By Kathleen Brady Shea, Managing Editor, The Times

Lindsay Brinton (right), founding and outgoing director of Art Partners Studio, receives congratulations on her retirement from James D. Ziegler, a former board member.

The reaction to “Rites of Spring,” a multi-faceted, mixed-media art extravaganza at Graystone Mansion on Wednesday night was unanimously enthusiastic.

“Wow! How vibrant!” one man exclaimed as he walked through the entrance of the elegant Collegiate Gothic building, constructed by steel matriarch Rebecca Lukens’ grandson in 1889. The ornate first floor of the former residence, replete with intricate woodcarvings, was further embellished by the dramatic displays of artwork, which ranged from anime to murals, collage to ceramics.

Hosted by Art Partners Studio, the colorful event served as a welcome to spring as well as the studio’s new executive director, Terry Foreman, an opportunity to showcase the artistry of staff and students, and a chance to celebrate the efforts of founding director Lindsay Brinton, who recently retired.

All available spaces on the first floor of the Graystone Mansion featured artwork during “Rites of Spring.”

“I’m just thrilled,” said Brinton as she surveyed the crowd and applauded the multiple displays. “This proves art is alive in Coatesville,” she said, adding that she believes it helps promote the health and vibrancy of the community.

With live music by John Riordan and Jim Crane and refreshments, more than a hundred visitors strolled through the exhibits, stopping to chat with the instructors, neighbors, and fellow art enthusiasts. Many had proud children in tow, who were eager to point out their work.

Interspersed among the drawings and paintings were quotes from some of the parents and participants. “My daughter has really been enjoying the art classes at East Fallowfield. Thank you so much for giving my daughter the opportunity to learn and express herself with art,” wrote Melissa. Another parent, Lena, said the classes had piqued her daughter’s passion for photography: “I am most grateful that you offer this class for free … and the instruction is top-notch.”

Chrissy DelliCompagni said two of her children had taken classes and will likely continue to do so. “They made tons of stuff and really had a good time,” she said. Her daughter, Ava, 9, took a class with her next-door neighbor, Julia Zeller, 8, and the two beamed as they showed off their side-by-side creations.

Like many other visitors, Amy Amer said she had never been inside the mansion before and was very impressed with all of its lavish architectural details. But even more astounding was the fact that art triumphed over Xbox, she said. Two years ago she urged her 17-year-old son Dylan to take a course because she wanted him to spend less time with the video game system. Now, given a choice, “he’d rather do art,” she said.

Addressing the crowd, Foreman, a founding member and executive director of the Newark Arts Alliance in Newark, De., said she’s thrilled with “her wonderful new adopted home.” She said she has a 45-minute commute, but “it’s worth the trip” to encounter so many supportive people.

Foreman said she hopes to continue to grow the studio, a venture that would never have happened without Brinton’s dedication. She said she would be looking for new venues for art projects as well as more volunteers. For example, anyone with an interest in horticulture would be welcome to assist with the studio’s garden.

Almost on cue to reinforce Foreman’s positive impressions of an energetic community, 8-year-old Kenzie Connor waved her hand wildly. “Me, me,” she said. Foreman smiled, welcoming the offer as well as the enthusiasm.

Art Partners Studio runs a variety of programs artists of all ages, including classes, exhibitions, hands-on activities at city events, and community art projects. To request a class brochure, or to learn about the studio’s scholarship program, call the office at 610-384-3030, e-mail admin@artpartnersstudio.org or visit the website at www.artpartnersstudio.org. Art Partners Studio is located at 524 E. Lincoln Highway, in Coatesville, directly across from the Coatesville library.