FEATURED ARTISTS
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DAN FRIEND
DFriend150@gmail.com
Although my love for photography started many years ago when I saw that B&W print come to life in the developer tray under an amber safe-light, digital photography and Photoshop renewed an old love affair for me. I have retired from working as a full time photographer for a University and today I have a small photo company that I license images for all manner of commercial and editorial use and sell fine art prints.
Work background: Operated my own Photographic Studio 15 years doing portraits and wedding. Then worked as Photographer at West Virginia University for 30 years retiring as manager of WVU Photographic Services. Since retiring I operate DLF Photo, licensing images for all manner of commercial and editorial use and sell fine art prints.
DFriend150@gmail.com
Although my love for photography started many years ago when I saw that B&W print come to life in the developer tray under an amber safe-light, digital photography and Photoshop renewed an old love affair for me. I have retired from working as a full time photographer for a University and today I have a small photo company that I license images for all manner of commercial and editorial use and sell fine art prints.
Work background: Operated my own Photographic Studio 15 years doing portraits and wedding. Then worked as Photographer at West Virginia University for 30 years retiring as manager of WVU Photographic Services. Since retiring I operate DLF Photo, licensing images for all manner of commercial and editorial use and sell fine art prints.
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ALISA IRISOVA Art is the personal expression of the artist's life experiences, and Alisa Irisova's life is rich with experience. Alisa and her husband fled Moscow in late March 2022, right after the beginning of Putin's War on Ukraine. Alisa was a journalist, book writer and editor for TASS, the official media of the Russian Federation. Her husband was a military journalist for TASS, and had been an officer in the Russian Army as a translator. But they spoke out against the war and their lives were in danger. Two months and five countries later, on planes, trains and on foot, carrying only their worldly possessions and their child, they entered the US, where they applied for political asylum. Good fortune and a series of events brought them to West Virginia to begin their new lives. Alisa continues to express her emotional journey, her memories and her concern for the children of Ukraine on canvas. "Bomb Shelter," "Journey to Hope," and "No more War'' are the beginning of a series depicting war through the eyes of innocent children. All proceeds from the sales of her art will be donated to the support of the Children of Ukraine through local organizations. |
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TONY KLEB
I grew up in New Jersey spending a lot of my time in the woods, on the lakes, and at the ocean. I
had taken art classes in high school and enjoyed them, but quickly lost interest once I got my
first car. I have been fishing since I was five, and that interest has carried through even
through today. I started fly fishing and tying flies after graduating from college. I moved to
West Virginia in 1978 following a sales career as a SALESPERSON selling paper and packaging
supplies, retiring from International Paper in 2018. My wife and I now spend our time with the
grandchildren, gardening, and when we can, camping across the U.S. with our dog, Buster, fly
fishing, hiking and more fly fishing. Post Covid I joined Morgantown Art Association and rekindled
my enjoyment of creating art both with water colors and colored pencil. One of the
highlights of my week is attending Monday class with Susan Witt along with many friends I’ve
made in class.
I grew up in New Jersey spending a lot of my time in the woods, on the lakes, and at the ocean. I
had taken art classes in high school and enjoyed them, but quickly lost interest once I got my
first car. I have been fishing since I was five, and that interest has carried through even
through today. I started fly fishing and tying flies after graduating from college. I moved to
West Virginia in 1978 following a sales career as a SALESPERSON selling paper and packaging
supplies, retiring from International Paper in 2018. My wife and I now spend our time with the
grandchildren, gardening, and when we can, camping across the U.S. with our dog, Buster, fly
fishing, hiking and more fly fishing. Post Covid I joined Morgantown Art Association and rekindled
my enjoyment of creating art both with water colors and colored pencil. One of the
highlights of my week is attending Monday class with Susan Witt along with many friends I’ve
made in class.
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LISA RYAN
Lisa Faye (Rockwell) Ryan, the Featured Artist for January 2023, started drawing and painting
while growing up in Staunton, Virginia. She was mentored in oil painting by her grandmother,
Dorothy Hughes, when she visited her Farmington, West Virginia home during the summers. She
took drawing and oil painting classes while attending the University of Virginia, where she
majored in English Language and Literature. She earned a Master of Arts degree in Writing and
Publishing from Emerson College in Boston, where she honed her fiction writing and
screenwriting skills. After earning a Master of Science in Library Science degree from the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she worked as an Information Specialist and
Index/Abstracter. She founded and developed the business, Stellar Searches LLC, for which she
conducts searching and indexing. After moving with her husband, Stephen, to Mount Sterling,
Kentucky in 2006, she took watercolor classes at the Gateway Regional Arts Center there. For
Woman’s History Month in March 2020, she exhibited oil paintings done by herself and her
grandmother of the same landscape subject at the Gateway Regional Arts Center. In the
summer of 2021, she and her husband moved to her Dad’s childhood home in Enterprise, West
Virginia to be closer to family. She soon joined the Morgantown Art Association, where she has
been taking watercolor classes and workshops and exhibiting her work.
Lisa Faye (Rockwell) Ryan, the Featured Artist for January 2023, started drawing and painting
while growing up in Staunton, Virginia. She was mentored in oil painting by her grandmother,
Dorothy Hughes, when she visited her Farmington, West Virginia home during the summers. She
took drawing and oil painting classes while attending the University of Virginia, where she
majored in English Language and Literature. She earned a Master of Arts degree in Writing and
Publishing from Emerson College in Boston, where she honed her fiction writing and
screenwriting skills. After earning a Master of Science in Library Science degree from the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she worked as an Information Specialist and
Index/Abstracter. She founded and developed the business, Stellar Searches LLC, for which she
conducts searching and indexing. After moving with her husband, Stephen, to Mount Sterling,
Kentucky in 2006, she took watercolor classes at the Gateway Regional Arts Center there. For
Woman’s History Month in March 2020, she exhibited oil paintings done by herself and her
grandmother of the same landscape subject at the Gateway Regional Arts Center. In the
summer of 2021, she and her husband moved to her Dad’s childhood home in Enterprise, West
Virginia to be closer to family. She soon joined the Morgantown Art Association, where she has
been taking watercolor classes and workshops and exhibiting her work.
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NANCY MAUNZ
Nancy Manuz is a native of West Virginia. Her parents were born and raised high in the mountains.
She spent many hours in the Swiss village of Helvetia, roaming the hills, meadows and creek on
her grandparents’ farm, which later became her father’s hobby farm. There is where she began
her love affair with nature.
Nancy attended Fairmont State University, where she was awarded a scholarship to study art
and earned the title Art Student of the Year. She also earned graduate hours in art from
West Virginia University. Nancy taught art in West Virginia public and private schools for over
30 years. The longest stint was at University High School in Morgantown.
She has attended numerous lectures, classes and workshops, where she studied with regional
and nationally known artists. She has exhibited in cafes and galleries throughout her career.
Presently, she is active in The Thread art group, Morgantown Art Association, the Artists of
Waldomore, and the Arts Center in Elkins, WV. She is president-elect of the West Virginia
Watercolor Society.
Nancy primarily works in watercolor, but can be found on a bench in the park drawing. Her
preferred subject matter is nature.
She says, “To this day, after a walk, my pockets bulge with pinecones, seed pods, flower heads
and sometimes a feather or two. I love to lay them out and draw or paint these fragments
from nature.”
Nancy Manuz is a native of West Virginia. Her parents were born and raised high in the mountains.
She spent many hours in the Swiss village of Helvetia, roaming the hills, meadows and creek on
her grandparents’ farm, which later became her father’s hobby farm. There is where she began
her love affair with nature.
Nancy attended Fairmont State University, where she was awarded a scholarship to study art
and earned the title Art Student of the Year. She also earned graduate hours in art from
West Virginia University. Nancy taught art in West Virginia public and private schools for over
30 years. The longest stint was at University High School in Morgantown.
She has attended numerous lectures, classes and workshops, where she studied with regional
and nationally known artists. She has exhibited in cafes and galleries throughout her career.
Presently, she is active in The Thread art group, Morgantown Art Association, the Artists of
Waldomore, and the Arts Center in Elkins, WV. She is president-elect of the West Virginia
Watercolor Society.
Nancy primarily works in watercolor, but can be found on a bench in the park drawing. Her
preferred subject matter is nature.
She says, “To this day, after a walk, my pockets bulge with pinecones, seed pods, flower heads
and sometimes a feather or two. I love to lay them out and draw or paint these fragments
from nature.”
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JUDY HURST AND SUE HATFIELD
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OLGA ALEXANDRIA GAUJOT
I grew up thousands of miles away from the nearest large body of water, in Donetsk, Ukraine,
but I have always been drawn to the sea, salt, sand, and sun. In the1980s Ukraine was a part of
the Soviet Union and for vacations my parents (Lybov and Valeri) would often take my brother
(Mikhail) and I on to the Azov Sea and Black Sea, Ukraine. On these brief summer trips my
passion for seascapes first washed ashore. The images of the sky meeting the water, and then
water meeting the land made me feel more connected to the world beyond my home. It was
when I moved to the United Stated in 1996 and visited the ocean for the first time that I
witnessed the magnificence of the ocean scapes.
West Virginia became my home in 2003. I fell in love with the people, rivers and the mountains.
There are similarities between the Donetsk Province and West Virginia, both located on the 38th
Parallel, both regions are known for coal, and both have been in the middle of a Civil War.
When incorporate images of West Virginia into my art I feel more connected to home in Ukraine. I
have two amazing daughters Katya (18) and Maya (14) who was born and raised in WV. They are
always inspire my creativity and push me to do better in my life.
My passion for art and teaching grew drastically in 2020 during my dramatic battle with
breast cancer. Art became my therapy. I truly feel beauty is all around us, in the faces of
strangers, architecture, and even the ordinary nature. My observational drawings, sketches
and still lives are rooted in the Traditional Russian techniques that I learned at the Donetsk
Arts College. My teaching methods are based on the similar classes I attended in my home
country. I work with young students because their potential is limitless. Every day I strive to
grow as an artist, by engaging in drawing, painting and sketching. Every day I strive to grow as a
human, by connecting with others to build a community. I believe that Art and Music will save
the world. My partner Aristotle Jones and I started the Sounds Good Foundation which
DEdicated to art and music and serving underprivileged communities in West Virginia. I became
a member of Morgantown Art Association in 2021 and board member of Monongalia Art Center in
2022.
Serving the community became my lifelong interest and priority.
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BARBARA BEER
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STEVE HEAP
I’m Steve Heap, and I live to create images that will bring back memories of a happy
vacation or remind you of a place you used to call home!
My aim is to capture each location I visit in the best light and create a photograph,
that you would be truly proud to display in your home or office.
