A handsome piece of calligraphy that artist Polly McGrory designed as a gift for her aunt, Mary McGrory.
On Saturday, March 17 from 2-4 p.m., McGrory & Wolf Gallery in Waldoboro will hold a special celebration for St. Patrick’s Day. On display will be a handsome piece of calligraphy, 1980 vintage, that gallery owner and artist Polly McGrory designed as a gift for her aunt, Mary McGrory. Mary McGrory wrote a political commentary column for The Washington Post and won many awards, including a Pulitzer Prize, during her long career.
Mary McGrory was fond of all things Irish, especially the elegant lettering style known as “uncial,” which was a combination of caps and lower case letters, giving it a unique Celtic look. The hand-done calligraphy in emerald green ink is of the famous “Irish Prayer” and is embellished with gold shamrocks and accompanied by a photo of the impossibly green rolling hills of the Irish countryside. The calligraphy hung in Mary McGrory’s famous “Hallway Gallery,” and was a favorite attraction for her many dinner party guests. After she died in 2004, the piece was returned to Polly McGrory.
At 2:30 p.m., Polly McGrory will read a short excerpt from her own memoir describing her reason for creating this particular gift. Refreshments will be served, and the event is free. The gallery is at 9 Friendship St. in Waldoboro. For more information, go to mcgroryandwolf.com or call 790-1427.
