Greetings from the Eisemann Center!

Thank you for subscribing to our monthly Art Newsletter, Brushstrokes. We hope you find it informative and inviting. The Forrest and Virginia Green Mezzanine Gallery is free to view, and open daily to the public. Located in the heart of Galatyn Parkway, and steps from the DART rail, our monthly art installation is not something you want to miss.

March - May 2021

"A Celebration of Friendship"

by Melanie Brannan

"You bring out the Monet in me"

How do we honor the meaning of friendship and the potential loss of that relationship? Dallas artist, Melanie M. Brannan struggles with this question, while presenting a vulnerable yet joyful series of paintings now on display, through May 2021.

In late 2019, Brannan's friend, and Eisemann Center's Senior House Manager, Maryann Wegloski, was diagnosed with Nodular Melanoma.

"A Celebration of Friendship" includes 24 paintings that Melanie painted January and February 2021, that chronicles Maryann and Melanie's friendship. From whimsical to emotionally raw, each painting details cherished moments in their relationship.

“You are the fish in my Filet-O-Fish®”

"One day, after taking Maryann to a doctor’s appointment, she asked if we could make one more stop. She timidly asked if we could stop by McDonalds for a Filet-O-Fish. I laughed so hard because I thought I was the only one who liked those!

It became a tradition that I would bring Filet-O-Fish sandwiches when I visited her."

"Piggie and the pinwheels" was painted from the time Melanie took Maryann to a doctors appointment and surprised her with pinwheels in the car. Maryann hung her head out the window with delight and yelled, "weeeeeeee."

"Piggie and the pinwheels"

From the Artist

“I hope you will feel my gratitude in these paintings reflecting things Maryann loves, things we laugh about together,and our shared experiences,” said Brannan. According to Brannan, her friendship with Maryann has made her a better person, a better artist, and a better friend.

Brannan is donating 100% of the proceeds from the show after expenses to AIM at Melanoma Foundation. The Eisemann Center is donating back their usual commission on works sold to maximize the donation in Maryann’s honor. The AIM at Melanoma Foundation (AIM) is the largest non-profit international organization focused on increasing support for melanoma research; promoting prevention and education among the general public and medical professionals; and providing comprehensive and easily accessible melanoma resources for patients, survivors, and caregivers.

About the Artist

Melanie M. Brannan is an accomplished painter and educator. She holds classes for several private groups and various institutions, including the Pacific Art League of Palo Alto, Parish Episcopal School, the Episcopal School of Dallas, and Creative Art Center of Dallas. She also serves as a certified educator for Golden Artist Colors.For more information, details, and additional photos, contact Melanie Brannan at 214.793.4334 or melbrannan1@gmail.com.

To see the complete exhibit virtually, and to read the story behind each piece, you can click this link.

"She Loves Orange Roses"

"Cherry blossoms"

"Dogwood blossoms"

Schedule of Exhibits 2021

Due to the ever changing response to COVID19, we ask that you check our website, and follow us on social media for the most current announcements, cancellations, or closings. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility, and remain dedicated to keeping all visitors, staff, patrons, and artists safe and healthy.

Plano Art Association
June 3 - June 27

UT Dallas Teresa Mayo
Student Artwork
August 31 - September 26

North Texas Asian Photographer's Association
September 28 - October 24

Please forward and share this newsletter to anyone interested in the arts.

For questions or subscription requests, email roni.carrasco@cor.gov

Artists wanting to be considered for exhibit can find details at the Eisemann Center website www.eisemanncenter.com

Hours: 12 pm - 5 pm Monday - Friday and during all public events