As a professional photographer, I have been very active in the stock photography
world with images printed in leading magazines, travel guides and international
publications. More recently, though, I have been more focused on the elusive task of
getting the perfect image of places I visit – ones that really speak to the viewer, and
I have been writing stories about the background to my photos on my website:
BackyardImage.com
My portfolio can be seen at: SteveHeap.com, and it is organized by location, so that
you quickly find the print you are looking for.
I’m Steve Heap, and I live to create images that will bring back memories of a happy
vacation or remind you of a place you used to call home!
My aim is to capture each location I visit in the best light and create a photograph,
that you would be truly proud to display in your home or office.
As a professional photographer, I have been very active in the stock photography
world with images printed in leading magazines, travel guides and international
publications. More recently, though, I have been more focused on the elusive task of
getting the perfect image of places I visit – ones that really speak to the viewer, and
I have been writing stories about the background to my photos on my website:
BackyardImage.com
My portfolio can be seen at: SteveHeap.com, and it is organized by location, so that
you quickly find the print you are looking for.
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TIA HUNT
Reedsville, WV
Horses…drawing…dislike of “Paint by Number” kits. Originally from Kelso,
Washington I loved drawing, had my own horse by age 7, well, I shared a horse
with my younger sister and having received my “Paint-by-Number” paint kit (of
a horse), decided that was not for me. The paints came out, and I painted my
own pictures. My father gave me my first Grumbacher oil paint set for
Christmas when I was seventeen, and my husband gave me my first paint box
and easel.
In Huntington Junior High School my art teacher entered my pen and ink
drawing of horses in a school art show. During 4-H my various projects
include horses, photography, cooking (where I learned cake decorating),
sewing and Junior Leadership. I had the privilege to attend various workshops
in Temecula, California instructed by William F. Powell, author of many Foster
art books and originally from Huntington. WV. Prior to moving to West Virginia,
I attended San Jacinto Community College and studied painting under John
Dingler learning techniques of masters, one of whom was Caravaggio. I had the
privilege of viewing works by Caravaggio in Vienna, Austria.
Reedsville, WV
Horses…drawing…dislike of “Paint by Number” kits. Originally from Kelso,
Washington I loved drawing, had my own horse by age 7, well, I shared a horse
with my younger sister and having received my “Paint-by-Number” paint kit (of
a horse), decided that was not for me. The paints came out, and I painted my
own pictures. My father gave me my first Grumbacher oil paint set for
Christmas when I was seventeen, and my husband gave me my first paint box
and easel.
In Huntington Junior High School my art teacher entered my pen and ink
drawing of horses in a school art show. During 4-H my various projects
include horses, photography, cooking (where I learned cake decorating),
sewing and Junior Leadership. I had the privilege to attend various workshops
in Temecula, California instructed by William F. Powell, author of many Foster
art books and originally from Huntington. WV. Prior to moving to West Virginia,
I attended San Jacinto Community College and studied painting under John
Dingler learning techniques of masters, one of whom was Caravaggio. I had the
privilege of viewing works by Caravaggio in Vienna, Austria.
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RICH LEWIS
I am 66 years old and retired from the U.S. Air Force and moved to Morgantown
in 1997, after spending 20 years as a missile systems analyst.
My wife, Sandy, and I opened Country Lane Photography in January of 1998,
offering family, children and high school senior portraits. Sandy is an autism
specialist for the county school system, and we have two children, Kelly and
Matt, and six grandchildren. Kelly is a behavior counselor for the Hanover, PA
school district, and Matt is serving in the Air Force and currently stationed in
Alaska.
I have too many hobbies, including photography (obviously) woodworking, metal
detecting, fishing and kayaking, and I hope to do more landscape and wildlife
photography in the future.
I am 66 years old and retired from the U.S. Air Force and moved to Morgantown
in 1997, after spending 20 years as a missile systems analyst.
My wife, Sandy, and I opened Country Lane Photography in January of 1998,
offering family, children and high school senior portraits. Sandy is an autism
specialist for the county school system, and we have two children, Kelly and
Matt, and six grandchildren. Kelly is a behavior counselor for the Hanover, PA
school district, and Matt is serving in the Air Force and currently stationed in
Alaska.
I have too many hobbies, including photography (obviously) woodworking, metal
detecting, fishing and kayaking, and I hope to do more landscape and wildlife
photography in the future.
JOSEPH BORYTSKY
I studied with the University of Edinburgh art professor while stationed at Kirknewton
RAF Station, Scotland. After serving with the United States Air Force, I designed and
executed visual merchandising with Kaufman’s Department Store in Uniontown,
Pennsylvania, Steubenville, Caton, and Mansfield, Ohio. I returned to Kaufman’s became
merchandising buyer.
My art background over the years consists of oils, watercolors, pastels, and
calligraphy. For the past fifteen or so years I have concentrated on my ethnic
background and found new interest in traditional and colorful Polish art. Many
immigrants brought many of their Polish customs and artistic talents with them to
America. Over the years many of these treasured pieces of Szopki (shop0key),
Wycinang (vee-chee-non-kee), paper cuts and wax drop and pull Pysanki (pee-son0kee)
decorated eggs have disappeared or have been discarded by family members
unfamiliar with these traditional arts. My goal as an artist is to create, revitalize,
and preserve these almost forgotten art forms.
My work has been exhibited in the following areas where Polish art still thrives:
I studied with the University of Edinburgh art professor while stationed at Kirknewton
RAF Station, Scotland. After serving with the United States Air Force, I designed and
executed visual merchandising with Kaufman’s Department Store in Uniontown,
Pennsylvania, Steubenville, Caton, and Mansfield, Ohio. I returned to Kaufman’s became
merchandising buyer.
My art background over the years consists of oils, watercolors, pastels, and
calligraphy. For the past fifteen or so years I have concentrated on my ethnic
background and found new interest in traditional and colorful Polish art. Many
immigrants brought many of their Polish customs and artistic talents with them to
America. Over the years many of these treasured pieces of Szopki (shop0key),
Wycinang (vee-chee-non-kee), paper cuts and wax drop and pull Pysanki (pee-son0kee)
decorated eggs have disappeared or have been discarded by family members
unfamiliar with these traditional arts. My goal as an artist is to create, revitalize,
and preserve these almost forgotten art forms.
My work has been exhibited in the following areas where Polish art still thrives:
- The Cathedral of Learning - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- The Cloister of the Frick Fine Arts Building - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Andy Warhol Museum - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- National Czech and Slovak Museum - Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- The Pope John Paul II Cultural Center - Washington, D.C.
- Student Union Building, University of Pittsburgh - Oakland Campus
GREG KULLMAN
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GRACE WIGAL
Grace Wigal has spent most of her life teaching, first as a reading specialist in
an elementary school, next as a language arts teacher and reading specialist at
the high school level, and last as a teaching professor at the West Virginia
College of Law, where she directed the Legal Reasoning, Research, and Writing
Program and the Academic Excellence Program. She retired in 2015 to focus on
her family beef farm on Cobun Creek Road and to spend more time with her
grandchildren.
Recently, the farming operation expanded to include a high tunnel greenhouse
that supplies vegetables to family, friends, and a community feeding program.
Grace also sings with the West Virginia University Community Choir and enjoys
participation in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute’s classes where she has
discovered a new hobby – painting with watercolors.
Although Grace has spent most of her life close to the earth with her farming
and gardening activities, she says that her watercolors class has taught her to
see the world through a new lens of proportion and color that has enriched her
life with new meaning.
Grace Wigal has spent most of her life teaching, first as a reading specialist in
an elementary school, next as a language arts teacher and reading specialist at
the high school level, and last as a teaching professor at the West Virginia
College of Law, where she directed the Legal Reasoning, Research, and Writing
Program and the Academic Excellence Program. She retired in 2015 to focus on
her family beef farm on Cobun Creek Road and to spend more time with her
grandchildren.
Recently, the farming operation expanded to include a high tunnel greenhouse
that supplies vegetables to family, friends, and a community feeding program.
Grace also sings with the West Virginia University Community Choir and enjoys
participation in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute’s classes where she has
discovered a new hobby – painting with watercolors.
Although Grace has spent most of her life close to the earth with her farming
and gardening activities, she says that her watercolors class has taught her to
see the world through a new lens of proportion and color that has enriched her
life with new meaning.
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CHARLOTTE SWISHER
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FRED STANSBERRY
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P.J. Bell
I have lived my life in WV. My family came to Morgantown in 1962. I went to
public school here and attended WVU for a B.S. degree in Elementary Education.
I began teaching in Arthurdale in Preston County and then in Flatts-Chestnut
Ridge, North Elementary, and finally at Suncrest Middle in Monongalia County. I
earned my M.A. degree in education. I taught grades 4, 5 and 6 for a period of 41
years.
I have always been interested in art. I have taken classes in tole-oil painting and
sketching. Through OLLI, I started taking watercolor classes from Susan Witt
and have enjoyed it; though it is a challenge! This started my involvement with
the Morgantown Art Association. I currently chair publicity and the website for
MAA.
The friendly atmosphere in The Gallery contributes to learning not only from our
instructors, but also from each other. For me painting is a stress reliever. When I
have a brush in my hand, I seem to go into a “zone”. Time stands still, and I am
often oblivious to what’s going on around me.
I have lived my life in WV. My family came to Morgantown in 1962. I went to
public school here and attended WVU for a B.S. degree in Elementary Education.
I began teaching in Arthurdale in Preston County and then in Flatts-Chestnut
Ridge, North Elementary, and finally at Suncrest Middle in Monongalia County. I
earned my M.A. degree in education. I taught grades 4, 5 and 6 for a period of 41
years.
I have always been interested in art. I have taken classes in tole-oil painting and
sketching. Through OLLI, I started taking watercolor classes from Susan Witt
and have enjoyed it; though it is a challenge! This started my involvement with
the Morgantown Art Association. I currently chair publicity and the website for
MAA.
The friendly atmosphere in The Gallery contributes to learning not only from our
instructors, but also from each other. For me painting is a stress reliever. When I
have a brush in my hand, I seem to go into a “zone”. Time stands still, and I am
often oblivious to what’s going on around me.
