One image displays brightly colored flowers at the bottom and a classic New England forest and American flag at the top.
This painting is called “Cultivate” and is one of many meaningful paintings conducted by Old Rochester Regional High School rising senior Alia Cusolito.
The image captures what it is like for a liberal-minded member of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender and Questioning community to grow up in Rochester, a conservative farm town. The title “Cultivate” represents the growth needed for a farm community to thrive, as well as the growth needed for a LGBTQ student to thrive in such a community.
For the first time in recent memory, according to Mattapoisett Historical Society Museum members, the museum hosted an art exhibit from one local student.
Cusolito says it started off as a contest in which museum directors called for paintings and other art during Pride Month. Cusolito did just that but also impressed members with art representing life as a small-town teen, as well as art capturing the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community.
Cusolito hosted an exhibit last Saturday and was busy chatting about art with members of the public.
Some were paintings and some were collages. Almost all drew “oohs” and “ahs” from members of the public who were in and out on a sunny Saturday afternoon.
A lover of all arts, including music, Cusolito’s work reflected some diverse interests, including one spontaneous jam session with a guitarist friend. Cusolito has been singing in chorus since elementary school and also plays the piano and banjo. The colorful painting of friend Jay captured the sheer joy of spontaneous music for teens.
“It’s my friend group and my sense of community and joy with them,” Cusolito said. “I wanted to convey that.”
Another painting captured what it is like for LGBTQ students to grow up in America today. Others tackled racism, climate change and standing up against violence. Some featured paintings, collage cut-outs from magazines and other media all in one.
“I like having mixed media. It’s more of an interesting combination,” Cusolito said.
In addition to art, Cusolito is also the copresident of the nonprofit Queer Youth Ensemble and has been an activist since early childhood.
“Alia strongly believes that everyone can make a change in the world, and that we should all try to do so,” read a description under a photo of Cusolito at the exhibit.
People walking by were inspired by the messages.
Carole Clifford, a member of the museum’s Board of Directors, said earlier that weekend a walk was conducted and people were moved by Cusolito’s talent and depth.
“It’s very timely,” Clifford said of those messages.
“It’s very powerful,” Exhibits Committee member Missy Rogina said of Cusolito’s work. “Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but each piece has a powerful message.”
By Jeffrey D. Wagner