Artist for the Month: Linda Schmillen

Karla Heinz

Linda grew up in South Dakota and eventually attended a trade school in Omaha, Neb. There, she spent 20 years working for a telecommunications company. After being transferred to Denver, Colo. and working there until 2014, she and her husband, Dan, decided to leave the cold weather and came to Arizona. They found PebbleCreek would provide well for an active adult life and soon felt that moving here was the best decision of their lives!

Linda and her husband have a son and a daughter, along with three adorable grandchildren. Their family doesn’t live near, and, since family is so important, she visits them several times a year. Linda and Dan take great pride in their family’s accomplishments.

Linda has always had hobbies to keep her busy, from crocheting to ceramics and stained glass. She has made very large stained glass windows, as well as smaller pieces. Linda then transitioned from stained glass to fused glass. Her designs lean toward the contemporary, and she has several of her glass art pieces adorning the walls in her home. You will find her pieces in the display window or the art gallery for sale.

Volunteering is another passion for Linda. She was a kiln master for the PebbleCreek Glass Arts Club during the COVID year and serves as a mentor from time to time. In addition, she volunteers locally at Abrazo Hospital, where she manages their clothes closet, as well as working in the Trauma Administrative Department.

Staying fit is a top priority, and Linda is an avid walker and hiker. In her spare time, she golfs, takes exercise classes, plays games (Mahjongg, Hand and Foot, puzzles, cards) and reading. You will also find her doing something creative in the glass room.

Unfortunately, Linda has an injury that is keeping her from her normal activities, including making glass art. She will be back this fall and is very much looking forward to it!