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THE SCHUBERTS
Dr. Karel R. Schubert: Karel Schubert grew up in West Virginia. He has always
been interested in art, architecture and anthropology. He has lived in exciting
places around the world. He attended West Virginia University majoring in
chemistry and biochemistry with minors in plant science and agriculture. After
graduation from WVU, he completed his Master’s and Doctorate in Biochemistry
and Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Plant Science at the University of Illinois
at Urbana-Champaign. He followed his post graduate work in Botany and Plant
Pathology at Oregon State University and later in Nematology at The University
of California at Davis. He was an assistant and associate professor of
biochemistry at Michigan State University, an adjunct professor in Biology at
Washington University in St. Louis and an Endowed Professor in Botany and
Microbiology at the University of Oklahoma. Prior to returning to Morgantown,
Dr. Schubert was Vice President and Member at the Danforth Plant Science
Center. After returning to West Virginia, he served as the Director of the WV Bio
Association. He has always been involved in photography with additional
interests in painting, stained glass, woodworking and design. He is a Guest
Artisan at Spruce Forest Artisan Village in Grantsville, MD and is a member of
the Morgantown Art Association serving in past years as the chair of publicity
and website. His photography has won awards in Exhibit 60, the All-Member
Show and the Photography Show, among others.
Mrs. Mary C. Schubert: Mary was born and grew up in Morgantown. After
graduating from WVU with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Master’s in
Early Childhood Education, she taught at Madison Elementary in Parkersburg for
36 years. She retired in 2007. When she connected with her childhood and
college classmate, Karel, she became interested in art and joined the
Morgantown Art Association. She has served as Recording Secretary for the
Board of the MAA and for Alpha Delta Kappa, a Teacher’s Honorary, and she
currently serves as secretary for the Board for the Spruce Forest Artisan Village.
Her artistic interests include photography, quilling, stained glass and more
recently watercolor and acrylic painting. She also enjoys knitting, traveling and
camping. Among her awards, she has won Best of Show at the Taylor County
Photography Show.
Dr. Karel R. Schubert: Karel Schubert grew up in West Virginia. He has always
been interested in art, architecture and anthropology. He has lived in exciting
places around the world. He attended West Virginia University majoring in
chemistry and biochemistry with minors in plant science and agriculture. After
graduation from WVU, he completed his Master’s and Doctorate in Biochemistry
and Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Plant Science at the University of Illinois
at Urbana-Champaign. He followed his post graduate work in Botany and Plant
Pathology at Oregon State University and later in Nematology at The University
of California at Davis. He was an assistant and associate professor of
biochemistry at Michigan State University, an adjunct professor in Biology at
Washington University in St. Louis and an Endowed Professor in Botany and
Microbiology at the University of Oklahoma. Prior to returning to Morgantown,
Dr. Schubert was Vice President and Member at the Danforth Plant Science
Center. After returning to West Virginia, he served as the Director of the WV Bio
Association. He has always been involved in photography with additional
interests in painting, stained glass, woodworking and design. He is a Guest
Artisan at Spruce Forest Artisan Village in Grantsville, MD and is a member of
the Morgantown Art Association serving in past years as the chair of publicity
and website. His photography has won awards in Exhibit 60, the All-Member
Show and the Photography Show, among others.
Mrs. Mary C. Schubert: Mary was born and grew up in Morgantown. After
graduating from WVU with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Master’s in
Early Childhood Education, she taught at Madison Elementary in Parkersburg for
36 years. She retired in 2007. When she connected with her childhood and
college classmate, Karel, she became interested in art and joined the
Morgantown Art Association. She has served as Recording Secretary for the
Board of the MAA and for Alpha Delta Kappa, a Teacher’s Honorary, and she
currently serves as secretary for the Board for the Spruce Forest Artisan Village.
Her artistic interests include photography, quilling, stained glass and more
recently watercolor and acrylic painting. She also enjoys knitting, traveling and
camping. Among her awards, she has won Best of Show at the Taylor County
Photography Show.
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EDDIE “SPAGHETTI” MAIER
www.eddiespaghettiart.com
Eddie Spaghetti Maier uses his creative talents to share Mother Nature’s
bountiful gifts of beauty. While he predominately works as a printmaker, he is
also adept in other mediums including pottery, batik, mural painting, and just
about anything art related. Eddie also loves to share his talents by teaching and
holding workshops.
He has a reverence for nature and love of the outdoors. His activities include
canoeing, camping, hiking and travel, primarily the Appalachian Mountains of
West Virginia where he calls Morgantown, WV his home.
Eddie feels blessed and grateful for his artistic talents, but his success has come
from years of hard work and dedication. He grew up feeling most connected with
clay and making pottery on the wheel. After learning woodcut printmaking while
on a study abroad in Australia, he found his calling. Even after 20 years of
making woodcuts, he still says, “I can’t stop carving. I’ve become obsessed with
the process. I love printmaking.” …and his passion shows in his work.
His decision to make art becoming his livelihood is worth mentioning. After the
death of his brother, Erich, he realized the sacred meaning of life is to live it. He
felt it was time to pursue his passion. Kathy Martinez, an artist friend from
Johnstown, PA, turned Eddie onto selling his art at music festivals and arts and
crafts fairs. He can often be found traveling with his family to places all over the
U.S.A. His wife, Talia, and children, Zealon and Zuri, also make art to be shared
and sold, while they are on the road together. He boasts, “I love seeing places
across our country. We’ve got brothers and sisters all over. That’s what makes
an artist’s life so special.”
www.eddiespaghettiart.com
Eddie Spaghetti Maier uses his creative talents to share Mother Nature’s
bountiful gifts of beauty. While he predominately works as a printmaker, he is
also adept in other mediums including pottery, batik, mural painting, and just
about anything art related. Eddie also loves to share his talents by teaching and
holding workshops.
He has a reverence for nature and love of the outdoors. His activities include
canoeing, camping, hiking and travel, primarily the Appalachian Mountains of
West Virginia where he calls Morgantown, WV his home.
Eddie feels blessed and grateful for his artistic talents, but his success has come
from years of hard work and dedication. He grew up feeling most connected with
clay and making pottery on the wheel. After learning woodcut printmaking while
on a study abroad in Australia, he found his calling. Even after 20 years of
making woodcuts, he still says, “I can’t stop carving. I’ve become obsessed with
the process. I love printmaking.” …and his passion shows in his work.
His decision to make art becoming his livelihood is worth mentioning. After the
death of his brother, Erich, he realized the sacred meaning of life is to live it. He
felt it was time to pursue his passion. Kathy Martinez, an artist friend from
Johnstown, PA, turned Eddie onto selling his art at music festivals and arts and
crafts fairs. He can often be found traveling with his family to places all over the
U.S.A. His wife, Talia, and children, Zealon and Zuri, also make art to be shared
and sold, while they are on the road together. He boasts, “I love seeing places
across our country. We’ve got brothers and sisters all over. That’s what makes
an artist’s life so special.”
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ALLYSON MCKEE
Allyson McKee is a Pasadena, Maryland girl who attended West Virginia
University where she majored in zoology. She met and married a West Virginia
young man, Clark, who was from Triadelphia, WV. After several years in
Virginia, while Clark served in the military, they returned to Morgantown
intending to stay 2 years and now 50 years later, they are still here. Along
the way they raised two children, Lisa and Sean. There are also two
grandsons and a granddaughter to round out the McKee clan.
Allyson worked for West Virginia University Libraries after receiving her
Master’s in Library Science from the University of Pittsburgh. She served as
the Department Head of Electronic Resources, Licensing and Acquisitions for
the Libraries. Upon retirement from WVU Libraries after 43 years, she
needed a project and a new challenge. She started attending Susan Witt’s
watercolor classes.
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TOM HARMAN
Tom Harman MD is a retired OB/Gyn who creates beautiful useful ceramic objects.
For over thirty years he delivered babies and helped women with reproductive health
problems in Morgantown WV, but he’s not the typical surgeon.
Tom grew up in northern Ohio in a small manufacturing town. He excelled in school,
but was a mischievous youngster, frequently in trouble with teachers and parents.
The youngest of three boys,
he loved fishing, music and playing cards. As a tuba major at OSU, he was the first in
his extended family to attend college, but that didn’t last long. Deeply religious and
patriotic, he was shocked into political activism by the Vietnam War and took to the
streets to protest his country’s aggression. To his conservative family’s horror, he
dropped out of college and began working with the American Friends Service
Committee as an anti-war draft counselor. Prepared to go to prison for his beliefs
he even destroyed his own draft card, but he didn’t burn it. He ate it!
It was during this time that he became part of an organization called Peacemakers
and it was through this group that he met his wife of 45 years, nurse-midwife and
author, Patricia Harman. In 1974, Tom and Patsy, as part of a community of
peacemakers, helped established a rural commune in Spencer WV. There, they
attempted to live a simple, self-sufficient non-violent life, devoted to the principals
of Mahatma Gandhi. As the War in Vietnam wound down, most of the members of the
commune returned to college and moved away. Tom and Patsy, now parents of three
of their own boys, still felt called to do something to make the world better. They
had already had two babies at home with midwives and eventually decided to devote
their lives to the medical field, helping families have gentle respectful births in the
hospital. It was during medical school at Ohio State University, that Tom discovered he
had a gift for surgery and developed an interest in women’s pelvic pain. This later
became his specialty and he worked with Patsy at WVU medical center and later in his
own private practice, Partners in Women’s Healthcare at Mon General Hospital.
During this time, he began to take classes in ceramics and developed his own home
studio. In 2018, when he retired, he began to sell and show his own work. In addition to
making beautiful useful, cups, platters, bowls and vases, he enjoys growing micro-
greens under grow lights in his basement and tending his large vegetable garden. He
swims daily in the lake near his home and travels to the Dominican Republic to do
surgical service missions.
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HOLLY NICHOLSON
I worked as a school counselor for 27 years, and I loved working with
children and their imaginations. I think this was where I used my creativity the
most in teaching and creating games to help students share their feelings.
After I retired, I worked as a realtor for a few years until I felt I could
“really retire” and create a life full of art and nature.
I started mosaic classes with Debbie Palmer at the Senior Citizens Center in
Wiles Hill. She taught me a great deal, and I started working on projects at
home. I was also experimenting with alcohol inks at the time and found them
fun to play with.
I began Susan Witt’s watercolor classes about three years ago and loved
every class! She teaches from her many years of experience and gives you
loads of tips to make it seem easy. She is a positive encouraging teacher. I
was only able to go to summer classes, as I go away in the winter, but each
class taught me so much!
I always thought watercolor was the hardest medium to master, but if you “go
with the flow”, it can be a wonderful way to create beauty.
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SUSAN DOTSON
Having been born and raised in Murrysville, PA, I left the Keystone State to attend
West Virginia Wesleyan College, coming to realize that you are either born a
Mountaineer, or you get here as soon as you can. After graduation, my husband, Lyn,
and I spent a year living in Washington, DC, before returning to West Virginia and
Morgantown where he attended law school and I pursued a master’s degree in
journalism. Although we had planned to leave Morgantown when we graduated, we
found jobs here and stayed. Eventually we realized it was home and we’ve lived here
ever since.
