[ Originally published on: Friday, June 11, 2004 in the Daily Hampshire Gazette]
GRANBY - Those who attend Granby Charter Days this Saturday and Sunday are in for a surprise, but only if they're willing to look for it.
Artist Wayne Gagnon, a lifelong Granby resident, has created a series of 10 paintings that will be displayed during the event.
But there's a catch. Instead of exhibiting his paintings in the typical, straightforward fashion, Gagnon has designed a ''Picture Safari.'' The safari takes fairgoers on a sort of scavenger hunt throughout the grounds in search of the paintings, which depict animals in a variety of scenes. Participants will be given an illustrated checklist to keep track of their findings.
''They're far from realistic, but definitely recognizable,'' Gagnon said of the creatures he's created. ''They're quirky enough for a second look.''
The three-day fair runs Friday evening through Sunday at Dufresne Park, off Kendall Street. The event celebrates the incorporation of Granby on June 6, 1768, with games, food, rides and exhibits.
Gagnon worked for 21 years as a captain in the Granby Fire Department. He recently left that job to pursue artistic endeavors like the Picture Safari, and to spend more time with his family. Visitors to Charter Days will be able to meet with him and discuss his work at ''Safari Headquarters,'' on the Charter Day grounds.
Also at Safari Headquarters, Gagnon explained that ''kids and adults with kid tendencies'' will be able to participate in free art-related activities. Easels will be set up for drawing and craft areas will be available for public use.
''I wanted to promote art in the community,'' Gagnon said. He stressed the importance of providing the free activities during Charter Day in hopes that people would become interested not only in his work, but in issues like environmental awareness and literacy.
The three-day Charter Days event runs from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday; from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.