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Spotlight Member: Barbara Egr 

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Sat. Oct 10, 2020

Tell us about you? 

I was born in Illinois but raised in Omaha. I love the Midwest and the changing seasons. I was the “surprise that turned into the blessing.” (my parents’ words)! My grandmother lived with us and we hung out together a lot. 

Emmett and I knew some mutual friends who introduced us. We have nine grandchildren and three children. 

I went to Metro and was trained as a commercial artist. I worked for the Yellow Pages way back when. However, I felt “the call” to become a teacher in my 30s. How great is it that we live in a country where we can return to college at any point in our lives? So, I returned to college and earned a teaching degree. 

I taught first grade for 15 years. After my brother passed in 2012, I took a hard look at my life and decided I would leave the classroom and sub. I was working about 70 hours a week and I was afraid I would be so busy I would not participate in my grandchildren’s lives. I wanted them to know me and I wanted to know them! 

About three years ago, I joined the Passageway Gallery in Omaha’s Old Market. It is a co-op gallery, and everyone is quite helpful in teaching artists how to grow. Last year, just before Covid-19, I joined Nebraska City’s Self Expressions Gallery. Both galleries have been a lot of fun! 

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists, Inc? 

My mother passed before I was 30. At that time, I knew a fellow artist, and some of you know her, too. Her name was Maxine Tatreau. She became my “adopted” mother. She had been a member of OAI, and she encouraged me to join when I left the classroom. 

What do you like most about this organization or the people? 

I love the membership! We are fortunate to have a diverse group – some of our artists are professionals while others are just beginning the journey. I am a people-person. It is from others I gain energy and when we meet for Fun Shops or general meetings to learn about others, I draw a star on my calendar for a “red letter day!” Remember, if you’re not enjoying this thing called “life” then you’re doing something wrong! Now, of course, we all have bad days and even chapters in life, but OAI adds spice to life for me. 

Anything you would recommend to new members or those thinking of joining? 

Let us know you want to get involved, please! We are looking for three people, right now, to help on an easy committee! 

Tell us about a couple of your favorite books you have read (name and author)? 

“Business Boutique” by Christy Wright and “First Phone Call from Heaven” by Mitch Albom 

What are your travel experiences? 

Our family camped all over the Midwest as I was growing up. I saved up my pennies and visited relatives in Germany when I was 20. I have visited many, many National Parks, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Caribbean 

What are you known for? 

I am tall, patient, kind, and cannot tell a joke, although sometimes I am naturally humorous! 

What skills would you like to learn? 

I love watercolor. It is a goal to keep some areas of the composition negative and just keep the white paper. 

Has anything or anyone changed your life? 

I believe my parents had a huge influence on my attitude. They were positive and saw problems as “stepping stones from which to grow”. When I asked my father what he thought about me returning to college to become a teacher he said, “Go for it, kid!” 

What is your favorite quote or saying? 

Be positive...it’s my blood type and motto for life! 

Katie Johnson

Member Spotlight Reporter

Spotlight Member

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Tue. Sep 15, 2020

Tell us about you? 

I was born and raised in Douglas County. I have made art from the time I was able to hold a stick, chalk or a crayon! I attended high school in Elkhorn because it was the closest school with an art department; I found not only an art teacher, but a mentor, supporter, and a friend...who still visits me at the Hot Shops! 

I have been with my husband, Kevin since December 5, 1971 when we started going steady and married following 4 years of college (Art). We have two children – a son and a daughter and 3 grandchildren with #4 due in February! 

I have always made art a part of my daily life – whether in sales of my own or that of others, many co-operative ventures, boutiques/ and mail orders. I was 18 years in floral design, had folk art gallery in Valley 93-97, involved in country cooperative “cherisables” – mural painting – volunteering, art donations and lots of free labor! 

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists, Inc? What other organizations do you belong? 