Our children, Meredith and Ben, were born in Morgantown and both attended WVU. Now
Meredith lives in Avon, OH, outside Cleveland, with her husband Cole; Ben and his wife,
Kelly, live in Houston, TX. I spent my career in human resources, working for several
large corporations including Consol and Northrup Grumman. In 2015 I retired from
Mylan where I has managed employee leave.
I taught myself to knit when I was about 12 and have dabbled in lots of crafts since
then. I’ve done tole painting with acrylics, knitting, counted cross stitch, and
scrapbooking. After my retirement, I began to work in watercolors, which I have
found to be very challenging, but also rewarding. I joined the Morgantown Art
Association and have enjoyed the friends I have made through the group. Besides Susan
Witt’s watercolor classes, I’ve participated in workshops with Sterling Edwards, Lynn
Lysick and with various instructors at the WV Botanic Garden.
Besides painting, I enjoy gardening and reading. I’m involved with my church, Suncrest
UMC, and currently serve as president of the Service League of Morgantown.
Having been born and raised in Murrysville, PA, I left the Keystone State to attend
West Virginia Wesleyan College, coming to realize that you are either born a
Mountaineer, or you get here as soon as you can. After graduation, my husband, Lyn,
and I spent a year living in Washington, DC, before returning to West Virginia and
Morgantown where he attended law school and I pursued a master’s degree in
journalism. Although we had planned to leave Morgantown when we graduated, we
found jobs here and stayed. Eventually we realized it was home and we’ve lived here
ever since.
Our children, Meredith and Ben, were born in Morgantown and both attended WVU. Now
Meredith lives in Avon, OH, outside Cleveland, with her husband Cole; Ben and his wife,
Kelly, live in Houston, TX. I spent my career in human resources, working for several
large corporations including Consol and Northrup Grumman. In 2015 I retired from
Mylan where I has managed employee leave.
I taught myself to knit when I was about 12 and have dabbled in lots of crafts since
then. I’ve done tole painting with acrylics, knitting, counted cross stitch, and
scrapbooking. After my retirement, I began to work in watercolors, which I have
found to be very challenging, but also rewarding. I joined the Morgantown Art
Association and have enjoyed the friends I have made through the group. Besides Susan
Witt’s watercolor classes, I’ve participated in workshops with Sterling Edwards, Lynn
Lysick and with various instructors at the WV Botanic Garden.
Besides painting, I enjoy gardening and reading. I’m involved with my church, Suncrest
UMC, and currently serve as president of the Service League of Morgantown.
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AVA GAA-OJEDA KESSLER
Ava Gaa-Ojeda Kessler attended the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, where she earned
a B.S. (1978) and M.S. (1983) in biology on the reproductive biology, ecology, behavior, and feeding
habits of Sphaerodactylus townsendi and S. macrolepis lizards. Afterward, she did further studies in
biology at the City University of New York and Museum of Natural History. She previously worked
for the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Terrestrial Ecology
Section, as a Field Biologist and studied the status of the endangered Culebra Island Giant Anole lizard
(Anolis roosevelti). Later, she was cross-trained in human in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer at
the infertility laboratories of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. She subsequently returned
to Puerto Rico where she worked as a human embryologist and andrologist, helping to produce the
first set of IVF/ET twins in Puerto Rico. Ava last worked for the Albemarle County Public School
system as a substitute teacher and also periodically delivered outreach educational programs on
herpetofauna and other areas of science to school children. After rearing two sons with her
husband, Matt, a veterinarian, she discovered a passion for watercolor painting while attending an art
class through West Virginia University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the Morgantown Art
League with Susan Witt.
Ava Gaa-Ojeda Kessler attended the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, where she earned
a B.S. (1978) and M.S. (1983) in biology on the reproductive biology, ecology, behavior, and feeding
habits of Sphaerodactylus townsendi and S. macrolepis lizards. Afterward, she did further studies in
biology at the City University of New York and Museum of Natural History. She previously worked
for the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Terrestrial Ecology
Section, as a Field Biologist and studied the status of the endangered Culebra Island Giant Anole lizard
(Anolis roosevelti). Later, she was cross-trained in human in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer at
the infertility laboratories of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. She subsequently returned
to Puerto Rico where she worked as a human embryologist and andrologist, helping to produce the
first set of IVF/ET twins in Puerto Rico. Ava last worked for the Albemarle County Public School
system as a substitute teacher and also periodically delivered outreach educational programs on
herpetofauna and other areas of science to school children. After rearing two sons with her
husband, Matt, a veterinarian, she discovered a passion for watercolor painting while attending an art
class through West Virginia University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the Morgantown Art
League with Susan Witt.
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KATHLEEN KRIZNER
I grew up in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, but I’ve spent my adult life in North
Central West Virginia. I hold a nursing degree from Presbyterian University
Hospital and a Masters in Technical Education from Marshal University. After
a long career in nursing and teaching, I retired to find myself wondering what
to do with all my free time. My answer came from a sign advertising drawing
lessons. That was the beginning of my painting adventure.
Drawing lessons lead to watercolor classes and a whole world of exciting
discoveries. My primary focus is watercolor, but I’ve dabbled in other media
such as acrylics and alcohol inks. I’ve even tried my hand at jewelry making.
For the past several years I’ve attended classes and workshops at the
Morgantown Art Association with a group of likeminded artists and friends.
My art work has merited me recognition in the art community and several
awards, for which I am very proud. Painting is the creative outlet I can enjoy
well into the future.
I grew up in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, but I’ve spent my adult life in North
Central West Virginia. I hold a nursing degree from Presbyterian University
Hospital and a Masters in Technical Education from Marshal University. After
a long career in nursing and teaching, I retired to find myself wondering what
to do with all my free time. My answer came from a sign advertising drawing
lessons. That was the beginning of my painting adventure.
Drawing lessons lead to watercolor classes and a whole world of exciting
discoveries. My primary focus is watercolor, but I’ve dabbled in other media
such as acrylics and alcohol inks. I’ve even tried my hand at jewelry making.
For the past several years I’ve attended classes and workshops at the
Morgantown Art Association with a group of likeminded artists and friends.
My art work has merited me recognition in the art community and several
awards, for which I am very proud. Painting is the creative outlet I can enjoy
well into the future.
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SANDY CROSS SMITH
I am a native West Virginian and have lived most of my life in Morgantown.
However, I was born in Weston and lived in several small towns while growing
up. I graduated from Parkersburg High School. My college education was
obtained at West Virginia University where I majored in Art and English
Education. My teaching career spanned a period of 32 years in the
elementary schools of Preston County and Monongalia County. I was a
traveling Art teacher in several Preston County schools, but most of my
teaching career was devoted to the regular elementary classrooms. I was
able to use art across the curriculum to teach and enrich student learning
with a variety of hands on projects such as Paper Mache world globes,
erupting volcanoes, and wildlife murals. Art has been an important part of my
personal life, as I have experimented and devoted a lot of time to several
mediums such as oil and acrylic painting, fabric arts, quilting and sewing as well
as knitting. It has been a new adventure for me to delve into the world of
watercolor. Currently I am attending watercolor classes taught by Susan Witt
which are offered through the Morgantown Art Association. I am a fairly new
member of the Morgantown Art Association but was able to attend a Lynn
Ferris workshop last fall. Hopefully I can attend more workshops in the
future.
I believe I am a very fortunate person to be blessed with a husband who
encourages me to paint and practice my artistic efforts. My two sons and
their wives, as well as my five grandchildren, appreciate and support my
efforts as well. I am lucky to live in the beautiful state of WV which is a
constant inspiration for artistic expression.
I am a native West Virginian and have lived most of my life in Morgantown.
However, I was born in Weston and lived in several small towns while growing
up. I graduated from Parkersburg High School. My college education was
obtained at West Virginia University where I majored in Art and English
Education. My teaching career spanned a period of 32 years in the
elementary schools of Preston County and Monongalia County. I was a
traveling Art teacher in several Preston County schools, but most of my
teaching career was devoted to the regular elementary classrooms. I was
able to use art across the curriculum to teach and enrich student learning
with a variety of hands on projects such as Paper Mache world globes,
erupting volcanoes, and wildlife murals. Art has been an important part of my
personal life, as I have experimented and devoted a lot of time to several
mediums such as oil and acrylic painting, fabric arts, quilting and sewing as well
as knitting. It has been a new adventure for me to delve into the world of
watercolor. Currently I am attending watercolor classes taught by Susan Witt
which are offered through the Morgantown Art Association. I am a fairly new
member of the Morgantown Art Association but was able to attend a Lynn
Ferris workshop last fall. Hopefully I can attend more workshops in the
future.
I believe I am a very fortunate person to be blessed with a husband who
encourages me to paint and practice my artistic efforts. My two sons and
their wives, as well as my five grandchildren, appreciate and support my
efforts as well. I am lucky to live in the beautiful state of WV which is a
constant inspiration for artistic expression.
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NANCY BIGGS
Biggs.n@gmail.com
My current work reflects my enjoyment in exploring and discovering what
color does as it joins another color, side by side or entwining, on paper, fiber
or other materials, controlled or spontaneous.
Each of my works, other than greeting cards, is one of a kind. The themes
arise in my own mind, the interpretation evolves, as I explore or develop a way
to see where it leads me. All is searching. All exists only once.
Ever since childhood, interpreting my view of things has come as naturally as
breathing. Over the years it has been expressed in many ways – through
designing and making clothing and accessories in batik, through experiments in
clay, through designing and knitting hand-spun sweaters, through interest in
antique sewing machines and quilting in both traditional and modern art quilt
styles.
I base my philosophy on a little card given to me years ago at an arts festival…
In the entire history of the universe
Past…Present…Future
You are the only You
There will ever be.
No other living being can share
What you have been given to share.
Biggs.n@gmail.com
My current work reflects my enjoyment in exploring and discovering what
color does as it joins another color, side by side or entwining, on paper, fiber
or other materials, controlled or spontaneous.
Each of my works, other than greeting cards, is one of a kind. The themes
arise in my own mind, the interpretation evolves, as I explore or develop a way
to see where it leads me. All is searching. All exists only once.
Ever since childhood, interpreting my view of things has come as naturally as
breathing. Over the years it has been expressed in many ways – through
designing and making clothing and accessories in batik, through experiments in
clay, through designing and knitting hand-spun sweaters, through interest in
antique sewing machines and quilting in both traditional and modern art quilt
styles.
I base my philosophy on a little card given to me years ago at an arts festival…
In the entire history of the universe
Past…Present…Future
You are the only You
There will ever be.
