TERRE HAUTE - Artist Leigh Schinaia, Karen LeVan, Doyne Weir, John Rodgers and Rebecca Lynch will have works on exhibit in September at the Vigo County Library at Seventh and Poplar streets.

      "Photographs only take a second to take, but a lifetime to perfect." says Schinaia. She believes that everyone can, and has had the ability to take a great photo, but it is those that take the time to examine the world through the lens that can really appreciate the craft.

      "Although Photography is a big part of my life, it is only one aspect of what I love about the medium. The way you can capture a moment, a feeling, or spirit is the most inspiring aspect." "I find myself looking at every moment in life and how to frame it. Especially since I studied film making, I can't even enjoy a simple movie anymore without thinking 'That is a great camera angle'...it is definitely a double edged sword."

      Although Schinaia sees parts of the world as a great photography experience, she finds herself having to be inspired. "Sometimes I go months without feeling inspired to take a photograph, then other times taking pictures of everything."

On Display:
Pictured are works "Watch This" by Leigh Schinaia (above) & Karen LeVan's "Shining" (right).

      "Paint what you know best," LeVan says, "seemed to be the sensible rule to follow," when she started her artwork again four years ago. There was no dispute over what her subject might be, after an Equine career, both personal and professional that spanned 40 years. "Most artists tell me painting horses is intimidating," she says "but I've had an anatomy lesson daily for decades." The rainbow of coat coloration, variety of breeds, sizes and Equine personalities give her unlimited subject matter.

      Currently, Karen is exhibiting some of her artwork, through September, at the Maryland Church located on route 46 in Terre Haute. Please contact Jack Fox at 812-234-7100 ext 205 for more information. Or check out their website at www.mccth.org.

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      Doyne Weir began painting in High School. An Art teacher, Mrs. Irwin, encouraged Weir to continue her work. Most of Weir's work is in oil. Weir's cards are done in watercolor. She loves to paint animals. Weir has exhibited at Rose Hulman and the Swope Gallery. She recently participated in the group showing at "Coffee Grounds" sponsored by the Wabash Valley Art Guild.

      Weir paints at the senior center every Monday under the instructions of Melody Miller. Weir says, "In October my friends and I will be painting in the covered bridge at Fowler Park during 'Old Pioneer's Days."

      Interested in art at an early age, John Rodgers started drawing cartoon character at age five. While in school Rodgers was taught how to use oil and acrylic paint. "Acrylic is the paint of choice for me now. I use this medium on my paintings and coating my sculptures."

      Rodgers uses polymer clay called "Super Sculpey" for my figures and bobble heads. The bobble heads are popular with some the Indy Car drivers.

      Rodgers says, "I like to illustrate books. Two books came out two years ago. The first was called "I" Is for Indy. It is an A-Z book for kids, to teach them about the history of the Indy 500. The book was written by IMS radio Chief Announcer, Mike King. I illustrated the book from front to back cover." The second book was titled The Many Faces Of Old Glory. This book was written by Vane Scott.

      Rodgers enjoys painting miniatures. Instead of canvas; he uses bottle caps and guitar picks to paint on. Country Weekly magazine did an article on his guitar picks, and the Indianapolis 500 Yearbook did an article on the bottle caps.

      This year Rodgers has been asked by DHK Promotions, to make a few trophies for the Action Track. They are, one of a kind, sculptures.

On Display: Pictured is "Billy Reed" (above) by John Rodgers.

      Photography is Rebecca Lynch's medium of choice. She has studied at Vincennes University, Ball State and earned an Associates of Science in May 2000, Vincennes University and A Bachelor of Fine Arts Ball State University.

      Lynch's series "Abandoned & Forgotten" is scheduled for exhibition in the Bicentennial Art Center & Museum, Paris, Illinois in 2010. "The Abandoned & Forgotten series came about when I started taking an interest in the old, run down buildings in the area. What I find interesting is the new shapes and textures the buildings take on after they have fallen and started to decay. I then started to notice, and photograph, other objects that had been abandoned as well. I wanted the images to be in black & white with a sepia tone. I want the viewer to see the shapes and textures without the distraction of color."

      Lynch has received numerous awards for her work including two first, second and third place awards at the Clark County Fair. Honorable mention; 29th photography show, Romantic Traditions and 2008 Blackhawk Park Exhibit.



Many of The Wabash Valley Art Guild members' work may be viewed at the Raven Gallery at 817 Ohio Street.

Thanks to Ruthann Brady & The Tribune-Star.

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