The Scribe

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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The Mirror

As I wiped the steam from the glass, I saw a man from my past. He wasn't a stranger, nor a friend, just a man at his wit's end.

I looked upon his aging face; there was no sense of warm embrace. The scars of discontent were the only things that left their trace.

He stared at me with glassy eyes, yearning for a compromise. For once he thought that I was wise, as if I could prevent his demise.

To end the depression and rage, to remove the lies that fill his mind. To snuff out the doubt that clouds his head, so he would sleep well again.

"She's never coming back," he said to me, as if some sort of remedy- an antidote for the soul, to give me some peace of mind.

As I gripped the porcelain sink, just yearning for another drink. My knuckles whitened, with anger taking over me; I became truly frightened. My body was rife with strife, to this haunting image before me. His words, so sharp, they cut through me like a knife.

I thought to myself what should I do? "Smash the glass," I said, "Dispel this menacing specter. So I may sip on numbing nectar."

But this will do me no good. For those broken scattered pieces across the sink and floor, will remind me of nothing more than a shattered reflection of my life.

He uttered: "It's time to make a change, to heal, to stand, and fight. Take little steps, day by day; it will not happen overnight."

As I stand before the mirror, gazing upon my own reflection, I say, "Maybe the man in the mirror is right."

• R.L. Franks III [email protected]

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A Lesson in Perspective

With each snow season I'm reminded of a winter drive of several years ago. And a late-May drive of 1985.

I once worked with an apprentice named Tony who had asked me for a ride home on a frigid winter day. Because the roads were freshly paved with thick ice, I drove like I was the grandmother of Moses when I pulled into the mobile home park where Tony lived. And we continued toward his lot.

What was the posted speed limit, maybe 15? Given the extreme icy conditions, I was below that. It was a slow-motion scene from Driving Miss Daisy as we idled along at a speed somewhere between sundial and dial-up Internet. We were traveling in a straight line on a straight, flat road. No curves. No swerves. No hills. Yet I managed to lose control of my car.

I didn't have time to think or react. Before I could draw a breath and scream like a four-year-old with a bee sting, before I could even blink, we did a complete 360-degree spin and continued straight on that narrow strip of ice lined with mailboxes. This happened in the early 90s. As a lifelong auto racing fan, I'd like to think my driving was inspired by Danny Sullivan's dramatic "spin and win" at the 1985 Indianapolis 500. His was like something out of Hollywood...without Miss Daisy.

At lap 120 of 200, Sullivan dove hard into turn one and passed Mario Andretti on the inside at more than 200 MPH. But Sullivan pinched his car down so low that it lost grip and spun. To keep from backing into the outside retaining wall, Sullivan stomped the gas and did a complete 360. He didn't hit anything. Didn't stall the engine. Didn't stop the car. And he only lost one position—to Andretti. Sullivan gripped the steering wheel, pointed it straight, kept driving, and would go on to win what was the biggest race in the world. True story. Pull up the video on YouTube.

There I was with Tony, a few years later, doing a Danny Sullivan—at a slightly slower speed. Like Sullivan, I didn't hit anything. Didn't scrape a mailbox. Didn't ding a parked car. It is also important to note that no snowmen were harmed in my spin or in the writing of this article. My car's frontend pointed itself straight, and I kept going.

In his post-race interview, Danny Sullivan said he didn't feel scared when he spun his car; he felt mad at himself. He had just taken the lead and was giving it up and probably throwing away the race by threatening to crash. When I was spinning with Tony, I felt mad at myself, too. And embarrassed.

But Tony had a different view from the passenger seat. While I felt immediate shame, Tony began to cheer like I was Sullivan at Indy. "Dude, you're the man! You did a 360 and didn't even panic! You just spun and kept goin'! That was awesome, dawg!"

I shrugged in embarrassment. Who loses a car to a pirouette at 9 MPH while driving in a straight line? What a blunder!

Be that as it may, Tony didn't see the blunder; he saw the recovery. He didn't focus on the spin itself; he was impressed that I didn't overreact. I felt that I had goofed, but Tony felt that I remained in control. He emphasized my not hitting anything. He underscored that we didn't stop. Didn't

even scrub off any speed. I suppose Mr. Sullivan would be impressed.

I think about that incident every winter—not because of my awesome Danny Sullivan-like driving skills, but because of the lesson in perspective. I remember Tony's thoughtfulness.

