Local artist Linda Littleton

Sharing the scenes in our community  

By Barbara Van Reed

Art appreciation is often left for trips and visits to museums; we sometimes forget that artists live and work right here among us.

One of our local artists is Linda Littleton, who's best known for her watercolors of Webster Lake: wonderful, fun prints of the fireworks, the Point Breeze gas dock, the Regatta, boat houses, and homes.

We asked Linda how long she's been painting. “Forever,” she said. “I started at age seven, won an art contest, and just kept on going.” Her artwork is on display locally at Booklovers' Gourmet, Point Breeze, and Webster Lake Gifts. She also has four prints hanging in Senator John Kerry's office in Washington DC. She has sold works to clients across the US and in Europe.

Linda is largely self-taught, but frequently attends art workshops and has studied with many prominent artists over the years. She's branched out recently with more abstract watercolors and acrylics. Her new style is on display now at the Silver Circle Gallery in Putnam and at Celebrations in Pomfret.

“Art is an ever-changing process of development, and although I love doing house portraits and traditional watercolors, I am always exploring new styles with new artists to further develop my own artistic talents,” she said.

She is a full artist member of the Rhode Island Water Color Society, where she exhibits regularly, the New England Water Color Society, and Worcester Arts.

Linda's life has always involved teaching as well: she was a teacher in Framingham before retiring and moving to Webster, and is today a substitute teacher in the Southbridge Public Schools. So it's no surprise that she gives lessons in watercolors, acrylics, and oils in her home studio, and teaches art to school-age children over the summer.

She laments the reduction of arts education in the public schools. “The schools have had to make serious cuts in art and music, and school-age kids really benefit from cultural education, of which they receive a minimal amount during the MCAS-packed day. I think people forget that societies are remembered for their art, music, and literature and I think we do not appreciate these talents enough in today's education. They are so important for the future of a healthy society.”

Linda was recently appointed to Webster's Cultural Arts Committee. “We have many talented artists in the area who need exposure, a place to exhibit their work, teach, and share this interest. I would love to see a community artist center/cultural center that can enhance the fine arts, theater, and musical performances in our area for all ages to enjoy. Art and artists can play an important role in rejuvenating our town for the future.”

Along with many other community activities, Linda was one of the original members and officers of the Webster Lake Association, which was founded ten years ago to protect the water quality of the Lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. She writes a periodic column for this newspaper updating residents on what's happening, the association's many fundraising events and activities. Linda has a writing background too. She told us she was the teen editor for the Salem Daily News, covering all of the high school events and stars of that age group.

You can check out Linda's art work at one of the venues listed above, or visit her website at LindaLittletonArt.com. The site also has information on her custom artwork. For example, she will paint a picture of your home or business, boat, plane, or car, and make note cards of it as well.  Sounds to us like a great holiday gift possibility. You can also reach her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 508-943-3972. 

Thank you, Linda, for sharing your love of art with us all.