In recognition of May 20 as global Endangered Species Day, the Ocean County Library is pleased to host Endangered Species, by Barbara Kraemer and Suzi Hoffman, throughout May in the McConnell Gallery.

The aim of the multi-media collection, including watercolors, acrylics and oil paintings, is to raise awareness of animals imperiled by adverse conditions.

“I’m concerned about our dramatically changing climate across the world and the threat it poses to all living things,” Hoffman said.

Hoffman made her mark as a freelance writer and graphic designer, serving clients from major newspapers to theaters and performing arts centers. Prior to that, she served as marketing manager for Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park in Washington, DC.

She majored in Art at Endicott College in New England, and studied at the Corcoran Gallery of Art School in Washington DC, Lake Placid Center for Music Drama and Art in New York, and the Paducah School of Art and Design in Kentucky.

During a distinguished 42-year career, Kraemer expressed her love of art through interior design. She worked in advertising for major New York agencies, wrote and designed corporate publications, and continues writing newsletters for several organizations. She teaches art while continuing to study with renowned artists. She holds a BA in Mass Communications and Public Relations from Monmouth University.

“I want to bring color and smiles to our world and painting is a way to do this,” Kraemer said. “I especially like working with new artists to help expand their horizons into the world of exhibiting.”

Both artists have staged several joint art exhibits at the Jersey Shore since meeting at Pine Shores Art Association in Manahawkin. Both hope that the Endangered Species exhibit will help to remind viewers that “the wild world needs awareness and protection.”

Endangered Species is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library, (732)349-6200 ext. 5100, or visit www.theoceancountylibrary.org.

IMAGE: “Giant Panda,” courtesy Barbara Kraemer