Student to Gallery Manager - Anastasia Wagner

Apollo Press

The Scribe Ohio's Nonprofit Arts Newspaper

The Scribe is a FREE monthly arts publication that is created and published under the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Apollo Press.

The Scribe is the first Ohio-wide arts newspaper, providing arts coverage and making art accessible to everyone.

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Jeffrey Darah - Publisher and Editor 419-470-9489 [email protected]

Dylan Sarieh - Manager and Editor 567-277-5659 [email protected]

Professional Service and Leadership

Anastasia has also been involved in the arts community as a Guest Juror for the Toledo Artists' Club, past Judge for the categories of Jewelry and Sculpture in the Crosby Festival of the Arts at Toledo Botanical Garden (Ohio), and as a member of the Hyter Portrait Group. As a former Independent Member of the Toledo Federation of Art Societies, she volunteered for 3 years as Exhibition Committee Chair. She is a past Recording Secretary and the current Vice President for the non-profit women's arts organization, the Athena Art Society.

Public Art and Exhibition History

Anastasia has fulfilled public art commissions, including a mural installed at the Main Branch of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library (Ohio). She is a frequent contributor to juried and group exhibitions such as Dream or Nightmare at SCENE Metrospace (Lansing, Michigan) in 2016, Undisclosed at Toledo School for the Arts (Ohio) in 2018, 2019 and 2022, INTER/STATE at River East Gallery (Toledo) in 2025, as well as numerous exhibitions at The University of Toledo Center for the Visual Arts, College of Engineering and UT Medical Center, for which she won multiple scholarships and awards.

Anastasia Wager

• BFA graduate managing 20 North Gallery Toledo
• Accomplished muralist and exhibition artist since 2013
• Creates portraits blended with floral imagery

See more now!

the-scribe.org/anastasia

Education and Early Career

Anastasia Wagner received her B.F.A. with a concentration in painting and drawing from The University of Toledo (Ohio) in 2018. She began her professional involvement in the arts as an Apprentice for Young Artists At Work through The Arts Commission (Toledo, Ohio). She currently serves as Gallery Manager at 20 North Gallery in Toledo.

Local Arts Engagement

She has participated in various arts festivals in Toledo including Artomatic 419 in 2013 and 2015 and the Mini Maker Faire at Momentum (Promenade Park, Toledo, Ohio) in 2018. Additionally, her work has been included in local arts organization exhibitions such as the Toledo Artists' Club's Portraits, People and Pets Show (through which she received an Honorable Mention in 2023) and numerous Athena Art Society juried and non-juried shows. Twice she has exhibited at 20 North Gallery: the 2-person exhibit, Chalk, Paper, Scissors, and the anniversary exhibit, 20 North / 30 Years. In 2023, her still-life acrylic painting was accepted into Visual Elements 65 at Woodstock Art Gallery in Ontario (Canada).

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Blueprints of Nature - Bonnie O. App Cyanotypes

Bonnie O. App

Botanical and Cyanotype Artist

Focus on the Natural Environment

Group, Solo, Juried Exhibitions

See more now!

bonoappart.wixsite.com

@bonoapp

Creative Process and Natural Inspiration

"Creativity is an organic process. When I am surrounded by nature, whether is it walking through the woods, listening to the waves of the ocean, or even standing in the middle of a field with the butterflies and bees, I gain a sense of being unencumbered for that moment. It is in those moments that the creative process begins to unfold."

Artist's Philosophy

The intricate beauty of plants and the environment in which they grow is a gift. Each and every time Bonnie embarks on a new composition, she is led through a series of steps that provide her with a new and unique appreciation of the surrounding landscapes. It is Bonnie's hope that her art will encourage interest in and respect for the natural environment.

"Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants, Healthy People, Healthy Planet"

History and Process of Cyanotypes

Cyanotypes were first introduced in 1842 by the astronomer, scientist and botanist John Herschel to find a way of reproducing his notes. Anna Atkins, in 1843, used Herschel's unique process to make photogram prints by laying algae specimens directly on the photosensitive paper. After a decade, she eventually produced three volumes of her book: ‘Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions’. Her detailed cyanotypes of the specimens led her to be considered the first female photographer.

Cyanotype is one of the oldest photographic printing processes in the history of photography. Light sensitive chemicals are applied to paper. Items such as plants, objects, film negatives are placed on the surface. After exposing under a UV light source, the surface is developed with water and a blue and white image appears.

Early Career and Artistic Journey

Throughout her working life, first as a teacher, then as a commercial graphic artist, Bonnie's free time was often spent creating art using a variety of mediums. Eventually she began a journey into botanical art and became a member of the American Society of Botanical Artists. As a natural extension of traditional botanical art, she began to create cyanotype prints and is a supporting member of AlternativePhotography.com and the Ohio Art League.

The Incredible Medusa's Stones - Fluorescent Jewelry

Sarah Nidek-Eberle

• Childhood rock collector turned lapidary artist
• Creates fluorescent Lake Erie stone jewelry
• Repurposes Jeep paint into art

See more now!

medusas-stones.com

@medusasstones

Educational Career and Personal Growth

After becoming a certified scuba diver in 1996, Sarah pursued a career in education, earning a Master's Degree and teaching science in Florida. Despite facing workplace challenges as a woman in the early 2000s, she maintained her passion for education while exploring new opportunities in sales and marketing in Orlando.