No other living being can share
What you have been given to share.
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JOHN MOON
My name is John Moon. I live in Masontown, West Virginia with my wife, Virginia.
I have three adult children. For thirty-five years I worked in coal mines as a
mechanic.
My interest in art began in high school where I took auto body repair training
and learned airbrush painting techniques. I began to custom paint motorcycle
gas tanks as a lifelong hobby. I also learned about woodworking and have built
custom cabinets for my own kitchen, and bunk beds for my grandsons.
Currently, I specialize in making hardwood trim molding for homes.
After retiring from my work in the mines about three years ago, I began
watercolor classes with Susan Witt at the Morgantown Art Association
Gallery. I enjoy painting flowers and foliage.
My name is John Moon. I live in Masontown, West Virginia with my wife, Virginia.
I have three adult children. For thirty-five years I worked in coal mines as a
mechanic.
My interest in art began in high school where I took auto body repair training
and learned airbrush painting techniques. I began to custom paint motorcycle
gas tanks as a lifelong hobby. I also learned about woodworking and have built
custom cabinets for my own kitchen, and bunk beds for my grandsons.
Currently, I specialize in making hardwood trim molding for homes.
After retiring from my work in the mines about three years ago, I began
watercolor classes with Susan Witt at the Morgantown Art Association
Gallery. I enjoy painting flowers and foliage.
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ISABEL HERNANDEZ
Isabel Hernandez was born in Tenerife, Islas Canarias and raised in Venezuela
where she lived and worked as an English teacher for many years. In 2002
Isabel arrived in Morgantown with her two sons to get a M.A. in Technology
Education at WVU. Here she started working as a Spanish teacher in Preston
and Monongalia Counties until she retired in 2016. Then she could finally devote
more time to what she wanted to do all her life: to paint with watercolors.
Isabel is a self-taught artist. In 2016 she joined Morgantown Art Association
where she has been taking classes with Susan Witt. She has attended a
workshop with Robin Poteet and some online classes. Isabel has also viewed
many videos, so she can learn from popular watercolorists like Karlyn Holman,
Rick Surowicz, and many others.
The artist loves nature and the outdoors: therefore, her work focuses on
florals, animals, and landscapes. From a very early age, Isabel showed a big
interest in drawing, painting, and creating things, but life took her on a
different direction until now, when she can express her art through color and
creativity.
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BECKY TURTON
I was introduced to art in eighth grade and have always loved creating things.
My mother was very artistic. She was always painting, sewing, knitting, making
doll houses and furniture. I have been sewing and making clothing since I was
eight years old. I love knitting such things as sweaters, shawls, scarves, socks,
etc.
I began doing rubber stamping and making cards about fifteen years ago. I
love working with alcohol inks and many, many other products for
backgrounds for my cards. Attend Stampaway convention in Cincinnati every
August with my “bestie”, Carolyn, and take classes and shop at the many
vendors who participate!
I began taking watercolor classes from Susan Witt about five years ago and
joined Morgantown Art Association at that time. I have taken several
workshops at MAA to improve my skills and have presented at a couple of
the Kappa Tau sessions at the Gallery.
We love to travel and have done quite a bit of international traveling especially
to the UK as my husband, Richard, grew up in London, and we have spent a lot
of time visiting family in England and Wales. Gallery browsing is one of my
favorite things to do in London.
I’m married to Richard Turton, who is Chair of Chemical and Biomedical
Engineering at WVU, and who always encourages me to have fun and enjoy my
many “hobbies”. We live in Lakeside Village where our two cats, Bella and Lola,
allow us to share their abode.
BECKY TURTON
- Born in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Moved to West Virginia at age seven. Grew up in Keyser, West Virginia.
- Graduated from Potomac State College in 1971 and moved to Morgantown where I began working for Stone and Stone.
- Partially retired five years ago as a Paralegal working at Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC.
I was introduced to art in eighth grade and have always loved creating things.
My mother was very artistic. She was always painting, sewing, knitting, making
doll houses and furniture. I have been sewing and making clothing since I was
eight years old. I love knitting such things as sweaters, shawls, scarves, socks,
etc.
I began doing rubber stamping and making cards about fifteen years ago. I
love working with alcohol inks and many, many other products for
backgrounds for my cards. Attend Stampaway convention in Cincinnati every
August with my “bestie”, Carolyn, and take classes and shop at the many
vendors who participate!
I began taking watercolor classes from Susan Witt about five years ago and
joined Morgantown Art Association at that time. I have taken several
workshops at MAA to improve my skills and have presented at a couple of
the Kappa Tau sessions at the Gallery.
We love to travel and have done quite a bit of international traveling especially
to the UK as my husband, Richard, grew up in London, and we have spent a lot
of time visiting family in England and Wales. Gallery browsing is one of my
favorite things to do in London.
I’m married to Richard Turton, who is Chair of Chemical and Biomedical
Engineering at WVU, and who always encourages me to have fun and enjoy my
many “hobbies”. We live in Lakeside Village where our two cats, Bella and Lola,
allow us to share their abode.
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SARA JANE GAINOR
Sara Jane started painting in her 50’s and has been painting ever since. Her
first media was acrylics, but she has been painting in oils for several years.
Recently she has started using watercolors.
She has exhibited her work at MAA and recently placed third in a juried show.
Her paintings have also been displayed at the Monongalia County Courthouse
and Slight Indulgence.
Sara Jane retired from the Cancer Institute at West Virginia University where
she served for the last ten years as Director of Bonnie’s Bus. She lives in
Morgantown and enjoys time with her family including two daughters and three
grandchildren.
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D. BYRON WITT
I am a Morgantown resident, born and raised in Calhoun Co., WV. I came to
Morgantown to go to school and have lived here since graduating from WVU.
I am retired from Mylan Pharmaceutical, after thirty-eight years, where I was
a Global VP of Quality.
I have always been interested in photography, but since my retirement, I have
really become involved in the artistic end of it. Before that, I was more
interested in taking family pictures. I have been involved with MAA for several
years and have come to appreciate that photography is truly an art form.
My main interests are taking landscapes, waterfalls, and flowers. I also really
enjoy taking action sports shots of my grandsons, Logan and Brady. I also
belong to the Morgantown Photography Club.
Artist statement – “I enjoy capturing the beauty of nature.”
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SANDY CROSS SMITH
I am a native West Virginian and have lived most of my life in Morgantown.
However, I was born in Weston and lived in several small towns while growing
up. I graduated from Parkersburg High School. My college education was
obtained at West Virginia University where I majored in Art and English
Education. My teaching career spanned a period of 32 years in the
elementary schools of Preston County and Monongalia County. I was a
traveling Art teacher in several Preston County schools, but most of my
teaching career was devoted to the regular elementary classrooms. I was
able to use art across the curriculum to teach and enrich student learning
with a variety of hands on projects such as paper mache world globes,
erupting volcanoes, and wildlife murals.
Art has been an important part of my personal life, as I have experimented
and devoted a lot of time to several mediums such as oil and acrylic painting,
fabric arts, quilting and sewing as well as knitting. It has been a new
adventure for me to delve into the world of watercolor. Currently I am
attending watercolor classes taught by Susan Witt which are offered through
the Morgantown Art Association. I am a fairly new member of the
Morgantown Art Association but was able to attend a Lynn Ferris workshop
last fall. Hopefully I can attend more workshops in the future.
I believe I am a very fortunate person to be blessed with a husband who
encourages me to paint and practice my artistic efforts. My two sons and
their wives, as well as my five grandchildren, appreciate and support my
efforts as well. I am lucky to live in the beautiful state of WV which is a
constant inspiration for artistic expression.
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SUE CRIST
* Morgantown, WV, native
* West Virginia University— BFA (Graphic Design, 1977) and MA (Counseling, 1997)
* Graphic designer at WVU for 30 years; retired in 2014
* Began watercolor painting and became a Morgantown Art Association
member in 2016.
My mother Doris Kelly was a founding member of the Morgantown Art
Association (MAA) and an active artist until she passed in 2013. My plan was to
have her teach me to paint when I retired. The timing wasn’t to be, but I
inherited all of her art materials, including a palette full of watercolor paint.
With MAA Instructor Susan Witt’s guidance, I have discovered the magic of
watercolor. It gives me great joy to use my Mother’s paints with a few new
“quacky” colors added to the palette.
* Morgantown, WV, native
* West Virginia University— BFA (Graphic Design, 1977) and MA (Counseling, 1997)
* Graphic designer at WVU for 30 years; retired in 2014
* Began watercolor painting and became a Morgantown Art Association
member in 2016.
My mother Doris Kelly was a founding member of the Morgantown Art
Association (MAA) and an active artist until she passed in 2013. My plan was to
have her teach me to paint when I retired. The timing wasn’t to be, but I
inherited all of her art materials, including a palette full of watercolor paint.
With MAA Instructor Susan Witt’s guidance, I have discovered the magic of
watercolor. It gives me great joy to use my Mother’s paints with a few new
“quacky” colors added to the palette.
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TIA HUNT
Reedsville, WV
Horses…drawing…dislike of “Paint by Number” kits. Originally from Kelso,
Washington I loved drawing, had my own horse by age 7, well, I shared a horse
with my younger sister and having received my “Paint-by-Number” paint kit (of
a horse), decided that was not for me. The paints came out, and I painted my
own pictures. My father gave me my first Grumbacher oil paint set for
Christmas when I was seventeen, and my husband gave me my first paint box
and easel.
In Huntington Junior High School my art teacher entered my pen and ink
drawing of horses in a school art show. During 4-H my various projects
include horses, photography, cooking (where I learned cake decorating),
sewing and Junior Leadership. I had the privilege to attend various workshops
in Temecula, California instructed by William F. Powell, author of many Foster
art books and originally from Huntington. WV. Prior to moving to West Virginia,
I attended San Jacinto Community College and studied painting under John
Dingler learning techniques of masters, one of whom was Caravaggio. I had the
privilege of viewing works by Caravaggio in Vienna, Austria. Drawing and design
classes were instructed by Ms. Rodriquez, who included one of my design
projects, “Prague” in the Spring Student Art Show. I also learned the art of
painting porcelain dolls from Kay (a former artist with Franklin Mint, in Lake
Elsinore, CA), basket weaving in Temecula, CA, as well as at Prickett’s Fort,
WV.
After moving to West Virginia with my husband and daughter, I attended
watercolor and oil painting classes at MTEC. After joining the Morgantown Art
Association, my art education has changed from oil painting to watercolor
under the tutelage of Susan Witt, a workshop with Robin Poteet, a Plein Air oil
painting workshop with T.M. Nichols, a basket weaving workshop and various
interesting Kappa Tau education events.
