The Needham Merchants Association's "A Chair To Remember" project brings together local artists, businesses and organizations in an effort to draw more people downtown and encourage them to shop local.

Placed throughout downtown Needham, each Adirondack chair has its own theme and was painted by a local artist. The chairs will be auctioned off at an event in September, with proceeds to benefit town beautification projects and local students.

Needham Patch will be profiling some of the artists behind these creations throughout the summer. This week, we chat with Gina McClellan, whose chair can be seen at Hillcrest Gardens.

For a full list of chairs, artists and locations, click here.

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Title: "Summer Flora"
Artist: Gina McClellan
Sponsored by: Hillcrest Gardens
Find it at: Hillcrest Gardens, 888 Great Plain Ave.

Why did you decide to participate in this project? I wanted the challenge. I recently began experimenting with painting designs on furniture and wanted to design something for the Adirondacks. It was great to see the Needham merchants pulling together to create this project to bring attention to the town and their businesses.

What was your inspiration for the piece? I walked through Hillcrest Gardens with my camera and looked at all the gorgeous plants and plant combinations in containers. I went home to come up with a design that reflected the beauty of the grounds around the house and garden.

What is your background as an artist? I was a graphic design major and worked in design studios for some time. I am now teaching art classes in an after-school and summer program for the Needham Public Schools. 

What media do you use? The media I work in now are pastels, colored pencil and acrylic paints. 

Where can someone see more of your work? I do not have any work currently on display.

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Click here to read more profiles of "A Chair To Remember" artists.