Innovative Use of Industrial Materials

Drawing from her family's connection to the Jeep industry, Sarah works with "Jeepite" - accumulated paint overspray from Jeep manufacturing. She also incorporates Fordite, created from decades of tourist graffiti at the famous Route 66 landmark, into her artistic pieces.

From Childhood Rock Collector to Educator

Sarah's passion for rocks began in her childhood, with her father who encouraged her creative spirit. Growing up near Lake Erie in the 1980s, she spent time at the beach combing beaches for rocks and shells, developing an early connection to nature that would shape her future path.

Community Engagement and Education

Sarah continues her educational mission through various community initiatives. She hosts "Rocktology Live" sessions on Facebook and organizes events like the LLs "Hunt For The Cure" glow hunt, combining her artistic passion with charitable causes. She also works part-time with autistic children, using her rock collection to engage and inspire them.

Return to Rocks and Artistic Development

After moving back to Ohio and raising her family, Sarah reconnected with her love of rocks. She studied the shorelines of the Great Lakes and learned lapidary, eventually purchasing her own polishing machine. Her work now focuses on three main areas: rock-hounding, repurposing materials, and education.

Specialized Collections and Techniques

Sarah has developed expertise in collecting neolites (fluorescent sodalite) from Lake Erie's shores, working with approximately 15 different glowing rock matrices. Her ADHD harmonizes well with rock collecting, as each specimen presents unique characteristics. She particularly enjoys working with Scapolite stones, known for their yellow fluorescence.

Art is Fun at the YMCA

Pieces like this, created in the YMCA's art classes, showcase the program's success in helping students develop technical skills and artistic confidence in a supportive environment.

Wolf Creek YMCA

The Wolf Creek YMCA inspires creativity and connection through art programs for all skill levels.

It is the only location in the Toledo area offering adult art classes.

• Personalized Instruction
• Annual Art Show
• Relaxed Atmosphere

Learn more now!

www.ymcatoledo.org

An Annual Celebration of Creativity

The YMCA's adult art program has grown since its inception nearly a decade ago. Since its introduction three years ago, the YMCA's annual art show has aimed to provide participants with a professional platform to showcase their work. Every fall, participants have the opportunity to showcase work created throughout the year.

The program's foundation can be traced back to a former YMCA director who was an artist herself, and it is inspiring to see how her vision has grown into a program that nurtures creativity across the community.

Cultivating Creativity at the YMCA

The YMCA's art program provides opportunities for learners of all levels to explore drawing, painting, ceramics, and more. Supplies, including sketchbooks, pencils, paints, brushes, and canvases, are provided for all levels. The program focuses on foundational techniques like one-point perspective and sketching, gradually advancing to lessons on color mixing and creating tints.

With class sizes kept small, personalized instruction is also a key feature. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace, selecting subjects they are passionate about. Later classes incorporate music to foster a relaxed and creative atmosphere. Ceramics and children's art

"We offer so much, for so many people." – Linda Napier, Membership Director

Meet Heather: YMCA Art Instructor

Heather Nel, an art instructor at the Wolf Creek YMCA, holds both a B.A. in Art and a Master's in Education from Cardinal Stritch University. Passionate about connecting with people from all walks of life, she helps students uncover hidden talents, bringing pride to them, their families, and the community.

The YMCA: A Hub for Community Engagement and Growth

The YMCA is a cornerstone for fostering community, connection, and interests. From swim lessons for toddlers to fitness classes for adults, the YMCA provides inclusive activities that promote physical and personal growth. Artists benefit not only from art programs but also from diverse offerings like martial arts, dance, and pickleball, fostering well-being and connection.

To ensure accessibility, the YMCA offers financial aid to ensure cost isn't a barrier. Its 23 childcare locations support families, offering educational and recreational opportunities while parents pursue creative or wellness goals. With its welcoming environment and diverse programs, the YMCA is a vital resource for artists and the broader community alike.

Breaking the Rules of Blue: Janelle Lorenzen's Cyanotype Art

Janelle Lorenzen

• Toledo Photographer specializing in cyanotype prints
• Work shown at Toledo Museum
• BFA Photography graduate from CCAD

See more now!

From Traditional Techniques to Digital Mastery

"I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from the Columbus College of Art and Design. While at CCAD, I studied traditional wet darkroom techniques, antique and alternative photographic processes, and contemporary digital photography techniques along with core art and design principles area."

A Life Rooted in Art and Family

"I am first, and most importantly, a mom. My husband, Aaron, and I live in Sylvania, OH. We have a busy 10 year old daughter and two dogs. Between school runs and driving my daughter to her many extra-curricular activities I squeeze in time to make art in my home studio, or sometimes in my backyard. In addition I enjoy gardening, where I grow many of the plants I use as subjects in my work. I also love attending many of the wonderful local theatre, dance, and musical performances in the Toledo area."

