http://www.saratogian.com/articles/2009/07/19/wglife/doc4a5f5ba090db8428679446.txtBy

The Saratogian

 BEVERLY McKIM
WG Life

I am penciling in a visit to the Hyde Collection sometime this summer to check out the Degas exhibit that opened last week and continues until Oct. 18.

The collection of nearly 35 pieces of paintings, sculptures and prints from the artist’s portfolio are on display at the museum located on Warren Street in Glens Falls is centered on The Hyde Collection’s holdings, along with loans of major works from national and European institutions and private collectors. Curators of this exhibit say “it will appeal to visitors of all kinds: artists and art enthusiasts, music-makers and music-lovers, professional dancers and their counterparts, and those with an interest in history and culture.” Whether or not I fall into any of those categories, I appreciate the genius needed to create a work of art.

Wilton resident miChelle Vara has been a sculptor for 30 years. She was commissioned to create a piece in honor of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s discovery of the river that bears his name. The 10-foot-high combination of iron pieces depicts one of Hudson’s early voyages. It can be seen at her Ballard Road gallery until July 26 then it moves to Kingston.

Vara says she finds inspiration everywhere. I admit that occasionally it hits me at unlikely times and places but I am not inspired by everything. If I were that capable, coming up with something for dinner daily would not be such a challenge. But perhaps I lack inspiration in that category because I am saving my creativity for a loftier purpose. I’ll get back to you when I figure out exactly what that might be.