Vernon bank kicks off “Banking on Art”

VERNON — Highlands State Bank, a new local community bank located at 310 Route 94, in Vernon’s town center, kicks off their “Banking on Art” Series, a rotating display of works by regional artists, this month. The Series will begin with a joint show featuring the paintings of Orange County, N.Y., artists, Linda Barboni and Marie Liu. Many of the pieces on display are available for purchase. Barboni’s free-flowing wet-in-wet watercolors express a love of nature and her pastel works combine a traditional approach with an impressionistic style. Liu’s oil paintings include her large, humorous “Traveling with Cows” collection, depicting stylishly dressed heifers visiting the world’s hot spots. Her other works include local landscapes and florals, which feature her signature technique and bold use of color and composition. Barboni, who also organized the event, said, “I am thrilled that George Irwin, Highlands State Bank President, is so receptive to supporting the arts. He should be commended for providing a venue for local artists to display their work, where everyone can enjoy it.” The exhibits, which will change quarterly, will include oil and watercolor paintings, sculpture, mixed media compositions, pastels, and pen and ink drawings. “The ‘Banking on Art’ Series began as a way to recognize and support the many talented artists right here in our own community,” explained Irwin. “But we also wanted to display these beautiful works of art to give our Bank a more appealing atmosphere for our customers. “We encourage local artists to participate in the Series, and we invite our customers and everyone in the community to stop by and appreciate the talent and creativity of these wonderful artists.” The ‘Banking on Art’ Series can be viewed any time during banking hours. The lobby hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. A closing reception will be held at the Highlands State Bank on Sunday, Feb. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. During that time, the artists will be on hand to meet and greet visitors and light refreshments will be served. An independent community bank, Highlands State Bank offers a complete selection of commercial and business services, as well as standard retail financial services such as checking, savings, mortgages and consumer loans. Highlands State Bank is a member of the FDIC, and an Equal Opportunity/Equal Housing Lender. For more information about Highlands State Bank, call 973-764-3200 or visit its Web site at www.highlandsstatebank.com.