Camille Grabb
It was another wonderful day in the neighborhood on Feb. 8, made even more spectacular when some of our PC neighbors and artists swung open their home studio doors to welcome residents wanting a glimpse of where their artistic magic happens!
This first-time event was spearheaded by the Pottery Club and was co-chaired by Diane Greeneich and Camille Grabb. A special thank you to the many award-winning artists including their variety of media: Jeff and Terry Wilson (pottery), Nancy and Jack Hampton (drawing/oils), Marielle Ramsey (watercolor), Susan Herriford (paper/glass), Diane Greeneich (pastels), Judy Hale (acrylic), Kathy Sork (mixed media), Susan Hill (mixed media), and Bill Raymond (woodworking). Of course, each studio had many volunteers, too.
The $10 ticket donation was a fundraiser for Catitude Arts, a local non-profit group focusing on educating up-and-coming school-age artists involved in their “Mural Mentoring” program. Keep an eye out for their colorful works around town. Eight murals have already been completed in the nearby historical Goodyear area and two more are in the design stage. The Goodyear Arts and Culture Commission assists with setting guidelines and assessing the mural designs. See catitudegallery.org.
The $2,010 raised from the event was matched by the Lewis family and will support more artistic efforts around the community. Also, the brochure printing cost contribution by Mary Couzens meant all the funds donated went directly to the “Mural Mentoring” program. Purchasing tickets was also convenient through the assistance of the Creative Arts Center Expressions Gallery and Gift Shop staff.
“Gallons of paint and big brushes are expensive and this generous donation will go a long way,” boasted Founder and Artistic Director Bonnie Lewis.
Beyond that, connecting the talented students with professional artists in PebbleCreek is a win/win situation. Artists sharing their time, knowledge, and experience with up-and-coming art enthusiasts makes for a more beautiful world!
Thanks to the enthusiastic reception of this inaugural event, plans are underway for next year’s wandering through the neighborhoods in search of the talented PC artists who generously open their home studio doors for a glimpse into their personal world of art.