I was invited to join OAI by Bobbie Harvey and took part in the first anniversary party (Maurine Cummins was President)! There was a need for art supplies by several groups: I had made connections through a nurse at UNMC who was paying for supplies from her own pocket…thus, the Community Art Reach Program was born – when I was President of OAI (2000-2001)! I have held every office with OAI except Hostess and Treasurer! Last year, Rose Rutherford joined me as Co-Chair and Sally Calhoun as my ‘hands on assistant’! 

I think membership in a group of like-minded people, who are committed to art and promoting art is a must for even “Sunday Painters”. We all need our TRIBE! You are never “not really an artist”, you just may not do it as often as others or as much as you would want. 

I am a member of ANAC since 1996-on Exhibition for 3 terms, Secretary for 9 years and a member of the Fremont Art Association (I was president of both FAA and OAI at the same time!). 

How did you get involved in art? Tell us how art evolved, your inspiration, awards? 

I have never not done art – I was always surrounded by very artistic people! My work has always been in a state of flux – I create in multiples, not necessarily a series, but many pieces at once, assembling and always with a finished product in mind. My inspiration is that I have the ability to MAKE. I am so grateful for this blessing. I cannot imagine not being able to imagine! 

I have been very fortunate to receive many awards in the eons I have been doing this…from county fair in 2nd grade, Capital Conference art shows in High School-Gold Key-Purchase Award in ANAC: My favorite recognition was my parents pride in everything I did as well as my daughter now in her 15th year of teaching ART! 

What is a little-known fact about you? 

I co-wrote “Big Red Quilt-ED”. A Curriculum for 4th grade teachers which was a state-wide program through the NE State Quilt Guild. 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time, your favorite books you have read, author? 

I love magazines – especially art, antiques, and crafts in America, Ornaments. I love Maya Angelou, “Make the present comfortable and the future promising”. 

What are your travel experiences? 

Just when travel was possible, we can’t as I am the babysitter when my daughter goes back to teaching…and so it goes! 

What are you known for? 

I think I am known for thinking outside the box and doing work that causes people to stop and think or at least smile! 

What skills would you like to learn? 

I really love metal and because my fine motor skills are leaving because of arthritis – welding is really BIG Jewelry, right? I love plasma cutting and would like more practice at that! 

Has anything or anyone changed your life? 

Dorothy Tuma gave me the opportunity to be in the Hot Shops Art Center when I was starting to burst out of the walls I had put myself in – without that confidence she had in me and my work, I would not have kept progressing. Dorothy and Harriet Otis always helped me commit to art for the joy of it! 

What is your favorite quote or saying? 

Back to Maya: “We cannot change the past, but we can change our attitude toward it”. 

Spotlight Member Section featuring Jo Anne Nielsen

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Thu. Jun 11, 2020

Tell us about you.

I was born in Hastings, NE and was in the same nursery as Dr. Jack Stark who is a Nebraska Board of Regents Candidate! I have lived in the Omaha area since I was 6 years old. Most of my schooling was at Franklin Elementary and then Jr. and Sr. High at Tech High School, (now the TAC Building). I have 2 children, Steve 55 and Lori made it to 50 (deceased 2019) and I have 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandsons.

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists, Inc.

I have been in Omaha Artists, Inc. since 1992. In 1994 right after my 3rd grandchild died of SIDS, Helen Patane asked me if I would like to be on the Hostess Committee, my response was an immediate yes! Judy Webster, Binck Utterback and I worked on this committee until 1997. Then I was on Membership for only a year because then I became the President for 2 terms. In 2000, I went back to being on the Membership Committee (I loved it). I didn’t think I was doing enough for the club so in 2001, I went on the ANAC Committee with Dick Brown. Once again in 2002, I didn’t think I was doing enough to keep out of trouble, so along with everything else, I took on the newsletter. In 2011, I became the Treasurer and I am still doing it! I have also assisted with the Art Shows and as Vice President published the roster (matter of fact several times). Someone asked why I have worked on so many committees. While never having won an art show award, I love this organization and want it to succeed and make it a great experience for others.