What do we see when someone makes a blunder? Are we cynical? How do we treat people if they lose grip or go off course for a moment? Where is our focus? On the flubs? On the mistakes? On the imperfections? Or do we look at the positives and extend grace like Tony did? Choosing kindness will position us in the other seat. It offers a different perspective from what we might have had otherwise.

Email: [email protected] Visit his Website: reachinword.com

David Senecal: Capturing the Unseen Through Abstraction

"...he experiences painting as a form of dance, allowing the work to guide him toward discovering unique visual worlds..."

• Columbus-based abstract artist
• Works in acrylic, oil, digital, and video
• Blends structure with spontaneity

saatchiart.com/Senecal

@davidasenecal

From Local Galleries to International Stages

Senecal’s work has gained recognition across national and international venues. Notable exhibitions and collections include:

• Featured artist at Saatchi Art, selected by Chief Curator and Director Rebecca Wilson
• Greater Columbus Convention Center (permanent collection)
• Zanesville Museum of Art
• Radian Gallery (San Francisco)
• Labocine Art and Science Collective (Paris, France)
• Ross Art Museum at Ohio Wesleyan University

Exploring Chaos and Introspection

In an era of ubiquitous digital documentation, Senecal takes a deliberately different approach to creating art. Rather than drawing from external observations, he embraces a more introspective method that partners with chance and chaos. His process involves disconnecting from the constant stream of mechanical imagery to access deeper, subconscious realms of creativity.

A Life Shaped by Art and Science

David Senecal is a Columbus-based artist who has returned to painting after dedicating 20 years to digital arts. He holds a degree in studio art from Michigan State University (1998) and enriched his artistic perspective through studies in Catalunya, Spain.

His unique artistic vision was shaped by his parents – an army mechanic father and a self-taught biologist mother – who instilled in him an appreciation for both technological innovation and natural wonder. Currently, Senecal works across multiple mediums, including acrylic, watercolor, oil, digital, and video media.

Painting as a Journey Beyond Reality

Senecal describes his artistic process as a deeply immersive experience that often transcends conventional painting. He notes a distinct parallel between his creative state and Vodun ceremonies, where practitioners speak of being “ridden” by spirits. When working, particularly while listening to music, he experiences painting as a form of dance, allowing the work to guide him toward discovering unique visual worlds that exist beyond everyday reality.

David observes that his works follow their own internal logic and formal arrangements, creating a distinct visual language that he continues to explore and document. This approach allows him to contribute new perspectives to the visual world rather than simply reproducing what already exists.

Painting the Human Form - Chris Benavides

A Lifelong Journey in Art & Illustration

Chris began his artistic journey at just 17 when he was accepted into the Cooper School of Art in Cleveland, Ohio. Upon graduating, he was recruited by American Greetings Corporation where he enjoyed a nearly 40-year career as a professional designer and illustrator, working in various departments and capacities. While his commercial art career was rich and fulfilling, in recent years Chris has felt called to express his artistic vision more personally through fine art.

• Representational oil painter
• American Greetings illustrator
• Portrait artist in Avon Lake, Ohio

chrisbenavidesfineart.com @chris_benavides_artist

"My hope is that I might create art that may move others..."

Workshops & Mentorship

Beyond his professional education in commercial illustration, Chris has continuously developed his fine art aesthetic through workshops with notable instructors including Michael Malm, Bryce Cameron Liston, Stanka Kordic, Jeffrey Watts, Zhaoming Wu, Daniel Gerhartz, and Johanna Harmon, whom he considers a personal friend and mentor.

Shows, Collections & Commissions

Chris' work has been featured in numerous juried local and national exhibitions. American Greetings has purchased his paintings for their permanent corporate collection, and he regularly accepts private commissions.

Bringing the Human Form to Life

Chris Benavides is a representational painter primarily focused on the human form and images that celebrate the beauty of creation. Working in oil using the direct method, he seeks to create evocative art that connects with viewers. Chris states: “Through my long experience and love of the human form and the desire to convey its beauty in an evocative manner, my hope is that I might create art that may move others, either in ways similarly to how I have been moved personally, or in ways unique to the viewer.”

Finding Beauty in Simplicity & Creation

In Chris's own words: “There is so much to the created order. A truly limitless array of visual imagery which tantalizes and captures the imagination. From a simple, lyrical line, to the turn of a head, to the gesture of a wind-blown sapling, and which, I believe, point to the One who is the source of all beauty. For me, simple honesty is all that is required. No hidden meaning, or manifestos. Just a simple, honest reaction and response to what I see. These images and icons prompt me to share the Imago Dei that I see around me and which point to the ultimate artist and restorer, or repairer of cracked icons, of which we all are in some measure.”

