JUNE 2019
Maryann Carter

Anthony first gained an appreciation for art in 2014 when he backpacked across Europe.  “I think that’s the first time I really paid attention to the incredible artwork in the museums,” says Anthony.

Oils are his favorite medium.  Anthony loves the blends and depth you get from working with oil paints.  He believes that is what makes an art piece.

Anthony feels at peace when he is painting.  He says that it is because he is obsessing over the details in the painting he is working on.  “And that’s a complete 180 from my work life, where I’m grinding and always looking to get more.”  By painting, he has learned, “to take in your surroundings and enjoy where your’re at even while you are striving to get ahead.”

Anthony is 32 years old and born and raised in Central Florida.  He paints subject matter that has meaning to him with natural colors and a beautiful style that is uniquely his. 

MAY 2019
Anthony Strada

Maryann began enjoying art in her adult life as she went to museums and shows. One of the most powerful memories she has was her first visit to the National Art Gallery.

Maryann enjoys clay, sculpting, throwing and very recently she has begun to enjoy oil painting. She started painting in oil about a year ago at The Art Room and she is hooked! “I love learning. While painting I feel focused, free and it gives me an opportunity to express a creative side-very different than I use in my every day work. I still need to learn to relax and accept the ‘mistakes’ along the way,” says Maryann.

The life lesson that Maryann has learned from doing art is that time is the most valuable thing we have. “It should be spent well.” Painting is time well spent always!

Maryann is learning so much about values and colors. Her work is vibrant and you can see her inner strength in her paintings. “Art helps you look at the world differently, “she says.

APRIL 2019
Layne Fess

Lynn has always enjoyed art and how it taps into her creative side.  It was her favorite class in school.  Layne says, “It only took me until I was 49 (last year) to actually join a class…and I’m, so glad I did!”  Layne’s grandfather was an oil painter so that is why she chose that class.  “It makes me feel nostalgic,  I love the intensity of the colors and how well they blend.  My next challenge is going to be watercolors though.  I am in awe of the watercolor pieces I see at The Art Room.”

Layne finds creating art very relaxing.  She says that it takes 100% of her focus.  ”It’s nice to have two hours a week that is solely dedicated to creating and to be surrounded by such talented and encouraging artists.  I always look forward to Thursdays!!”

Layne says that art has definitely teaches her patience.  “I’m a very slow and meticulous painter and am learning with every stroke.  I love the freedom in class to make mistakes and even learn my own style…which involves a lot of q-tips and turpenoid corrections.”

“The Art Room is an exceptional place to paint and create.  I have never been around so many talented individuals that encourage and truly enjoy one another.  It very much feels like a family!”

MARCH 2019
Karen Murphy

Karen Murphy is an Interior Designer by trade and has always been interested in art.  In 2008, Karen took her first art class at The Art Room with Linda.  She says that is when her whole perspective leaped forward.  The class was way out of her box as she had very little talent as an artist, so she thought….she quickly felt a huge sense of accomplishment and was pleasantly surprised at her painting ability.  She has been painting at The Art Room every sense.  Karen says, “I feel like I now have an extended family of friends.  It’s like returning to college at an older age.”

Karen enjoys painting in acrylic and oil.  She tried Maria’s alcohol inks this year and really enjoyed them too.  ”PJ”s acrylic and abstracts/acrylics class was a new awakening with so much freedom of expression or present accidents!  When does that happen in life!  They mix medium with charcoal, pastels, acrylics and collage paper.  It was so rewarding to see all the different techniques combined in underlays with an amazing outcome.”

Karen says, ”I can honestly tell you painting has done more for me mentally than any therapist or antidepressant could ever do!  I’m not saying this loosely as I’ve read studies how it helps the brain relax and heal. If I find myself overwhelmed with design work I have to stop and say what am I not doing in my life to keep the balance? When I add the art classes back in, the balance returns.”  Karen has a studio set up at home so she can access it throughout the day.  “It’s been stated that when you are painting the other side of your brain can’t work through your stress issues. When you sleep, it’s still processing these issues however when you’re painting this stress side of your brain completely stops! NO WONDER IT IS HEALING!  Art is a “HIGH“ that I will always crave and be connected too!” 

Karen has gained a lot of insight in life from art.  Art has taught her patience and helps her work through learning something new .  She has learned not to be too critical of herself and that everyone is an artist to their own degree.  It has totally changed the way she sees the world. She says, “I see objects now with lights and shadows and depth and beauty daily!  If I watch the emerald water of the sea, I am processing how to put it on canvas.”

“Art at The Art Room has given me friendships and I have gained so much LIFE, from painting with my family members (6) and developing great new friendships .