This program is supported in part by a grant from the Haverhill Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
A book illustrated by a local artist comes to life on the walls of Creative Haverhill’s downtown gallery beginning next week.
“What’s in the Closet?” a book written and illustrated by local artist and retired clinical social worker Catherine Mannheimer, is on display from Wednesday, Feb. 25 through Saturday, March 21, at 43 Washington St., Haverhill.
Instead of a traditional art show, organizers say, the free exhibition is a walk-through experience of Mannheimer’s book that explores the power of imagination. They note it addresses universal fears of the unknown, such as what might be under the bed or inside the closet door, while “encouraging young readers to pause, breathe and take charge of their imaginations with a message that resonates with adults as well.” “What’s in the Closet?” is the second in a series of picture books geared toward therapeutic teaching.
Mannheimer, a Haverhill native and advocate for Haverhill’s arts community, has integrated art into her therapeutic practice, creating work that supports emotional awareness and healing.
There will also be a public reception with the author and artist Friday, Feb. 27, from 5-7 p.m. Gallery hour are Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.
Separately, Creative Haverhill and Good and Golden Books plan a Children’s story time and craft session with Mannheimer reading her book and craft activities for children ages 3 to 7. There is a $5 fee per child. It takes place Saturday, March 7, from 10-10:45 a.m., at the gallery. Tickets are available at goodandgoldenbooks.com/events.