Myla J. Blum will exhibit her paintings in a show titled “Feeling Free” at the Pleasant and Main Café and General Store, 1063 Main Street in Housatonic starting Sunday, August 1, with an opening day reception in the garden from 3 to 6 p.m. [Click on the image for a larger version of the painting.] Myla, tell us something about yourself: 

Great!!!!!

I’m a native Pittsfielder.

Born and raised here.

My father was a native.

I LOVE the BERKSHIRES!!!!

I’m a snowbird now and live in Florida part time BUT my heart is ALWAYS in the Berkshires.

I’m a pretty creative person.  Whether it be painting, decorating or interacting with my coaching clients.

A year ago November I had a hip replacement and when I finally got my mojo back, I started painting.  And I was surprised at what was happening!

I had thrown traditional out and began “painting outside the lines.”

The more  I pushed the boundaries the more I pushed the boundaries!!!

The colors just got brighter and shapes got freer!!!

I used to panic at a blank canvas and now I can’t wait to see what happens.  MAGIC!

The response to my work has left me in disbelief.

When I look at some of my work I wonder “who did that?”

My husband is my biggest supporter.

My friends are a close second in their support.

I truly love them all for always encouraging me .

And Harryet [Puritzman Candee of The Artful Mind magazine and gallery in Lenox] has pushed me in the best way possible.

I’m beginning to think I actually am an artist!!!!!

Myla Jill Blum

Myla also volunteers for the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. Thanks, Myla!