September 1 to 30, 2026, at the SDG Library, Alexandria.

“No wrong, no rules, no expectations, no fear, no possibility of failure—just fun playing with paints.”

Barbara Lehtiniemi has taken her life-long fascination with colour on a journey with acrylic paints.  

She will exhibit a collection of her paintings during the month of September* at the Alexandria branch of the SDG Library.  This is her first solo exhibition of paintings; most have never been shown publicly before.

“I’ve only been painting for 16 months.  I was long-intrigued with the idea of painting, but didn’t know how to get started.  A visit to an art-supply store is overwhelming for a novice—too many choices”

After a 5-session acrylic-painting workshop hosted by Glengarry Encore in April 2025, Barbara began her adventure with acrylic painting.  She considers herself  very much in the early exploration and experimentation phase of her journey.  

“Creativity with Acrylic instructor Yvonne Callaway encouraged experimentation, and she advised, ‘There is no wrong way.’  Advice I’ve taken to heart!  Not being burdened by knowing much about how I ‘should’ paint, I have the freedom to try anything:  ‘What happens if I try this?'”

Barbara’s paintings often reflect the same playfulness she brings to her painting process:  her paintings include a wine-drinking flower, dancing musical notes, and a kitchen timer.  Other works lean towards the abstract, letting the paint colours and shapes tell their own story.   The natural world, with its endless variations, lends elements to many of her paintings.

In addition to painting, Barbara expresses her creativity through sketching, photography, writing, knitting and anything else that catches her fancy.  

Barbara is a member of the The Collectif and draws great inspiration and encouragement from her fellow artists.  Originally from Cambridge, Ontario, Barbara has lived near Glen Robertson since 2010.  

Shapes of Things to Come, an exhibition of paintings by Barbara Lehtiniemi of Glen Robertson, runs at the Alexandria Library, 170A MacDonald Blvd in Alexandria, from September 1 to 30*.  A artist’s “Meet & Greet” is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, from 11am to noon.

For library hours, visit www.sdglibrary.ca or phone the branch at 613-525-3241.

*sneak-peek!  Many paintings will be on display at the library beginning August 12.