A New Chapter in Music for Singer-Songwriter Kendra Louy

Songwriter Shaping Her Own Sound From Karaoke to Rock Songs Singer in her new band KENDRA!

Early Beginnings: A Young Voice Finding Its Way

At just five or six years old, Kendra’s musical journey began in an unlikely venue: karaoke nights at the American Legion. Born into a family where music was a constant presence, she found herself surrounded by performers from both sides of her family tree—they are the more musically inclined side of my family,” Kendra explains. “Whereas my dad’s side, they just always were listening to music.”

These early karaoke sessions became a family affair, with Kendra following in the footsteps of her singing relatives. Her signature warm-up song? “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.” But she quickly graduated to more challenging material, developing a repertoire that included Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock and Roll,” and Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”—songs that she still performs today.

The Band That Changed Everything

When Kendra was approaching 18, the band saw their opportunity. “You’re gonna be 18, which means you can get into the bars as our singer. You should start practicing with us,” they told her. After a formality of an audition—“We already knew you’re gonna pass”—Kendra found herself fronting a band of experienced musicians ranging from 40 to 70 years old.

The experience proved transformative. “I’m way stronger than I was when they first let me into the band,” Kendra reflects. “They are the reason that I am a strong vocalist, a strong performer. I have them to thank a lot for sure.”

KENDRA: A New Chapter

Now, at 20 years old, Kendra is ready to make her mark with original music. Her new band, simply called KENDRA! (with an exclamation mark), represents a shift from covers to original material. The group consists of members closer to her own age—all between 20 and 24—and brings musicians from different aspects of her life.

The band’s formation was organic, drawing from various connections: a guitarist she met through music school, a drummer she knew through D&D sessions, and a bassist she met at a local venue. Currently a four-piece, Kendra hopes to add a second guitarist, expressing interest in finding another female musician to balance the group’s dynamics.

Looking Forward: Two Bands, One Dream

Kendra maintains a careful balance between her two musical projects. Kall Me Kendra continues to perform and secure gigs, including upcoming performances at major venues. However, she’s clear about her priorities: “...My main goal is to write original music and be an artist.”

Kall Me Kendra is preparing for a summer debut, though she’s careful about making premature announcements. “I want to be able to do a professional photo shoot before I put anything out there,” she explains. “I want them all to have a face. I know bands sometimes focus on the front person, but I want people to know my band mates.”

The Road Ahead

As Kendra prepares to launch her original music project, she maintains a grounded perspective on fame and success. “I don’t want to be somebody that people pee—their pants over,” she laughs. “I just want people to respect my music that I make and respect me as a person.”

With both bands active and new opportunities on the horizon, Kendra’s musical journey continues to evolve. Her cover band members have given her their blessing to pursue bigger opportunities when they arise, understanding that her original music project may eventually take precedence. As she puts it, they know “this is what you’re gonna do.”

Arts Events to Know in March

Trailblazing Women of Country

March 25, 7:30 p.m

Tickets start $36

Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas

Trailblazing Women of Country will entertain and inspire audiences during this pivotal moment in our nation's history, featuring soloists, featuring Grammy® nominee, Rissi Palmer, and Nashville based singer, Kristina Train, supported by a 5-member all-female band.

RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles

March 12, 7:30 p.m

Tickets start $36

Aronoff Center, Procter & Gamble Hall, Cincinnati

RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles is an electrifying concert experience celebrating the timeless music of the legendary fab four. With note-for-note precision, this mind-blowing performance transports you back to the iconic eras of Sgt. Pepper and Magical Mystery Tour, along with all your favorite hits.

Porgy and Bess – The Miles Davis Album

March 15, 8:00 p.m

Tickets start $29 (Discounted for UToledo students)

Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle

Originally released as a studio album in 1959, Miles Davis's Porgy and Bess showcases visionary arrangements of George Gershwin's 1935 opera, crafted by Davis himself in collaboration with Gil Evans. This interpretation resonates deeply with listeners, delivering a profound musical experience.

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In Full Bloom - Mixed Media by Asia Armour

• Mixed-media collage artist
• Floral installation creator
• Photography storyteller

artamourstudio.com @artamourstudio

A Visionary in Mixed Media

Asia Armour is a multifaceted mixed media collage artist and photographer, known for crafting immersive and evocative art experiences that intertwine photography, collage, and intricate floral installations. As the creative force behind Art Amour Studio, she has carved a unique niche in the art world over the past eight years, developing artwork that weaves together storytelling and visual poetry.