The mountains and scenery in West Virginia are as awe inspiring as the
mountains of Washington state, lending themselves to hours of drawing and
painting pleasure. I enjoy traveling with my husband, watching my grandsons
with their school, sports (hockey and baseball) and now horseback riding
endeavors. I enjoy my two wonderful daughters with their life journeys. Visits
to museums afford the pleasure of viewing inspiring works of art by well-
known artists and discovering the unknown.
Reedsville, WV
Horses…drawing…dislike of “Paint by Number” kits. Originally from Kelso,
Washington I loved drawing, had my own horse by age 7, well, I shared a horse
with my younger sister and having received my “Paint-by-Number” paint kit (of
a horse), decided that was not for me. The paints came out, and I painted my
own pictures. My father gave me my first Grumbacher oil paint set for
Christmas when I was seventeen, and my husband gave me my first paint box
and easel.
In Huntington Junior High School my art teacher entered my pen and ink
drawing of horses in a school art show. During 4-H my various projects
include horses, photography, cooking (where I learned cake decorating),
sewing and Junior Leadership. I had the privilege to attend various workshops
in Temecula, California instructed by William F. Powell, author of many Foster
art books and originally from Huntington. WV. Prior to moving to West Virginia,
I attended San Jacinto Community College and studied painting under John
Dingler learning techniques of masters, one of whom was Caravaggio. I had the
privilege of viewing works by Caravaggio in Vienna, Austria. Drawing and design
classes were instructed by Ms. Rodriquez, who included one of my design
projects, “Prague” in the Spring Student Art Show. I also learned the art of
painting porcelain dolls from Kay (a former artist with Franklin Mint, in Lake
Elsinore, CA), basket weaving in Temecula, CA, as well as at Prickett’s Fort,
WV.
After moving to West Virginia with my husband and daughter, I attended
watercolor and oil painting classes at MTEC. After joining the Morgantown Art
Association, my art education has changed from oil painting to watercolor
under the tutelage of Susan Witt, a workshop with Robin Poteet, a Plein Air oil
painting workshop with T.M. Nichols, a basket weaving workshop and various
interesting Kappa Tau education events.
The mountains and scenery in West Virginia are as awe inspiring as the
mountains of Washington state, lending themselves to hours of drawing and
painting pleasure. I enjoy traveling with my husband, watching my grandsons
with their school, sports (hockey and baseball) and now horseback riding
endeavors. I enjoy my two wonderful daughters with their life journeys. Visits
to museums afford the pleasure of viewing inspiring works of art by well-
known artists and discovering the unknown.
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SALLY H. DIGMAN
Sally grew up in Silver Spring, MD, near Washington, D.C. As a young child, she
enjoyed coloring and making designs, but became discouraged at an early age
by an elementary teacher, who took her exquisite drawing of the Maryland
state tree, the mighty oak, and using a red pen, circled her creatively included
squirrel hole and wrote, “What’s That?” This didn’t keep Sally from competing
in neighborhood coloring contests, judged by various available mothers.
Sally did take advantage of the opportunities that D.C. offered to a young
person interested in art. While skipping school, she occasionally left her truant
friends behind and road her bike down Rock Creek Parkway to the National
Art Gallery. In addition, she had plenty of time to make many designs and
drawings, due to being regularly grounded and restricted to her room during
most of her junior high and early high school years. Her walls were full.
In a last-ditch attempt to find some activity to keep her out of trouble, Sally’s
parents asked if she might want to take some painting lessons. Skeptical, but
somewhat interested, Sally decided to give that a try. Mrs. Glen Hill, a truly
exceptional portrait artist in the D.C. area, decided (Sally suspects bribery, or
pity for her parents) to let Sally join her Saturday group of young woman
artists, and put a paintbrush in her hand. Sally came to enjoy the intensity and
camaraderie of the other painters, and soon began learning the secrets of
turning canvas into color. She never skipped painting class.
In a further attempt to keep Sally out of delinquency and in school, Sally was
placed into three art classes during her senior year by her beloved guidance
counselor, Mr. Rowsie. They were close friends by this time, as you might
imagine. She got to paint and paint and paint. One art teacher, Mrs. Davila, let
Sally go outside and draw; quite a risk on her part, but Sally usually came
back. Another art teacher, Ms. Briskman, eventually laid out a challenge to
Sally to paint something that was completely abstract, but Sally could never do
it without it turning into something realistic. (Still working on that.)
Astonishingly, Sally won some nice prizes for her work.
After high school there was no time for art. College, marriage, teaching,
children, graduate school, and work as a faculty member and administrator at
several area colleges and universities (Alderson-Broaddus College, West Virginia
University, Salem International University, Fairmont State University), left little
time and energy for painting…
…until she met Jane Cardi, 35 years after high school, who got Sally into her
painting class with instructor, Jeanette Campbell. The fabulous ladies of
Wednesday evening art class, still paint together and learn together at the
Morgantown Art Association Gallery. Come join us!
Sally grew up in Silver Spring, MD, near Washington, D.C. As a young child, she
enjoyed coloring and making designs, but became discouraged at an early age
by an elementary teacher, who took her exquisite drawing of the Maryland
state tree, the mighty oak, and using a red pen, circled her creatively included
squirrel hole and wrote, “What’s That?” This didn’t keep Sally from competing
in neighborhood coloring contests, judged by various available mothers.
Sally did take advantage of the opportunities that D.C. offered to a young
person interested in art. While skipping school, she occasionally left her truant
friends behind and road her bike down Rock Creek Parkway to the National
Art Gallery. In addition, she had plenty of time to make many designs and
drawings, due to being regularly grounded and restricted to her room during
most of her junior high and early high school years. Her walls were full.
In a last-ditch attempt to find some activity to keep her out of trouble, Sally’s
parents asked if she might want to take some painting lessons. Skeptical, but
somewhat interested, Sally decided to give that a try. Mrs. Glen Hill, a truly
exceptional portrait artist in the D.C. area, decided (Sally suspects bribery, or
pity for her parents) to let Sally join her Saturday group of young woman
artists, and put a paintbrush in her hand. Sally came to enjoy the intensity and
camaraderie of the other painters, and soon began learning the secrets of
turning canvas into color. She never skipped painting class.
In a further attempt to keep Sally out of delinquency and in school, Sally was
placed into three art classes during her senior year by her beloved guidance
counselor, Mr. Rowsie. They were close friends by this time, as you might
imagine. She got to paint and paint and paint. One art teacher, Mrs. Davila, let
Sally go outside and draw; quite a risk on her part, but Sally usually came
back. Another art teacher, Ms. Briskman, eventually laid out a challenge to
Sally to paint something that was completely abstract, but Sally could never do
it without it turning into something realistic. (Still working on that.)
Astonishingly, Sally won some nice prizes for her work.
After high school there was no time for art. College, marriage, teaching,
children, graduate school, and work as a faculty member and administrator at
several area colleges and universities (Alderson-Broaddus College, West Virginia
University, Salem International University, Fairmont State University), left little
time and energy for painting…
…until she met Jane Cardi, 35 years after high school, who got Sally into her
painting class with instructor, Jeanette Campbell. The fabulous ladies of
Wednesday evening art class, still paint together and learn together at the
Morgantown Art Association Gallery. Come join us!
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MYUNG RYOU
Myung Ryou lives in Morgantown, West Virginia and has been painting
watercolors and oils since 2013 at the Morgantown Art Gallery. She takes
classes and workshops with Susan Witt, Sharon Hildebrand, nationally renowned
artists such as Karlyn Holman, Frank Webb, Daniel David, Lynn Ferris, Laurie
Goldstein-Warren, William Vrscak and others. She is also a Tamarack Artist
and a Juried member of the West Virginia Watercolor Society.
Loving art is quite an accident for her. She has been making pottery for
many years and wanting to paint on her potteries. She found the right place,
which is the Morgantown Art Association. Now she loves both painting and
making pottery. She believes that life is a learning process and enjoys
expressing God-given talent.
She has two sons who are graduate students and wants to focus on her
studying and painting.
Myung Ryou lives in Morgantown, West Virginia and has been painting
watercolors and oils since 2013 at the Morgantown Art Gallery. She takes
classes and workshops with Susan Witt, Sharon Hildebrand, nationally renowned
artists such as Karlyn Holman, Frank Webb, Daniel David, Lynn Ferris, Laurie
Goldstein-Warren, William Vrscak and others. She is also a Tamarack Artist
and a Juried member of the West Virginia Watercolor Society.
Loving art is quite an accident for her. She has been making pottery for
many years and wanting to paint on her potteries. She found the right place,
which is the Morgantown Art Association. Now she loves both painting and
making pottery. She believes that life is a learning process and enjoys
expressing God-given talent.
She has two sons who are graduate students and wants to focus on her
studying and painting.
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FRANCOISE DEBEIR STAUBER
I was born and grew up in Africa in what was then called the Belgium Congo
but lived most of my life in Ruanda Burundi. In 1958, I moved to Belgium. In 1969,
I met my future husband in Belgium and came to the United States in 1970. We
lived in New Jersey for a couple of years, then Iowa for a few more,
before coming to Morgantown in 1979. West Virginia has been my home ever
since.
I obtained a law degree at the University of Iowa, worked for a law firm
there until we moved to Morgantown. In West Virginia, I became a solo
practitioner before being hired by West Virginia University Health Sciences
Center (HSC) as a risk manager. I worked as a risk manager for HSC for
several years and moved to the Cancer Center to oversee the education
program for the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening program. The latter
job, which I loved, gave me the opportunity to travel extensively throughout
West Virginia and to work with varied organizations statewide.
I am a self-taught artist. I have always loved to draw but never pursued my
interest in art until I came to West Virginia. Over the years, I took classes
locally and workshops with several renowned artists, such as Jeanne Dobie,
Peter Spataro, Fred Graff, Marilyn Phillys, Bill Vrsack, Pat Dews and others.
My local mentor and friend was Peggy Issac, who joined me on many artistic
adventures including a painting trip to France. She enthusiastically guided my
watercolor training.
Today, I use a variety of media (watercolor, charcoal, pen and ink, collages,
prints, clay, acrylics). Sometimes I mix different media because I like to
experiment. Today, I work almost exclusively in acrylics. My works vary from
realism (landscapes, portraits) to abstract and other imaginary works.
I was born and grew up in Africa in what was then called the Belgium Congo
but lived most of my life in Ruanda Burundi. In 1958, I moved to Belgium. In 1969,
I met my future husband in Belgium and came to the United States in 1970. We
lived in New Jersey for a couple of years, then Iowa for a few more,
before coming to Morgantown in 1979. West Virginia has been my home ever
since.
