Kaleidoscope, a joyful and energetic collection of paintings by local artist Lee Dunholter, will be on view from Friday, June 6 through the end of July.
An Opening Reception will be held on First Friday, June 6, from 5–7pm, with the artist in attendance to meet visitors and answer questions about his work.
With Kaleidoscope, Dunholter invites viewers to experience art that’s bold, playful, and bursting with color. “I’m hoping to spark something—maybe a smile, a memory, or just a moment of joy,” he says.
The pieces in the exhibit are full of energy—bright hues, dynamic shapes, and eye-catching graphics that demand attention. “My work is all about mixing it up,” Dunholter explains. “Lines, planes, images, and bursts of color come together in ways that feel both familiar and full of surprise.”
Recently, Dunholter has introduced a grid-based approach to sketching his compositions. “Sounds serious, right?” he jokes. “But really, it’s just a playful way to bounce between structure and spontaneity. The grid gives me something to push against—a launching pad for building visuals that are vibrant, unexpected, and just a little offbeat.”
The exhibit aligns perfectly with the library’s Summer Reading theme: Color Our World.
“We are so excited to share Lee Dunholter’s work at the library this summer,” said Aimee LaRue, Public Services Librarian. “His art brings an incredible energy and vibrancy that’s sure to brighten the space—and the season—for all our visitors.”
Dunholter sums up his artistic process simply: “It’s all about color, form, and following wherever my thoughts happen to wander.”
About the artist:
Professor Emeritus at Franklin Pierce University, Lee Dunholter is an accomplished artist and scenic designer. He previously served as the scenic designer for the Peterborough Players, the New Hampshire Dance Institute (NHDI), and was the principal designer for the World Room: Interactive Exhibits at the former Keene Children’s Museum.
Lee holds degrees from the University of Cincinnati (OCAS), Franklin Pierce College, and Harvard University. He also pursued studies at the Cincinnati Art Academy and the Banff School of Fine Arts.
Throughout his career, Professor Dunholter has received numerous accolades, including an Ewing Arts Award for his contributions as an artist and scenic designer. He was also honored by The Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (ACTF) for excellence in teaching scenic design.
Before entering academia, Lee maintained a studio/gallery in Ojai, California. His paintings are held in private collections across California, Washington, D.C., and New England.
He now works out of his studio in Peterborough, New Hampshire.