Art as Connection & Reflection

Through her art, Asia aims to inspire connection, spark imagination, and bring her stories to life in a way that's both personal and universal. Her pieces evoke deep emotions and provoke thoughtful reflection, offering a space for introspection and conversation. "Whether through large-scale collages, dynamic photography, or immersive installations, I aim to create art that evokes wonder, provokes thought, and fosters a deeper connection between the viewer and the world around them," she states. Through Art Amour Studio, Asia continues to push creative boundaries to deliver artwork that captivates and inspires, bringing the richness of her creative vision to life and sharing it with a growing community of art lovers and collectors.

Blending Traditional & Digital Craftsmanship

Asia's creative process blends traditional and digital techniques. When creating her collage work, she follows a meticulous process that involves cutting hundreds of flower photos to create backgrounds for her stories. She collects various materials including paper, fabric, found objects, and digital elements, then plans, arranges, and rearranges until achieving the desired result. Her work reflects a seamless fusion of artistic vision, technical expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. She possesses strong skills in: Photography, including composition, lighting, and camera operation. Image editing using software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

Icons & Inspirations in Her Work

Asia cites Andy Warhol as one of her favorite artists, admiring how he used various mediums to create his extensive body of work. She adopts a similar approach in her creative process, striving to utilize her imagination to its fullest potential. "Inspired by the organic elegance of flowers, trees, and other elements of nature, I use these motifs to infuse my work with playfulness and depth," Asia explains.

Exploring Identity, Nature & Memory

Asia's work is a celebration of transformation, memory, and connection. She meticulously weaves intricate narratives using photography, collage, and floral symbolism to explore themes of growth, legacy, and the passage of time. Her artistic practice incorporates various mediums to craft pieces that celebrate natural beauty and evoke emotion. "My journey as an artist began with a desire to see more representations of beauty that resonate with me—depicting narratives and faces that reflect my identity," Asia shares. Her work often delves into the cycles of nature, using the ephemeral quality of flowers to mirror the fleeting moments of human experience.

Transforming Spaces with Public Art

Asia's work has garnered significant attention through prominent public installations and print media features. In Summer 2023, Asia transformed the Geis Terrace at the Cleveland Botanical Garden with her installation "Art In Bloom," where she arranged 1,400 flowers into a breathtaking living display. This followed her successful work at Fresh Fest Cleveland, where she created "the Puzzled Garden," a captivating "living mural" at Riddall Farms during the summers of 2022 and 2023.

Rachael Hancock's Heart of Fold: Origami with Heart

• Transforms paper into elegant, dimensional art
• Inspired by moments from life
• Available in local and online markets

The Process & Inspiration

"Origami is more than just paper folding—it's an exploration of form, balance, and storytelling. Using high-quality, colorful papers sourced from around the world, I hand-fold each creation with meticulous care. My process often involves experimenting with textures, colors, and modular designs to bring unique dimension to my work.

My inspiration comes from the small moments of everyday life: what tv and movies I'm watching; my career as an attorney; my two cats; and all the happy little accidents around us. I love working with clients to decorate parties, brighten up households, round out jewelry collections or bring a touch of origami to weddings! Anything and everything can be customized to your vision!"

About Heart of Fold

"What began as a childhood hobby quickly turned into a passion. After a lifetime of folding, and 5 years in business, I'm still fascinated by how a single fold can completely change a piece of paper into something fun, intricate, and mesmerizing. After sharing my creations with friends and family, I realized just how much people love handmade, meaningful items. That's when Heart of Fold was born. Heart of Fold celebrates the intricate beauty of folding, where every crease tells a story. From elegant paper flower bouquets to whimsical heart garlands and intricate earrings, each piece is crafted with patience, precision, and artistry."

Where to Find My Work

"You can explore Heart of Fold's latest collections on my Etsy shop (etsy.com/shop/heartoffoldbyrachael) and follow my journey on Instagram (@heartoffold), where I share behind-the-scenes looks at new designs, custom projects, and market events. I also showcase my work at local artisan markets and am excited to connect with wholesalers interested in carrying unique, handmade paper art. For inquiries, collaborations, or custom orders, feel free to reach out—I'd love to create something just for you!"

Jennifer Bak: A Photographer with a Performer's Eye

• Toledo-based visual and kinetic artist
• Creates portraits with theatrical flair
• Explores fantasy and history in her work

[QR Code linking to jbakstudios.com] jbakstudios.com

[QR Code linking to Instagram @jbakstudios] @jbakstudios

Courting the Plague: Love and History in Art

The image shown above is a selection from her series "Courting the Plague" and is the story of two Plague Doctors meeting during the pandemic and falling in love. It references the 2020 COVID pandemic, the 1918 flu pandemic, and the bubonic plague.

