Desiree Mansell
For those not familiar with the Artist of the Year award, a small historical perspective. In 2003 the art club presented its first award, then known as the Carole Christiansen Memorial Award for the Most Improved Artist. In 2015 the award’s title was amended to the PebbleCreek Art Club Artist of the Year. This prestigious award is based on the following criteria: the artist’s body of art work is considered and reviewed, the artist must exhibit creative growth and consistent development of artistic skills, the artist must be an active art club member.
The PebbleCreek Art Club is proud to present the 2017 Artist of the Year, Loretta Pruett.
Before moving to PebbleCreek, Loretta was a special education teacher in Chicago, Illinois. She went back to graduate school and earned her third Master’s Degree to become a high school guidance counselor. Her focus was special education and assisting scores of students traverse the college application and admissions process. Loretta and her husband, James, retired and moved to PebbleCreek in 2005.
When Loretta first arrived, she became active in the Ceramics Club. She was encouraged to take an acrylics class, but acrylics did not resonate with her and she returned to ceramics and added stained glass to her growing interests. Her next class was mixed media, where she found her niche. Mixed media appealed to Loretta because it gave her opportunities to use a variety of mediums and materials. However, Loretta was very shy and unsure of her artistic efforts and abilities. With consistent and ongoing encouragement from teachers and colleagues, she began to gain confidence in her artistic abilities. Loretta was selected as Artist of the Year in 2012.
In the words of those who nominated Loretta as Artist of the Year for 2017:
“She is a willing volunteer who is always there when help is needed, exhibiting enthusiasm and a positive spirit.”
“She encourages other artists and her attitude is always uplifting.”
“Her art skills have progressed over the years as she has continuously taken classes and workshops to increase her knowledge and experience base.”
“Her work has been exhibited inside and outside PebbleCreek, with several art pieces winning awards.”
“She has a distinctive style. Her work is bold, vivid and has evolved over time.”
“She is a person of grace, good humor, optimisim and enthusiasm.”
Loretta’s work will be exhibited in the display cases in the art building during the month of February. Be certain to visit this exhibit, as you will be in for an artistic treat.
Finally, Loretta, your art teachers and colleagues have always believed, we hope that you now believe! Congratulations!