How did you get involved in art?

Funny story, after being so busy with my daughter’s wedding plans in 1990, I suddenly wondered what I was going to do with the rest of my life. I started a watercolor class with Opal Parmenter and did not have a clue what I was doing, but stuck with it. Watercolor is still my favorite medium.

What other organizations do you belong?

Presently, I belong to 2 book clubs. I am an Elder at my church and in charge of the Fellowship Committee. Back in 1995, my daughter Lori and I turned a negative into a positive by working with the Nebraska SIDS Foundation: we published a cookbook – three cookbooks to be exact! I have been a member of ANAC (Association of Nebraska Art Clubs) for 21 years, was the Newsletter Chair for 12 years and presently the ANAC Registrar!

What is a little-known fact about you?

I am a Beauty School Drop-Out. I got pregnant while in beauty school and could not handle the smells of hair color and permanent solution! I have been so busy in my life, a paying position was not an option. I guess I would rather do without and do for others instead.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

My absolute favorite is watching television (reality, drama, movies, sitcoms, documentaries, just about everything). I also like to read, put puzzles together and time spent with friends. After 96 hours of watching Homeland, perhaps this was not the right time to ask this question, because I obviously have Covid-Brain! LOL!

What are your travel experiences?

I was very fortunate, while married, my ex and I loved to travel. There are only 4 states that I have not visited – West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland and Washington DC. We camped in much of the United States. I have traveled to 9 different countries in Europe and have taken 4 cruises.

How do you stay motivated to paint?

This is a difficult question to answer! I love to paint but I have to be in the MOOD and I do have good intentions, then something else comes up! I love workshops. Katie Johnson and I went to David Smith’s watercolor workshop in Sioux Falls, SD just before the Coronavirus began. Also the Omaha Artists Inc. members motivate me... I simply LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them.

What are you known for?

I guess, my RED HAIR and WALKER. And I am the only member that can speak REALLY LOUD to get people’s attention!

What skills would you like to learn?

I would like to attend an acrylic workshop. I have painted with acrylics, but have never been properly trained.

Has anything or anyone changed your life?

Yes, life’s experiences are valuable lessons. I have worked very hard to make my life what it is today.

What is your favorite quote or saying?

I hate it but, use it often – “It is, what it is”!

Spotlight Member Section featuring Pat Lontor

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Sat. Mar 7, 2020

Tell us about you:

I grew up in a suburb, Bedford, about 15 miles from Cleveland, OH. My parents had a couple acres of land, so I grew up with horses, chickens, dogs and cats. I graduated from Bedford High School and then attended Ohio University in Athens, OH. That is where I met my husband. We were married and had our first daughter while we were still in college. We both worked for the University and Chuck had several other part time jobs.

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc:

I don’t remember the actual year I joined Omaha Artists. We moved to Omaha in November 1989, so it was probably around 1991 or 1992. I have chaired several committees in the past as well as being the president.

I like the fact that we have several art shows during the year which allows every member to get a chance to publicly show their art. Also, there are some lovely people with the same interests as mine that I have met throughout the years.

What I would recommend to a new member—get involved! That is the way you make friends and really enjoy the organization.

How did you get involved with the Joslyn Art Museum and your history with the Joslyn?

I have moved several times during my adult life. It is always easier to make friends when your children move with you. Omaha was the second move without children. They were young adults and of course did not want to move. I have always been involved with art, so I took a public tour at the Joslyn Art Museum and decided to become a docent. That was the Fall of 1990. Training was a lot different at that time. I was thrown in with the experienced docents from day one. It was very intimidating to say the least. There were no computers, but Joslyn had a wonderful library where I spent a lot of time studying. The first tour I gave was a special exhibition called “The Wanderers”. It was Russian art from the mid-1800s from Russia. Many of the famous Russian artists of the time were included. It was really a great exhibit. When I went to Russia, I went to the Russian Museum which was not on the tour itinerary and saw a lot of the art that had been at the Joslyn. My earliest friendships in Omaha were made through being a docent.

