FARMINGTON — SugarWood Gallery welcomes Cynthia Cormier as April’s Artist of the Month. An open house reception is set for 5-8 p.m. Friday, April 1. Cormier’s work will remain on exhibit and available for sale through April.

Cormier lives on Worthley Pond in Peru, Maine. For nearly 19 years the abundance of nature, sunsets over the mountains and wildlife around her has inspired her to become a self-taught artist. A camera always at the ready, that spontaneous shot just might be the inspiration for her next painting.

She paints mainly with pastels and acrylics but also does an occasional portrait in pencil. She knew at a very young age that she loved to draw, but it wasn’t until she was in her 30s that she could devote time for painting.

Painting brings her a sense of joy and freedom. Expressing the vibrant colors of feathers and the soft texture of fur can only be achieved through the use of pastels.

SugarWood Gallery is located at 248 Broadway. Hours are 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.