'Divergent Paths' by Watercooler Sisters on Exhibit June-July at The Gallery at The Garlands

The art exhibit, "Divergent Paths," on display at The Gallery at The Garlands of Barrington now through the end of July features work by a group of talented women artists and friends who are equally passionate about creating art and supporting each other's artistic endeavors. The self-named Watercooler Sisters - a result of a happy accident on a restaurant reservation - are showing a variety of work in acrylic, casein, ink, mixed media, oil, pastel and watercolor.

The public is invited to view the "Divergent Paths" exhibit at The Gallery at The Garlands, 1000 Garlands Lane, Barrington, off Northwest Highway by the Barrington Area Library, daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. free of charge. For information, please call The Garlands concierge at (847) 756-3000.

The Watercooler Sisters are Sandra Buhl (Huntley), Charlotte Lattof (Arlington Heights), Mary Jo Martin (Barrington), Lynn Miller (Lake Zurich), Rita Molepske (Arlington Heights), Betty Morley (Arlington Heights), Carol Fink-Sackschewsky (Antioch), Laurie Schreiber (Fox Lake), Judy Sinn (Mundelein) and Gloria J. Zucaro (Rolling Meadows). The women met in painting classes over 10 years ago and have developed strong friendships. A shared desire to grow and express themselves in painting and drawing, to explore new media, to appreciate and support each other's efforts, and have lots of laughs together while enjoying good food and drink keeps the tight-knit group together.

Some are lifetime artists and others started creating later in life.

"My journey as an artist is about reclaiming the artist that has been forgotten," said Watercooler artist Sandra Buhl. "I have learned to see differently, not with my mind telling me what I know, but rather with my eyes. I strive to quiet the chattering mind, the conscious critic and just watch the amazing surprises happen."

The Garlands is a unique continuing care retirement community for people ages 55 and older that provides residents an uncompromising lifestyle in a resort setting with on-site assisted and nursing care as needed. For more information about The Garlands, please visit the website at www.TheGarlands.com.