May artist at Monroeville library prefers unconventional pieces

Morgan Anders doesn’t like to paint on typical canvases.

“I find random objects to paint on, such as irons, cabinet doors and church pews,” said Anders, who signs all of her pieces as Morganza Paisley.

In particular, she is drawn to discarded and unwanted items.

The Friends of the Monroeville Public Library will host Anders’ work in May’s art exhibit at the library’s Elaine Biondi Gallery Space. A reception will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on May 18.

Anders’ passion for drawing began at a young age, while living on a farm in the rural North Carolina mountains. She would draw horses and other wildlife. It was when she moved to Pittsburgh during college that Anders discovered painting.

“I had actually never picked up a paintbrush until my second year in college,” she said. “I took a painting class and fell in love with the medium.” Her first portrait – painted on a toilet seat - will be on display at the exhibit.

“I love to paint human portraits, specifically the older generation or people who have interesting features,” said Anders, who stated that she attempts to express human emotions, such as crying or yelling, in her pieces. “I try to capture intense feelings in my artwork in hopes that the viewer may relate and feel comfort or as if they are not alone.”

As an art therapist who works with elementary age students, Anders said that she has the privilege of working with young clients who have experienced traumatic events.

Anders uses art as an outlet when she comes home with “heavy boots” from a particularly trying day. And it’s through the universal language of art that Anders can process extremely difficult emotions.

“Being an art therapist has really inspired me to want to normalize and focus on human expression with my art,” she said.

Anders resides in White Oak with her significant other, their two toddlers and two dogs. She often paints at night, and continues to find inspiration from growing up in the mountains.

Although artwork is her passion, Anders admits it hasn’t always been easy for her.

“In the past few years, I’ve been rejected from multiple art clubs and exhibits,” she indicated. “I could have taken those rejections and given up, but at the end of the day, my primary focus is showing my kids that Momma doesn’t give up.”

The Monroeville Public Library is located at 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd. For more, contact the Friends group at monroevillelibraryfriends@gmail.com.