I obtained a law degree at the University of Iowa, worked for a law firm
there until we moved to Morgantown. In West Virginia, I became a solo
practitioner before being hired by West Virginia University Health Sciences
Center (HSC) as a risk manager. I worked as a risk manager for HSC for
several years and moved to the Cancer Center to oversee the education
program for the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening program. The latter
job, which I loved, gave me the opportunity to travel extensively throughout
West Virginia and to work with varied organizations statewide.
I am a self-taught artist. I have always loved to draw but never pursued my
interest in art until I came to West Virginia. Over the years, I took classes
locally and workshops with several renowned artists, such as Jeanne Dobie,
Peter Spataro, Fred Graff, Marilyn Phillys, Bill Vrsack, Pat Dews and others.
My local mentor and friend was Peggy Issac, who joined me on many artistic
adventures including a painting trip to France. She enthusiastically guided my
watercolor training.
Today, I use a variety of media (watercolor, charcoal, pen and ink, collages,
prints, clay, acrylics). Sometimes I mix different media because I like to
experiment. Today, I work almost exclusively in acrylics. My works vary from
realism (landscapes, portraits) to abstract and other imaginary works.
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POLLY JOHNSON
Polly Johnson is a retired elementary school teacher of Monongalia County.
She grew up overseas in North Africa as a “missionary kid”. Her schooling, up
until 9th grade, was entirely in French. Polly is a mother of three terrific
adults and is excitedly expecting being a grandma for the first time this
summer.
As a child, she loved drawing and working with various art mediums. In school.
Art class was her favorite subject. In college she painted with oils and
considered majoring in art but ended up getting an elementary teaching degree
followed by a Master’s in Special Education. After graduating and throughout
her teaching career she sporadically continued to paint mostly in oils. Her
grandmother, a self-taught oil painter, inspired Polly. Her mother, Lila Rae, a
potter, also had many artistic inclinations that rubbed off on her.
Enjoyable times as a teacher were doing art projects with her students. She
joined Etsy; where she sells jewelry, boxes, cards and paintings under
“Pollyware”. (Etsy.com is the website where you can browse for all sorts of
arts and crafts.) After retiring several years ago, she joined MAA and
took watercolor classes from a gifted teacher, Susan Witt. It has been lots
of fun! Polly also participated in several enjoyable workshops led by artists
such as Karlyn Holman and Robin Poteet; where she learned so much. Lately
Polly’s artwork has been influenced by the chickens she acquired and now
raises since retiring. She is also interested in natural health & wellness and
became a certified Essential Oils coach making soaps, creams and EO blends
for various ailments.
Constantly amazed by the beauty of God’s creation, she finds her ambition to
replicate it in artwork. Polly finds much enjoyment in painting, creating and
living as close to the way God intended as possible
Polly Johnson is a retired elementary school teacher of Monongalia County.
She grew up overseas in North Africa as a “missionary kid”. Her schooling, up
until 9th grade, was entirely in French. Polly is a mother of three terrific
adults and is excitedly expecting being a grandma for the first time this
summer.
As a child, she loved drawing and working with various art mediums. In school.
Art class was her favorite subject. In college she painted with oils and
considered majoring in art but ended up getting an elementary teaching degree
followed by a Master’s in Special Education. After graduating and throughout
her teaching career she sporadically continued to paint mostly in oils. Her
grandmother, a self-taught oil painter, inspired Polly. Her mother, Lila Rae, a
potter, also had many artistic inclinations that rubbed off on her.
Enjoyable times as a teacher were doing art projects with her students. She
joined Etsy; where she sells jewelry, boxes, cards and paintings under
“Pollyware”. (Etsy.com is the website where you can browse for all sorts of
arts and crafts.) After retiring several years ago, she joined MAA and
took watercolor classes from a gifted teacher, Susan Witt. It has been lots
of fun! Polly also participated in several enjoyable workshops led by artists
such as Karlyn Holman and Robin Poteet; where she learned so much. Lately
Polly’s artwork has been influenced by the chickens she acquired and now
raises since retiring. She is also interested in natural health & wellness and
became a certified Essential Oils coach making soaps, creams and EO blends
for various ailments.
Constantly amazed by the beauty of God’s creation, she finds her ambition to
replicate it in artwork. Polly finds much enjoyment in painting, creating and
living as close to the way God intended as possible
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JULIE SEXTONE
I have lived in Morgantown, West Virginia for 35 years. During this time, I
raised two boys, had a career in mental health as a Licensed Professional
Counselor and a Board-Certified Art Therapist, and enjoyed the many outdoor
opportunities that West Virginia offers.
My husband and I retired three years ago. We often travel to visit our seven
grandchildren, five in Charlotte, North Carolina and two in Denver, Colorado.
During our trips we like to add on travel adventures for ourselves in an
attempt to see more of the country. Travel is something we both enjoy, and
we plan to visit some of the many foreign countries on our bucket list.
Even as a child I always had a strong interest in art. Over the years my focus
became centered on watercolor painting and photography. To improve my
skills, I have relied on workshops and classes from painters and
photographers who have inspired me. Some of these painters are Zoltan
Szabo, Tom Lynch, Linda Kemp, Annalise Beauchamp, Margaret Lowry,
Christopher Leeper, Karlyn Holman, Lynn Ferris, Andrea Schmitt, Lynn Lysick,
and Susan Witt. I have learned many techniques from these painters who all
have their individual styles. I credit Lansing Community College’s photography
staff with helping me learn technical skills in photography.
I can be contacted at julie.sextone@gmail.com
I have lived in Morgantown, West Virginia for 35 years. During this time, I
raised two boys, had a career in mental health as a Licensed Professional
Counselor and a Board-Certified Art Therapist, and enjoyed the many outdoor
opportunities that West Virginia offers.
My husband and I retired three years ago. We often travel to visit our seven
grandchildren, five in Charlotte, North Carolina and two in Denver, Colorado.
During our trips we like to add on travel adventures for ourselves in an
attempt to see more of the country. Travel is something we both enjoy, and
we plan to visit some of the many foreign countries on our bucket list.
Even as a child I always had a strong interest in art. Over the years my focus
became centered on watercolor painting and photography. To improve my
skills, I have relied on workshops and classes from painters and
photographers who have inspired me. Some of these painters are Zoltan
Szabo, Tom Lynch, Linda Kemp, Annalise Beauchamp, Margaret Lowry,
Christopher Leeper, Karlyn Holman, Lynn Ferris, Andrea Schmitt, Lynn Lysick,
and Susan Witt. I have learned many techniques from these painters who all
have their individual styles. I credit Lansing Community College’s photography
staff with helping me learn technical skills in photography.
I can be contacted at julie.sextone@gmail.com
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SUSAN HALL WITT
knitwit1120@yahoo.com
I am a Morgantown resident who was raised in Preston
County. I have lived in this area all my life and really enjoy
WV and all its beauty. I have only been doing watercolors
for a few years and enjoy doing them and taking classes to
improve my skills. I took weekly classes with Peggy Isaack
and Monica Wilkins. I started taking my first classes with
Andrea Schmidt. I also enjoy taking many workshops.
In addition to watercolors, I do stained glass and teach with
the community school program and in my studio. I enjoy
knitting and teaching people to knit, thus my license plate
"KNITWIT". I am an ex-nurse and had a home based clothing
design and alteration business for years. I enjoy doing
carpentry and building furniture. My husband, Byron, and I
have two daughters, Carrie and Christina. Carrie is a social
worker with Hospice Care Corp. and Christina is a teacher.
The joys of our lives are our two grandsons, Logan and
Brady. It is my job to spoil them, and I have finally found
something that I am truly good at.
Artists Statement:
"I feel that life should be a learning experience, and I am
trying to grasp as much as I can. I have never understood
people who say that have nothing to do. Go out and learn a
new skill. Find something that you enjoy and have fun in life.
We only go through once so make the most of it. I hope
that you enjoy my paintings as much as I enjoy painting
them."
You can view my work on Facebook at "knitwitart"
knitwit1120@yahoo.com
I am a Morgantown resident who was raised in Preston
County. I have lived in this area all my life and really enjoy
WV and all its beauty. I have only been doing watercolors
for a few years and enjoy doing them and taking classes to
improve my skills. I took weekly classes with Peggy Isaack
and Monica Wilkins. I started taking my first classes with
Andrea Schmidt. I also enjoy taking many workshops.
In addition to watercolors, I do stained glass and teach with
the community school program and in my studio. I enjoy
knitting and teaching people to knit, thus my license plate
"KNITWIT". I am an ex-nurse and had a home based clothing
design and alteration business for years. I enjoy doing
carpentry and building furniture. My husband, Byron, and I
have two daughters, Carrie and Christina. Carrie is a social
worker with Hospice Care Corp. and Christina is a teacher.
The joys of our lives are our two grandsons, Logan and
Brady. It is my job to spoil them, and I have finally found
something that I am truly good at.
Artists Statement:
"I feel that life should be a learning experience, and I am
trying to grasp as much as I can. I have never understood
people who say that have nothing to do. Go out and learn a
new skill. Find something that you enjoy and have fun in life.
We only go through once so make the most of it. I hope
that you enjoy my paintings as much as I enjoy painting
them."
You can view my work on Facebook at "knitwitart"
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CINDY O'BRIAN
I am not a native West Virginian, but I like to tell folks I got
here as soon as I could. After the ’85 flood, I traveled up-
river against the flow from a temporary residence in
Point Marion to settle here in Morgantown where I lived
happily ever after. My three children are Morgantown High
graduates and I taught at Mountainview Elementary after
working for years in the Head Start/Pre-K program, so I
hope that establishes a legitimate connection to the
community!
While I have no formal art training, throughout my life I have
found joy in creating. I believe my work with young children
has allowed me to retain an ability to see things in
imaginative ways. A resident of South Park, I enjoy walking
into town regularly. I became aware of the cracks and
patterns on the sidewalks and started taking photos of the
more attractive ones. As I looked at them more closely I
began to construct images that the crack lines suggested. I
printed the photos onto paper and got out my markers,
paints and pencils and brought the images to life.
I became an illustrator of children’s books out of necessity.
After writing a book for children in my Pre-K class, I
wondered how to find someone to illustrate it. In trying to
demonstrate the ideas I had for the illustrations, I played
around with buttons, clay and scraps of materials and
composed my own collage illustrations. I hope the children
who enjoy my books are inspired to make their own “art
work”.
There is beauty in everyday things and I celebrate that with
found-object art made with oxidized copper wire, circuit
boards, or wood fragments found at Cooper’s Rock.
