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Zwolski's painting, "Cool Heat," is part of the Front Steet Gallery's red exhibit, which continues through March 29.
"I am so excited to be a part of this show," Zwolski said. "My work is inspired by nature. I like the contrast in nature. Nature is calm and chaotic and the texture is rough and smooth."
Being a fan of the color red made Zwolski want to be a part of the exhibit.
"It symbolizes joy and happiness," Zwolski said. "I use a lot of red in my work. I decided to interpret the nature of my favorite color."
Zwolski spent 34 years teaching K-12 at the Lakeland School District before she retired seven years ago.
"Now I'm able to dedicate all my time for my work," Zwolski said. "My students taught me very well."
One day on Zwolski's birthday, faculty and students at Lakeland wore red because they knew it was her favorite color.
"It was one of those magical moments," Zwolski said. "It was like walking through a painting."
The painter's work has been displayed at the Garrison Arts Center and in Westchester, Delaware and Connecticut. Zwolski said she feels privileged to be able to paint in Putnam and she paints at the Hudson River with a group of painters.
"We are greatly inspired by this area," Zwolski said. "I am very thankful to be in this area. It's very exciting."
Zwolski said it takes a long time to complete one of her paintings as she does many layers before finishing. She said she often will work on multiple pieces at once.
Serving on the board of trustees of the Putnam Arts Council gives Zwolski a first-hand view that the arts are alive and well in Putnam County.
"There are a nice group of artists in Putnam, from music to artwork," Zwolski said.
Zwolski said the Front Street Gallery is a wonderful place to have her art shown.
"The people there are lovely to be with and to talk about art with," Zwolski said. "I am thrilled."
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