The art of 'The Syndicate'

HIGHLAND MILLS — The Woodbury Public Library's "Artists of the Month" for January are Kayla-Marie Bienwald and Anthony DaSilva.
Together they form "Syndicate," a cooperative exhibition.
The artists will attend a reception in their honor at the Highland Mills Library from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 6.
The artists have provided the following biographical information:
Kayla-Marie Bienwald"I am a fashion design student at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in my senior year. Textile design is an essential aspect in my design work and garment construction.
"Although I'm currently based in Boston, I grew up in Newburgh and a good portion of inspiration stems from my childhood and the manner I was raised.
"I've always been fascinated by my heritage and blends of different cultures. Art museums and historical periods are often sources of inspiration for me as well.
"You'd be surprised what can result from seeing a wacky sculpture or innovative architecture.
"In my work I make a point to abstract something normally recognizable to keep the viewer engaged and actively thinking. The more your eyes wander around the piece the better in my eyes."
Anthony DaSilva"I am a freshman in the BFA Musical Theatre program at Montclair State University. Although theatre is my life, photography has always been a passion of mine.
"Usually, my gallery is Instagram, so I am so thankful to be a part of this show.
" Kayla and I went to HS together and have always had a symbiotic relationship. Though we differ in many ways, like our subject matter, our love for art has kept us together over the passing years.
"Growing up in the Hudson Valley, my life has been a conjuncture of both urban and rural; city in harmony with nature. That was what this show was about for me: bringing the constantly opposing forces together while showing my “window to the world” through snapshots.
"My goal for this show is three-fold: for you to leave with a wanting to observe the world around you, to appreciate the fact that beauty can be found in the most random places, and to embrace the fact that we are a part of something much larger.
"Enjoy."
The Rushmore Memorial branch of the Woodbury Public Library is located at 16 State Route 105 in Highland Mills.