How did you get involved in art? What is your favorite medium?

I have always liked and been involved with art. My dad was a good artist and his sister, my aunt, had graduated from the Cleveland Art Institute. However, no one really encouraged me. I really became serious about painting when we were living in Baltimore.

My favorite medium is oil. I am a slow painter, oil dries slowly so it allows me to play with it. I have tried pottery and welding among others. I like both of them and learning the process helps a great deal in explaining a piece of artwork when I am giving a tour. I have also done photography.

What is a little-known fact about you?

I don’t know!!! Perhaps the fact that I was a Girl Scout all through school (2nd through 12th grades) Our troop stayed together for all of those years. Some great friendships were made. As we got older, we worked all year to go on a trip in the summer. We rented cottages on Lake Michigan, spent a week on Pelee Island in Lake Erie and went to a dude ranch in upstate NY among other trips. I became a Scout Leader for each of my daughters. A total of ten years. I will never sleep in a tent again!!!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I am a collector—not a hoarder, a collector! It seems that I cannot have just one of anything. I collect art and antiques among other things. For years I have had an antique booth at Platte Valley Antiques.

What are your favorite televisions shows?

Actually, I do not watch much TV. However, I do love live plays and try to go to as many as possible.

What are your travel experiences?

I have been lucky enough to travel quite a bit. After my husband retired, we went to Europe several times, including to the 1994 Olympics in Norway. We also tried to get together, as a family one week a year in different places. I have been to Italy twice for an art workshop which was wonderful. In the states I have taken lessons in Cleveland, Baltimore and St. Louis when we lived there. And when we moved to Omaha, I took lessons here.

How do you stay motivated to paint – what inspires you? Do you have words of wisdom to share?

I have always tried to paint at least four to six hours a week, which is not much. I am trying to do better now that I am getting old-er and while I can still see and hold a brush! Portraits inspire me, I love portraits—both painting them and looking at other por-traits by other artists. My house is full of portraits! I have a group that meets in my basement one evening a week. We hire a model and paint from life. That inspires me. The age range is huge, but we have all become friends. Our art ties us together.

Words of wisdom – that is tough. My wisdom may not be someone else’s. However, just make time for yourself and your art. It is so easy to get caught up in something else and then regret that you have not done what you wanted. Time goes by quickly.

What are you known for?

I really don’t know.

What skills would you like to learn?

At my age I prefer to hone the skills I think I have.

Has anything or anyone changed your life?

My husband changed my life. Thanks to him and his job we moved, met new people, expanded our experiences, traveled and grew.

What is your favorite quote or saying?

“The cure for anything is saltwater: sweat, tears or the sea”. – Isak Dinesen

Spotlight Member Section featuring Emmett Egr

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Sun. Feb 9, 2020

Tell us about you?

I am recently retired from the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District. I served for 40 years as Information and Education Coordinator for the NRD. Before that, I produced and directed educational television programs and films for KYNE-TV at UNO.

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc?

I have been a member of Omaha Artists for about two years. I joined following the urging of my wife, Barbara Egr, who seems to think that I have some talent with photography. I have enjoyed making new friends in the club and having an opportunity to display my photography at OAI shows. I help set up the microphone and speaker system for the luncheon meetings.

How did you get involved in art and what is your favorite medium?

My duties at the NRD included a fair amount of photo journalism. Today, I am shifting gears toward a more artful form of photography.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoy fishing. We have a boat and enjoy taking the boat to various lakes in Nebraska and South Dakota. Fishing for walleye is my favorite. I also enjoy doing home improvements and landscaping our yard.

What are your travel experiences?

