John Bagjas is exhibiting his woodworking in the Glass Case Gallery during January and February. He was raised in the Chicago area and moved to Spring Green in 2022. John tells of his story, "I worked for 32 years in the Chicago are as a union-trained ornamental plastering restoration specialist. I worked on the restoration of many old churches and historic homes as well as, the most popular, the Lyric Opera House in downtown Chicago. Working with the plastering materials became the possible source of health issues that developed. While I was not able to work ,and was going through treatments, I decided to go back to making things with my hands. I'd always loved working with beautiful wood, So, I decided to make custom boards, boxes, and humidors as gifts. Then people started asking me what I had for sale. I like to go and choose the woods by looking for colorful hardwoods that have the most character because nature makes the most perfect imperfections in the hardwoods I use. I do not stain and do not use plywood in my work. I like to bring out the colors and imperfections in my projects. All my projects are made by hand with typical hand tools. My projects are custom one-off pieces and not mass produced, I have made similar pieces but nothing exactly the same." John's art is available for viewing through February 28th, during regular library hours. 

BillieJo Scharfenberg is the featured artist in the Community Room Gallery, showcasing her stained glass art through February 28th. She invites you to "Experience the vibrant beauty of these stained glass creations. Featuring unique, spiritually inspired pieces that blend light, color, and natural elements, each work tells a story drawn from dreams, conversations, and fleeting moments in nature. From mystical pieces to abstract landscapes, my art captures the magic hidden in everyday life. Discover how glass, light, and found objects come together to create meaningful, heartfelt works of art." Since returning to Wisconsin, BillieJo has made extraordinary efforts to make art available for all ages from homeschool classes to private lessons. In the fall of 2023, she open Angel Dreams Studios in Lone Rock, one of the many places that planted the seed to nurture her creativity. In addition to classes, BillieJo is honored to collaborate with clients on custom pieces that transform their dreams and memories into art that radiates beauty, light, and joy. BillieJo's work may be viewed during regular library hours when the community room is not in use. Please ask for the room key at the circulation desk.