A long hallway, affectionately called “the link,” connects the two buildings at Esprit Whispering Ridge in Omaha, Neb.  It used to be a hundred yards of stark, functional, empty wall space.  Now it is an art gallery showcasing the work of emerging Omaha artists — to the delight of residents, their families and the community.

A long hallway, affectionately called “the link,” connects the two buildings at Esprit Whispering Ridge in Omaha, Neb.  It used to be a hundred yards of stark, functional, empty wall space.  Now it is an art gallery showcasing the work of emerging Omaha artists — to the delight of residents, their families and the community.

Last Sunday (January 25) at a cocktail reception displaying over 30 pieces of emerging artist Brian Brigham’s work, “the link” officially became the home of a new program called ArtLink. 

“Our residents are hungry for cultural and educational programming, and emerging local artists are always looking for a venue to present their works,” said Gail Little-Osberg, executive director of Ecumen-managed Esprit Whispering Ridge.  “So, we’re bringing these needs together with our new ArtLink program.  Plus, we’re welcoming the entire community to join us, get to know us and enjoy this exceptional art.”

The Esprit Whispering Ridge ArtLink exhibit will be the first formal showing of Brian Brigham’s work. His work has been displayed at Omaha-area art supply stores and coffee shops and at the University of Nebraska College of Veterinary Medicine in Curtis, Neb., but the Esprit venue is his first show, which runs through March 13, 2015. 

Brigham displayed a work in progress and chatted with guests, residents and families gathered at the event, which featured a harpist, a wine bar, and a buffet. 

“I enjoy the work and effort it takes to produce a But, even more than that, I enjoy meeting with those who take the time to come and consider it,” Brigham says.

Brigham says he had a passion for art since he drew a tree in kindergarten and got a compliment from his teacher.  But he put his artistic aspirations on hold until about five years ago when his wife enrolled him in an open air art class using pastels.  The class revived his passion, and he has been pursuing his art ever since. 

Brigham’s opening is the first in a series of art exhibits at Esprit Whispering Ridge planned for 2015. The next show will open in April and others will be held on a regular basis throughout the year.