Barbara and I love to travel. We have been to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Alaska and to many of our nearby western states – Colorado, Wyoming and Montana are favorites.

What are you known for?

Landscape and wildlife photography are my favorites. I try to capture lots of images when I travel outside of Nebraska. However, Nebraska is also a beautiful state and many beautiful photos are taken here. I follow many photography-oriented Facebook pages with Nebraska thru the Lense and Natural Nebraska among my favorites.

What skills would you like to learn?

In some ways I am relatively new to art photography and have much to learn about the capabilities of my mirrorless camera. Photoshop is my post-processing software choice. However, I am a believer in the “Less is Best” approach to enhancing images.

Spotlight Member Section featuring Neva Cozine

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Wed. Jan 8, 2020

Our Spotlight Member Article this month is Neva Cozine. This section is meant to get to know each other! 

Tell us about you? 

I am in Nebraska because my dad was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base and my sister and I were in college at the time when the rest of the family moved to the next assignment. So we are here in Nebraska and Kansas. I met my spouse in graduate school; we have two children. One of my jobs, I was employed as a graphic designer. 

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc? 

I have been in Omaha Artists Inc. about 18 months and am a Fun Shop Co -chair. I love talking to others about art, and it is an organization that seems to be looking for ways for people to enjoy their art, grow creatively and enjoy others who are artists. 

How did you get involved in art and what is your favorite medium? 

Involved always! I love watercolor. 

What is a little-known fact about you? 

It is so little-known that even I don't know it! 

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

I love to work around my house. I recently painted the walls of my “art room” and added those cool shelves to display art. 

What are your travel experiences? 

I have been all over the world, but now travel every year to see our son in California and daughter in Massachusetts. 

What are you known for? 

Not sure of this. Note: A member who wishes to remain anonymous, says Neva Cozine is known for her contagious happy spirit and her willingness to help! 

What skills would you like to learn? 

Working with ink and watercolor. 

Has anything or anyone changed your life? 

We lived in Japan for 3 years when I was in junior high. That impacted my taste in art and love of the Japanese culture. 

What is your favorite quote or saying? 

My mother said “Never throw away dirt.” 

Spotlight Member Section featuring Dick Brown

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Wed. Nov 6, 2019

This Spotlight Member Section is meant to get to know each other!

Tell us about you?

I was born in Boulder, Colorado a LONG TIME AGO and grew up in Greeley, Colorado! As a youngster I was very introverted—sort of a “loner”. I opened up by high school, played some basketball and golf but no other activities. For one thing, I always had a part time job, from the time I was 12! I met my wife Mitzi in college at University of Northern Colo. We were married in 1957 and both graduated in 1958. I then reported to the U.S. Air Force as a brand new 2nd Lieutenant. We had 4 children, 3 boys and a girl. They are scattered all over the country. After 24 years, I retired from the Air Force as a Lt. Colonel at Offutt AFB. We stayed in the Omaha area since Mitzi began her own career at Mutual of Omaha as a computer programmer. She retired in 1997 as a Senior Systems Analyst in the middle of a six- year battle with breast cancer. She died in 1999. I have 8 grandchildren, 7 of whom live close by---Great!!

Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc?

I joined OAI in 1987. I have always been working with our participation in ANAC. For about 12 years I was the person who took all the artwork from OAI. Bellevue Artists, Associated Artists of Omaha. And Council Bluffs to the annual ANAC Conference. I hung all the artwork, took it down, and returned it to the various clubs. I finally decided that was too much, and we reorganized. Omaha Artists has always been an amazingly caring and helpful group: I am proud to be part of it.

How did you get involved in art?

My mother was an artist in her later years. I have always enjoyed and appreciated art. When I retired, I still had some VA eligibility and used it to study art for 2 years at UNO. I joined Bellevue Artists and OAI, and here I am 30 years later! I mostly do watercolors.

What is a little-known fact about you?

