Dozens of fans, friends and art enthusiasts attended a reception at the Farmington Valley Arts Center on Friday to open an exhibit by Simsbury resident Melissa Croghan.

“The Real and Marvelous Mother America” runs through April 4 at the center's Esther Drezner Visitor’s Gallery and features several of Croghan’s oil paintings that were inspired by events surrounding the 9/11 attacks.

The artist, who spent the evening circulating among visitors, said she strives to create “conversation pieces” that provoke thought and discussion.

“It’s very gratifying to see so many art lovers in the Farmington Valley,” she said. “I got the word out, they came and they were engaged in the art.”

One visitor, Susan Farnam of West Simsbury, described Croghan’s style as “alive and expressive. I love art that conveys messages.”

A small group of admirers surrounded a painting of a winter scene entitled, “The Mountain’s Stable.”

“I like the use of colors, especially the mix of blues yellows and golds,” said Collinsville resident Jim Koplar, who also is an artist.

Many of Croghan’s pieces feature various images of the Statue of Liberty, which she calls “Lady Liberty.”

The largest painting in the exhibit is “Up She Rises,” which is 5 feet tall and shows an interpretive rendition of “Lady Liberty” holding a tablet as she floats upward.

The paint was still drying on Croghan’s latest work, “A Flock of Faiths We Are,” which explores the idea that America was founded on religious tolerance.

Susan Sharkey of Simsbury offered an opinion that was held by many at the reception:  “I like Melissa’s work,” she said. “It’s very colorful and interpretative.”

Admission to Croghan’s exhibit is free. It can be viewed Wednesday to Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at the arts center.

For those interested in learning more about her philosophy and technique, she will lead two workshops called “Identity & the Creative Process” on Saturday, March 19, at the arts center. 

The session for children 8 to 12 will run from 10 a.m. to noon and offer hands-on art and writing activities.

The teen and adult session will run from 1 to 3 p.m. and will focus on Croghan’s symbolism, as well as on the connection between creative exploration and national consciousness.

For more information, call 860-678-1867 or visit www.artsvac.org

The Farmington Valley Arts Center is located at 25 Arts Center Lane in Avon Park North, Avon.