Over 30 artists at a dozen locations in Natick either opened up their studios or set up tables in a group setting to display their offerings over the weekend at the annual two-day Natick Artist Open Studios event. The art-loving public came out in good numbers on a beautiful fall day to check out (and buy) the work of local silversmiths; painters, metal workers; ceramicists, fabric artists, woodworkers, photographers, jewelers; and more.

By the count of artist and record-keeper extraordinaire Jo LaFalce, by Saturday visitors from 14 cities and towns, including Madrid, had come through the 23 Adams Street studios alone. That’s not Madrid, Maine or Madrid, Kentucky, by the way. That’s as in Madrid, Spain. This event is getting quite a global feel to it.

Family Diversity Photo Show

New this year is a Family Diversity photo exhibit, on display upstairs in the sanctuary of the historical First Congregational Church through October 23. Sponsored by the Hanna family, the poignant exhibit features portraits of families who have grappled with the mental illness of one of their own. Each photo is combined with a compelling account of the family’s struggles and triumphs that show strength, courage, integrity, and accomplishment in the face of adversity and stigma. Stop by the Natick Center church and find out how people living with mental illness and their families have come out of the shadows and into the public eye.