I am a lay pastor in the Presbyterian Church. I have preached in 41 churches in Eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa over the past 25 years, many of them more than once. I regularly conduct services in Colorado. I recently retired from 30 years of teaching Adult Sunday School.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love fly fishing and have since I was about six years old. I fish all summer at my mountain home in Colorado. I read a lot - mostly non-fiction. I do a lot of wildlife photography.

What are your travel experiences?

I have traveled the U.S. quite well. The Air Force graciously showed me Vietnam and a tiny island at the end of the Aleutian Islands! I just hope to be able to enjoy my mountains each summer and I’ll be happy,

What are you known for?

Probably for my funny T-shirt collection!

What skills would you like to learn?

I need to become computer literate-----I am hopeless!

Has anything or anyone changed your life?

My service to my country and my faith have influenced my life and determined who I am today.

Spotlight Member Section featuring Dorothy Tuma

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Wed. Oct 9, 2019

Q: Tell us about you?

A: A farm, high on a hill, in the middle of Colfax County was home. I attended a country school until 8th grade, then went off to the big town of Clarkson, NE for high school. I had two older brothers, who got me into more trouble, so I was an extremely accomplished tom-boy. In high school, I sang in the madrigals and chorus and played French horn in the band; I was Valedictorian of my class, so I was pretty much a nerd.

Dean and I met while I was a senior in high school and he was a student at Creighton University. After a year at UNL, Dean and I were married, we recently celebrated our 55th anniversary. We have three children, Deb and her husband are professors at the University of Arkansas, their sons (our grandsons) Robby and his wife are currently relocating to Oklahoma, where Robby will begin as a writer and reporter for the four public radio stations at University of Oklahoma. Nate, a 2019 FFAR Fellow, is studying for his PHD in food science at UNL. Pam, our second daughter is Chair and professor in the Biology Department at Catholic University in Washington DC. She and her husband, a cultural anthropologist, live in Baltimore, MD. Our son and his wife live in Seabeck, WA, where he is the Director on Membership at the YMCA.

Since I married early, I went back to get my degree at Creighton University, I changed my major from journalism to theology. I graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1996. Along the way I was a Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, The Associate Director of Cathedral Arts Project and a photographer for The Catholic Voice. I retired from the Archdiocese in 2004. Now I’m in retirement, whatever that really means!

Q: Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc.

A: I joined OAI in the late 1990s, I served as President (also advisor), on the Art Committee, and was Courtesy Chair for more years than I want to remember!!! I love the camaraderie of the artists and learning new skills from other professionals.

Q: What other organizations are you a member or have belonged?

A: 4-H was a given in our family, I followed my brothers, and was a member and a junior leader as a teen. In art, I belonged to Associated Artists, SDA, and SAQA. I am a member of Alpha Sigma Nu honor society through Creighton University.

Q: How did you get involved in art and what mediums do you prefer?

A: Photography for the newspaper led me to photography as art. I had a number of solo photography shows throughout the years. After years of photography I turned to textiles, my preferred medium these days. But that doesn’t mean I won’t try others, I recently took pour acrylic and cold wax/oil classes...even I’m not too old to learn, although probably not with much proficiency!!

Q: What is a little-known fact about you, something most people do not know?

A: A little known fact, I modeled at the State Fair in high school and as did both of my daughters when they were in high school; 4-H being the common denominator.

Q What do you enjoy doing in your “free time”?

A: When I’m not creating, I love to read, my favorite genre is mysteries!

Q: What are your travel experiences – Where is the most interesting or favorite place you have been?

A: When my husband was working, I went to most places he spoke at conferences. Canada, Italy, Germany, the Scandinavian countries, Russia, Japan, New Zealand and Australia, were among of his speaking venues. My favorite was Ayres Rock in Australia, although I called Santa Fe, NM my home-away-from-home for 15 years.

Q: What is your favorite movie? Favorite Book? Favorite Music or Song?