"The result of this process is a one-of-kind original art print"

Creating Cyanotypes: From Garden to Art

"The simplest approach I use to produce an image with cyanotype is a cameraless contact print called a photogram which I make by simply arranging objects, typically plants from my garden, on the sensitized paper before exposing it to sunlight. The result of this process is a one-of-kind original art print that cannot be replicated."

The cyanotype printing process is simple yet versatile and I am able to achieve a variety of effects with careful manipulation of the materials. Variations can be achieved with how the cyanotype solution is applied. Pouring or spraying the chemicals irregularly, introducing other ingredients, or exposing while wet can manipulate results. This process deliberately disrupts the controlled and predictable traditional cyanotype process and introduces adventurous, rule-breaking and experimentation which produces unpredictable and serendipitous results in a greater variety of tones and textures."

Botanical Toning and Beyond: Elevating Cyanotypes

"I also enjoy experimenting with different fine art papers to achieve further variations in my results. Some of my cyanotype prints are further manipulated by a toning process, where the blue color of the finished cyanotype print is tinted or altered using botanicals. And finally, I love to further enhance some of my images with gouache, watercolor, and metallic pigments."

Crafting Art with Nature's Inspiration

"After earning my degree I spent time photographing families, kids and pets and creating fine art photography inspired by nature and the beautiful Toledo Metroparks. My work has been shown in many exhibitions in the Toledo area including Artomatic 419, Toledo Area Artists exhibition at the Toledo Museum of Art, and Momentum Festival. Recently I have rekindled my love for alternative photographic processes such as cyanotypes. In addition to photography I enjoy encaustic painting and monoprinting. Whatever medium I happen to be using, my work is often inspired by nature."

The Cyanotype Process: A Timeless Photographic Art Form

"My most recent work consists of making cyanotypes, one of the oldest photographic printing processes in the history of photography. The distinctive feature of the print is its shade of cyan blue which is a result of the emulsion being exposed to ultraviolet light.

A cyanotype is relatively easy to create since a traditional darkroom is not required. The process uses a light-sensitive solution, which is brushed onto paper in dim lighting. The subject or photographic negative is placed on top of the coated paper and then they are exposed to ultraviolet light, usually from the sun. After exposure, the image is developed by washing the paper in water. The parts that were exposed to ultraviolet light turn Prussian blue while the unexposed solution is washed away and the white color of the paper remains."

Kay Weprin: Layers of Abstract Reality

Kay Weprin

• Abstract mixed-media artist using cold wax
• Twenty-year art educator in Toledo
• World traveler inspiring intuitive layered works

Learn more now! the-scribe.org/kay

Kay's decorated and cozy living room, filled to the brim with wonderful works of the past.

Exhibition & Professional Practice

Her work is currently represented by Hudson Gallery and has been shown at 20 North Gallery. She approaches her art professionally, working in series and actively seeking to sell her pieces. Kay was also previously president of Athena Art Society and maintained a studio in downtown Toledo near 20 North Gallery. She participates in outdoor painting sessions with other artists, noting how her abstract interpretations often differ dramatically from more realistic renderings of the same scenes.

Artist Background & Early Years

Kay's journey into art took an unconventional path. Despite having no formal art education in high school, she became involved through set design. While studying elementary education in college, an art education course sparked her interest in pursuing art further. She went on to earn a degree in mixed media, with a particular focus on printmaking. One of her early instructors notably advised her never to use black and white again, leading to color becoming a significant element in her work.

Teaching Career & Impact

For over two decades, Kay served as an art educator at Washington Local Schools. She was fortunate to have a spacious classroom that doubled as her studio after 20 North Gallery sold their building. While following the required curriculum, she had the freedom to incorporate her passion for mixed media, photography, and printmaking into her teaching. Her influence as an educator is evident - she mentions that the current Community Director at the Toledo Museum of Art was once her student.

Personal Life & Influences

Travel has significantly influenced Kay's work - she has visited all seven continents, with these experiences providing visual inspiration for her art. She has two children: one who worked as a sports writer before moving into marketing, and another who became a dentist. Her grandchildren also play a role in her creative process - she collaborates with her grandson, who is studying Naval Engineering at Michigan, on titling pieces. Her granddaughter has shown artistic talent as well, recently receiving recognition in the Scholastic Art Awards. Despite facing health challenges, including hip replacement surgery, Kay continues to adapt her artistic practice, even switching hands while working to create different marks and maintain her creative output.

Many years ago, Kay wrote articles for the SchoolArts magazine, an academic periodical that's for art educators.

A wooden abstraction dances with color, weaving primary hues through space in an intricate sculptural ballet.

Artistic Process & Materials

Kay's current work heavily features cold wax, a medium she began experimenting with during the quarantine period. Her mixed media approach combines various materials including oil pastels, acrylic markers, colored pencils, and handmade paper. She works in layers, often starting with basic marks and building up abstract forms. Nature serves as her initial inspiration, but she allows herself to venture into her own "reality," creating works that invite multiple interpretations. Her process is intuitive, and she often works on several pieces simultaneously.

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