Douglas hosts 'Friends near and far' at open air gallery

This August marks the sixth anniversary of opening Carol L. Douglas Studio on Commercial Street in Rockport. Douglas has invited students who’ve participated in her classes or workshops to submit a piece to "Friends near and far," which opens on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 394 Commercial St.

“People often tell me things like, ‘I can’t draw a straight line,’ or ‘I have no talent,’” said Douglas, who has taught painting for 20 years. “It’s a myth that art is based on talent. Great artists get that way through sheer hard work.”

In past generations, Douglas says, the ability to draw was as important as the ability to write or do mathematics. While not everyone went on to be a professional artist, the average person could draw. “I’ve taught enough people to know that they blossom and grow in amazing ways,” she said.

Douglas continues to operate her gallery out-of-doors to make safe social distancing. “Bring your own wine glass,” she said. “And, of course, bring your mask.”