A: I’m a Dan Brown fan, so have read all of his books. I’m not much into movies, but love live theater, and classical music. Anything produced by the BBC are my tv shows of choice.

Q: What is in your bucket list? What do you wish to accomplish or do before you die?

A: My bucket list is pretty short, I would like to spend time in Spain.

Q: Has anything or anyone changed your life or what events in your life made you who you are?

A: My faith leads my life, and probably more than anything else has made me ‘who I am’.

Q: What are you known for – what you are famous for among your friends and family?

A: I haven’t a clue what I am famous for, I only hope people see me as an advocate for others.

Q: What personal rules or personality trait describes you?

A: I am a contemplative, so enjoy time just being quiet, this has been part of my nature since I was a little girl. As an introvert, I walk away when my energy level lags, in order to recharge my batteries. Other people may find this annoying!

Spotlight Member Section featuring Patti Kounkel

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Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Mon. Sep 9, 2019

Q: Tell us about you?

A: I am originally from Dodge, Nebraska, a small town 80 miles west of Omaha. I grew up in an idyllic setting, a farm next to the town park where there was always something to investigate with many hours spent making a house in the trees or the barn. I was the youngest of four and very shy and spent a lot of time drawing. Although I had some obvious talent my parents got me organ lessons thinking I may make an occupation out of it. My later years while on a trip to Hawaii, a cousin who lived in Honolulu encouraged me to take art lessons, which I did. I will never be able to thank her enough because it opened up an entire new world for me. I learned oil painting from a man in Honolulu who had a view of Diamond Head. He spent invaluable time teaching me how to mix color. Back in the states, I attended Patricia Steven's College and really appreciated the Interior Design and Illustration classes. I lived life for a while, marrying, having two children (my biggest passions) and going thru trials and errors. In 1990 I found myself newly divorced and in need of a job. I started cleaning houses and during those years I started a business "Murals by Patricia". I always had the propensity to paint on a large scale so it was a perfect fit. I slowly grew my business and worked with Builders and Interior Designers which got me involved in many of the "Street of Dreams" and "Designer Show Houses". At this time, I switched over to acrylics because they dried faster. It was a good time for personal and artistic growth. It was very lucrative and gave me the best opportunity to help raise my children as a single parent. After about ten years I met my husband Tom, who also had children and together we have a fantastic blended family 

Q: Tell us about your history with Omaha Artists Inc. 

A: I retired from painting murals for the most part and looked online for an art club. I was a little nervous at my first Fun shop and Luncheon, but it didn't take long and I got to know people that I consider good friends. I've been in the club seven years and help as the Hostess with my sidekick, Carol McCall. I check out restaurants and make reservations for our luncheons. I also write the luncheon information for each newsletter. Carol collects names for those who want to attend. It's a joint effort and it's fun to be involved. I am the newly appointed chairperson for the upcoming Gala celebrating the 75 year anniversary of Omaha Artists Inc. 

Q: Tell us something about you that most people do not know! 

A: A little known fact (or maybe not) is I have a quirky sense of humor, some may say odd. It runs in the family. My son is actually making a living as a comedian/writer and extra in Los Angeles. It's been a life of laughter and pranks. You may be at a family gathering and someone will come out of the bathroom wearing nothing but a towel. Anything to shock your audience is the best joke of all. You just don't know what to think of this bunch I call family, but I wouldn't have it any other way. 

Q: What hobbies, other interests do you enjoy? Favorite vacations? 

A: When I'm not painting, I am babysitting our little granddaughter. I love to clean house (weird I know). I enjoy decorating and reading spiritual books. Each year I have a large garden and enjoy canning the harvest! I play the piano, but not well...sorry mom and dad...didn't end up being the occupation they had hoped for. LOL! 

My husband and I love to travel. We have a large travel trailer which we take on excursions from a few days to a month or more. We've also traveled to Europe and the UK a number of times. I loved the small medieval towns of Italy, the historic part of Prague, Ireland, Scotland. There are too many places to see and not enough time! 

