The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

Artism Exhibit opens

On April 8 we had our third Vine and Palette painting session and as usual it was a great time. Inspired by artist Georgia O’Keefe and severe cases of spring fever, we painted a large flower. What was even better is some of the participants felt comfortable exploring on their own with color and technique.  (Photo submitted.)
On April 8 we had our third Vine and Palette painting session and as usual it was a great time. Inspired by artist Georgia O’Keefe and severe cases of spring fever, we painted a large flower. What was even better is some of the participants felt comfortable exploring on their own with color and technique. (Photo submitted.)

By Hope Wallace

Our Artism Exhibit opened on Sunday with many of the artists in attendance. Approximately 60 pieces are now on display from 10 artists diagnosed with some form of autism. Autism is considered a spectrum disorder which means exactly how it sounds. While some similar characteristics can be evident no two cases are alike. The artwork on our walls reflects that very fact. Many of the works are for sale and the proceeds support artists who may have limited if any job options. I have already purchased a beautiful sunflower painted by Patra Smilo also of Bittersweet. Patra used to work with me in the art studio there during my job prior to coming to the Wassenberg.

In addition, we are looping a film created by filmmaker, Richard Walsh of Cleveland. This film explains and illustrates how art can help improve, communication, expression and over way of life for person suffering from this neurodevelopmental disorder. It is poignant and very well done. Through this film come and meet some of the artists who have overcome great odds and challenges and are productive and imaginative artists.

Our Artism Exhibit opened on Sunday with many of the artists in attendance. Approximately 60 pieces are now on display from 10 artists diagnosed with some form of autism.  (Photo submitted.)
Our Artism Exhibit opened on Sunday with many of the artists in attendance. Approximately 60 pieces are now on display from 10 artists diagnosed with some form of autism. (Photo submitted.)

Call for entries! Call for entries! The 58th Annual June Art Exhibit is just around the corner. For 58 years the Wassenberg Art Center has hosted its Annual June Art Exhibit. This will be the first year we will be hosting this prestigious exhibit in our newly renovated 6000 square-foot gallery. Once an armory facilitating war and destruction, it now serves creativity and beauty. We encourage artists both professional and amatuer to submit your work for this competitive tradition. Entries will be accepted Saturday and Sunday, May 17 – 18, from 1 – 5 p.m. Entry is open to all artists 18 and older. A non-refundable fee of $25 for Wassenberg Art Center members or $30 for non-members entitles the artist to submit up to three entries. $1,300 in total cash prizes will be awarded.

Want to get in a little ArtReach for your youngster before the end of the school year? We have a few spaces left on our Monday class schedule so give us a call. ArtReach2 classes occur on Mondays and began on April 7 but a new project will be started each week. Class sessions are one-month long and renewable throughout the school year and payable monthly. Van Wert Elementary School will provide transportation to the Goedde Building where our instructor will be on hand to bring students to the art center. However all area students are welcome.

Classic Watercolor class on Tuesday mornings starting at 10 a.m. is an ongoing Watercolor class taught by Pat Rayman. Persons are encouraged to jump in anytime and the class is sold in monthly increments. $35 for members and $40 for non-members.

On April 8 we had our third Vine and Palette painting session and as usual it was a great time. Inspired by artist Georgia O’Keefe and severe cases of spring fever, we painted a large flower. What was even better is some of the participants felt comfortable exploring on their own with color and technique. Something we encourage at the Wassenberg Art Center. Like the individual behind the brush each painting is beautifully different.  Our next session is happening on May 1 with only one or two spaces available. We have scheduled future Vine & Palettes for June 10, July 8, and August 7. Participants are encouraged to bring a friend and a bottle of wine to share, any snacks you may like and we’ll take care of the rest. Class time runs 6:30-9:30 p.m. We provide paints, canvas, brushes, your first glass of wine, and senses of humor! Wear a paint shirt or apron to protect your clothes.

Spots are available for Animaé/Manga (ages 8-130) class taught by instructor, Matthew Temple and is being offered on Thursday evenings, May 8, 15, 22, 29 from 6–8 p.m. A list of inexpensive materials will be available upon registration. Cost for this class is $35 for art center members and $40 for non-members.

Getting ready for thundering hooves on May 3 …Derby Jam is drawing closer and the gates open at 4:30 p.m. We will be live-streaming the 140th Running of the Kentucky Derby, serving derby inspired beverages and food. Barbeque pork, southern style coleslaw, and other awesome homemade treats will be served and following the race we will have one of our favorite bands, Reese Dailey back to play in our new space. Reese Dailey Band is very popular in the Put-in-Bay area and throughout Ohio and our region.

The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 214 S. Washington St. (former Van Wert Armory). For information, call 419.238.6837, e-mail info@wassenbergartcenter.org, or visit the website at wassenbergartcenter.org.  Hours during exhibits are Tuesday through Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

POSTED: 04/16/14 at 1:36 pm. FILED UNDER: What's Up at Wassenberg?