artist-supervised giclee prints here on Cape Cod.

The Artwork on Loan program is another venue for local artists to display their work.  Visitors who use the meeting rooms will discover an inviting and attractive environment and will have an opportunity to learn about some of the Cape’s local artists. 

For more information on the program, email melissa.hersh@town.barnstable.ma.us

Or call 508-862-4767  or visit www.hyartsdistrict.com