Q: What is a motto or saying that you live by and like or that describes you…a statement or slogan or quote? 

A: The motto I live by is ...."You can't stay young forever but you can stay immature indefinitely". I do my best to uphold this sacred motto. 

Spotlight Member Section featuring Shirley Schmidt

Details

Category: Spotlighted Members

Published: Sun. Jun 9, 2019

Q: Tell us about you?

A: I have been a life-long Omaha resident and attended South High School, graduating in a class of over 800 students. I married my high school sweetheart, Ron: we have been married almost 53 years. We have two children, our daughter, Andrea and our son, Ryan. Our daughter has a blended family of five children and our son is single. Luckily, they all reside in Omaha, so we are very fortunate to be able to spoil our grandchildren and watch them grow.

Q: Tell us about your OAI History

A: I've worked for several businesses and retired as a technical writer at a company that conducted marketing research for nationwide hospitals. After retirement, and a few years of watching (spoiling) our grandchildren while my daughter worked, I returned to my interest of art. That's when I began my online search of clubs in Omaha and found Omaha Artists. I don't remember the year I joined, only that I was very reluctant to join because I've had no formal art classes. I am so glad that I did not let that deter me, as it has been such an enjoyable experience.

Q: What hobbies, sports or other interests do you enjoy? 

 A: As well as my undying passion for art, golfing, traveling and reading are other past times that fill my retirement days. I started a book club with a group of 15 friends about 12 years ago and meet on a monthly basis. We have read so many wonderful books that I would have never chosen on my own, with my two favorites being "Cutting for Stone" and "Snow Falling on Cedars". I hope to continue traveling, "arting", golfing and maintaining good health. My husband and I travel to the Florida panhandle in the winter. It is an area near Destin which is quiet, right on the ocean (a little artsy) and I am very thankful that we both still have our good health to be able do this.

Q: What do you enjoy most about Omaha Artists Inc?

A: So much of what our club offers is very fulfilling, from our monthly workshops and luncheon/speaker meetings to all of the wonderful art shows that are made available to us. It has been so interesting learning from all of the area artists that have shared their artistic talent to teach us their skill and technique.

Q: What other organizations are you a member?

A: I am involved with Assistance League of Omaha. We are an Omaha chapter of a nationwide organization consisting mostly of retired teachers. We have many philanthropic programs; our biggest one is clothing over 3,000 Omaha needy school children in the fall. I have been a member of this organization for over five years. We hold a "Christmas Caravan" activity in November to help fund all of our endeavors. Four homes are opened up and area florists decorate for Christmas and the public is invited to tour these homes. This is one of our biggest money-makers.

Q: How did you get involved in art and what medium do you enjoy most?

 A: While raising our children and before going back to work full time, I started a small stenciling business in Omaha. I sold hand-cut stencil designs to a few small craft stores in Omaha and also stenciled homes. However, this art form seemed to grow out of style and I returned to the work force. This was my first engagement to art since drawing paper dolls in my childhood with my older sister. I have a hard time deciding what art medium I enjoy the most. Experimenting with alcohol inks, acrylic, watercolor and mosaic all hold my interest. After a winter trip to Florida a few years ago and taking a class there using resin, I guess this has become my current passion. This is a process affixing frit (small ground glass), beads, paint, and other objects on glass. It has also been fun to play with powders mixed in with the resin to create ab-stract paintings.

Q: What is a little-known fact about you:

A: Ron and I lived briefly in Texas before he was deployed to Viet Nam in 1967. While in Texas I worked at Gibson Department Store. When I was working there, we received a phoned-in bomb threat. Management cleared the store of all customers…..however employees were told to look for the bomb. This was the 60's! Happily (and to my good health) a bomb was not found that day. But one exploded in another store a few months later and was found to be by a disgruntled employee. I love telling people this story,..it is a little hard to believe!!