To give back to our community that has provided so much
to me, I donate art to organizations for fundraisers.
Contact me for more information: cobandyo@frontier.com
I am not a native West Virginian, but I like to tell folks I got
here as soon as I could. After the ’85 flood, I traveled up-
river against the flow from a temporary residence in
Point Marion to settle here in Morgantown where I lived
happily ever after. My three children are Morgantown High
graduates and I taught at Mountainview Elementary after
working for years in the Head Start/Pre-K program, so I
hope that establishes a legitimate connection to the
community!
While I have no formal art training, throughout my life I have
found joy in creating. I believe my work with young children
has allowed me to retain an ability to see things in
imaginative ways. A resident of South Park, I enjoy walking
into town regularly. I became aware of the cracks and
patterns on the sidewalks and started taking photos of the
more attractive ones. As I looked at them more closely I
began to construct images that the crack lines suggested. I
printed the photos onto paper and got out my markers,
paints and pencils and brought the images to life.
I became an illustrator of children’s books out of necessity.
After writing a book for children in my Pre-K class, I
wondered how to find someone to illustrate it. In trying to
demonstrate the ideas I had for the illustrations, I played
around with buttons, clay and scraps of materials and
composed my own collage illustrations. I hope the children
who enjoy my books are inspired to make their own “art
work”.
There is beauty in everyday things and I celebrate that with
found-object art made with oxidized copper wire, circuit
boards, or wood fragments found at Cooper’s Rock.
To give back to our community that has provided so much
to me, I donate art to organizations for fundraisers.
Contact me for more information: cobandyo@frontier.com
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DON STEVENS
Artist of the month, Don Stevens, was born and raised in
Fairmont, WV. Don grew up on the east side of Fairmont
and graduated from East Fairmont High School. He earned
his A.B. degree in Art Education, with a specialization in
grades K-12, from Fairmont State College (University).
Following graduation from college, Don taught in Beverly,
Ohio for two years before returning to Marion County. As
a Marion County teacher he taught at Fairmont Senior High
School, East Fairmont Junior High, East Fairmont High
School and finally at Miller Junior High School.
Following retirement he taught young people’s classes at
Mandy’s Artworks, in Fairmont, three evenings a week. Don
taught a total of 42 years with a total of nearly 9,000
students (and friends). Don tells people that he never had to
work a day in his life; teaching was a true joy in so many
ways.
Don was recognized by the city of Fairmont’s Arts and
Humanities Commission as the Outstanding Art Educator in
2006.
Don is a member of the Baptist Temple where he has
served on many boards and committees. He especially
enjoyed his time as an assistant with the Senior High Youth
group for several years.
Don creates works of art in Cross-Stitch, Acrylic and
Watercolor.
Artist of the month, Don Stevens, was born and raised in
Fairmont, WV. Don grew up on the east side of Fairmont
and graduated from East Fairmont High School. He earned
his A.B. degree in Art Education, with a specialization in
grades K-12, from Fairmont State College (University).
Following graduation from college, Don taught in Beverly,
Ohio for two years before returning to Marion County. As
a Marion County teacher he taught at Fairmont Senior High
School, East Fairmont Junior High, East Fairmont High
School and finally at Miller Junior High School.
Following retirement he taught young people’s classes at
Mandy’s Artworks, in Fairmont, three evenings a week. Don
taught a total of 42 years with a total of nearly 9,000
students (and friends). Don tells people that he never had to
work a day in his life; teaching was a true joy in so many
ways.
Don was recognized by the city of Fairmont’s Arts and
Humanities Commission as the Outstanding Art Educator in
2006.
Don is a member of the Baptist Temple where he has
served on many boards and committees. He especially
enjoyed his time as an assistant with the Senior High Youth
group for several years.
Don creates works of art in Cross-Stitch, Acrylic and
Watercolor.
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JANE CARDI
drjcardi@gmail.com
I am a native Ohioan, but I have lived in West Virginia for
many years. West Virginia has been a marvelous home for
my husband and me and our three sons.
I completed my undergraduate degree at Ohio State
University and my master’s and doctoral degrees at West
Virginia University. My areas of study and work were
French, history, and education. I taught French, social
studies, and various education classes at all levels and
served as Assistant Dean and Director of the Advising
Center in the College of Education and Human Resources at
West Virginia University from 2001 to 2015.
Now retired, I am able to dedicate myself to my painting.
While I am not a formally trained painter, I continue to
develop my painting skills by attending workshops and
painting, painting, painting. I work mainly in oils and
watercolors, but I constantly try new techniques, subjects,
and mediums. I love to try to capture the beauty of natural
landscapes, especially the magnificent skyscapes and
mountains in West Virginia. I love a challenge.
I show my paintings in galleries in Oakland, MD, and in
Wheeling, Parkersburg, and Morgantown, WV, and I have had
numerous solo exhibits. I am a member of the West Virginia
Watercolor Society and president of the Morgantown Art
Association.
drjcardi@gmail.com
I am a native Ohioan, but I have lived in West Virginia for
many years. West Virginia has been a marvelous home for
my husband and me and our three sons.
I completed my undergraduate degree at Ohio State
University and my master’s and doctoral degrees at West
Virginia University. My areas of study and work were
French, history, and education. I taught French, social
studies, and various education classes at all levels and
served as Assistant Dean and Director of the Advising
Center in the College of Education and Human Resources at
West Virginia University from 2001 to 2015.
Now retired, I am able to dedicate myself to my painting.
While I am not a formally trained painter, I continue to
develop my painting skills by attending workshops and
painting, painting, painting. I work mainly in oils and
watercolors, but I constantly try new techniques, subjects,
and mediums. I love to try to capture the beauty of natural
landscapes, especially the magnificent skyscapes and
mountains in West Virginia. I love a challenge.
I show my paintings in galleries in Oakland, MD, and in
Wheeling, Parkersburg, and Morgantown, WV, and I have had
numerous solo exhibits. I am a member of the West Virginia
Watercolor Society and president of the Morgantown Art
Association.
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JAN RUNNER
Jan grew up in Fairmont, WV and is a graduate of WVU.
During her time at WVU, she represented West Virginia in
the Miss America contest. While attending events across the
state she met her future husband, Sam Runner. After
crowning a new Miss West Virginia, she and Sam were
married in Miami, FL. While Sam attended the University of
Miami, Jan was a professional model and also taught poise
and modeling.
They returned to West Virginia and started their family.
They remained in Fairmont for five years and after sons
Tim and Todd were born, they moved to Los Angeles, CA
and were in that area for six years.
At that time they were transferred to Miami, FL, and
that’s where Jan started her love of oil painting, taking
classes during her pregnancy for her daughter, Jodie. She
painted for four years, but upon moving to Westport, CT
she gave up painting as she stayed busy with children, job
and personal activities.
The family returned to Charleston, WV and ten years
later moved to the Morgantown area. Jan worked for over
twenty-five years for the Athletic Department as Athletic
Coordinator. Upon retiring to Morgantown she was able to
take up her oil paintings again. Now, being retired from WVU
she continues to enjoy art classes and painting with her
friends. Life is good.
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MIMMIE HEDGES BYRNE
Mimmie Hedges Byrne lives in Hilton Head Island, South
Carolina and Morgantown, West Virginia. She grew up in
rural Spencer, West Virginia. One of nine children, she grew
up surrounded by nature and observing it as a direct
everyday experience. She has lived in WV, except for
college years in New York, and her current part time
residence in South Carolina.
Her husband, Bill, was her most significant enthusiast
about entering the art world and continues to be the most
important critic, supporter and framer of her work. She
has two adult children, Leah and Anne, who are now grown
with their own families in Morgantown and Roanoke.
She is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of
Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at West Virginia
University when she taught, conducted research, and had a
clinical practice as a psychotherapist for over 30 years.
Her career as a teacher and therapist taught her that
observing through listening and watching is a most important
form of research. She continues to use those skills as an
artist and believes that her career taught her that reality
can be seen and experienced in many ways. She enjoys
painting familiar scenes with new ways of expressing them.
Mimmie is grateful for much that has influenced her
artwork including the beauty of the low country and rural
WV, the wonderful instructors in the Art League of Hilton
Head, and friends who paint with her weekly and who share
her love of art and learning.
Most of her works are landscapes with occasional paintings
of grandchildren. Travel provides opportunity to paint many
different things, but she never tires of looking for another
South Carolina marsh to paint.
Mimmie Hedges Byrne lives in Hilton Head Island, South
Carolina and Morgantown, West Virginia. She grew up in
rural Spencer, West Virginia. One of nine children, she grew
up surrounded by nature and observing it as a direct
everyday experience. She has lived in WV, except for
college years in New York, and her current part time
residence in South Carolina.
Her husband, Bill, was her most significant enthusiast
about entering the art world and continues to be the most
important critic, supporter and framer of her work. She
has two adult children, Leah and Anne, who are now grown
with their own families in Morgantown and Roanoke.
She is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of
Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at West Virginia
University when she taught, conducted research, and had a
clinical practice as a psychotherapist for over 30 years.
Her career as a teacher and therapist taught her that
observing through listening and watching is a most important
form of research. She continues to use those skills as an
artist and believes that her career taught her that reality
can be seen and experienced in many ways. She enjoys
painting familiar scenes with new ways of expressing them.
Mimmie is grateful for much that has influenced her
artwork including the beauty of the low country and rural
WV, the wonderful instructors in the Art League of Hilton
Head, and friends who paint with her weekly and who share
her love of art and learning.
Most of her works are landscapes with occasional paintings
of grandchildren. Travel provides opportunity to paint many
different things, but she never tires of looking for another
South Carolina marsh to paint.
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BOB MEROW
Bob Merow is an acrylicpainter living in Morgantown, WV.
Most of Bob’s painting subjects are landscapes and
seascapes.
Bob jokes that his specialties are dead trees and rocks.
“Put a rock in the wrong place and nobody will notice. Put a
nose in the wrong place and everybody will notice.”
Bob has a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape
Architecture from West Virginia University. The curriculum
at WVU provided the opportunity to study art history,
drawing, perspective, color, composition and other subjects
related to painting.
After college Bob spent several years working for
architecture and engineering companies and eventually joined
WVU where he was a Campus Planner until he retired in
2015. He has worked on hundreds of architectural, planning
and graphic design projects and designed and constructed
residential housing over the past 15 years.
Bob paints on wood panels that he cuts out of 4’ X 8’
sheets of Masonite. Most of his paintings include custom
wood framing that make each piece ready to hang. Bob
says, “My goal as a painter is to make something from
nothing that will make you smile.”