Jennifer's Tools and Techniques

For her photographic art, Jennifer currently uses a Nikon Z-6 and prefers prime lenses. For this series, she used a Profoto B10 with gridded 4 ft Paul Buff Octabox. For certain images (one of which is included in this selection), she uses what she calls her "fever dream" lens – a Russian vintage Helios lens that she modified using a technique she learned online – cracking it open, flipping the first lens element backwards, and reassembling it.

"she uses what she calls her ‘fever dream’ lens"

Blending Myth, Dance, and Visual Art

Jennifer Bak is a Toledo-based visual and kinetic artist and performer, with a focus on creating visual narratives through photography, dance, and costuming. Mixing fine art and expression with action and activism, she draws inspiration her experiences growing up as a half-Korean, bisexual, goth/industrial, nerdy, artsy kid in love with mythology & fantasy in rural, small town Ohio. Her photo narratives range from classic portraiture to fantastical storytelling, much like her bellydance pieces range

Jennifer is the owner of J. Bak Studios, LLC, a portrait and creative fine art photography studio based in Toledo, Ohio. She is also with the Aegela Centers for Middle Eastern Dance as a bellydance performer and teacher, and fire eater/dancer.

Self-Discovery in the ‘Best Self’ Series

“In my ‘Best Self’ series, regular, everyday me gets a peek into my own mind and finds that the self I aspire to be is already in there, and in the last image, she invites me through to her world to join her. I also wanted to deliberately push back against the concept I’ve seen in a lot of media where the best or higher self is in white and looks traditionally angelic. My best self wears black, is goth/punk, wears spikes, and has horns.”

Athena Art Society Show at Black Swamp Arts Center

The Black Swamp Arts Council is excited to unveil its newly opened exhibit, the Athena Art Society Show!

Location The Black Swamp Arts Center, 210 N. Defiance St., Archbold, Ohio

Date January 29th to March 15th

Time Wednesdays-Fridays: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM Saturdays: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

"60 works of art from 24 talented female artists"

A Celebration of Women in the Arts

The exhibit will feature over 60 works of art from 24 talented female artists of the Athena Art Society. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of artistic expressions and mediums, showcasing the creativity and skill of these accomplished women.

"Meet the Artist" Special Event

A special "Meet the Artist" reception will be held on Saturday, March 15th, from noon to 2:00 PM. This event offers an excellent opportunity to meet and interact with the artists while enjoying light refreshments.

Join us in celebrating the exceptional talent and contributions of the Athena Art Society. For more information, please visit our website at www.blackswamparts.com or contact us at 419-966-039.

Honoring Over a Century of Artistic Excellence

Founded in 1903, the Athena Art Society is one of the oldest women's art organizations in the country. Based in Toledo, Ohio, the society has a rich history of supporting and encouraging women in all branches of the Fine Arts. Today, the organization continues to promote the visual arts and stimulate community engagement.

Tetyana Hubska's Art: A Reflection Nature, and Emotion

• Ukrainian-born artist
• Expresses self through multimedia creations
• Deeply inspired by nature

the-scribe.org/tetyana @tetyanahubska.art

Blending Traditional and Digital Techniques

Tetyana's work is grounded in her connection to nature, still life, and various subjects, with each medium informing her creative process differently. In her traditional media work, she utilizes oils, acrylics, watercolors, and graphite pencils to capture the intricate beauty of nature, botanical subjects, and still life. Her digital work consists of collages that explore emotional and psychological themes, offering a different dimension to her artistic expression.

Art as a Space for Reflection and Growth

Through her art, Tetyana aims to create work that resonates with viewers, inviting reflection and providing moments of beauty and insight amidst life's challenges. Her creative practice serves as both a personal and universal language—a way to process, reflect, and communicate complex emotions and ideas. As a self-taught artist who discovered her passion later in life, she hopes to inspire others to embrace art as a space for exploration, growth, and fearless expression regardless of when they begin their creative journey.

A Self-Taught Artist's Evolution in Expression

Ukrainian-born artist Tetyana began her artistic journey in 2020. Her development as an artist reflects both global events and personal experiences that have shaped her creative expression. Initially working with acrylics and oils, she focused on nature, seascapes, landscapes, architecture, and still life compositions. By late 2023, she incorporated watercolor into her repertoire, using it as a medium for emotional expression with precise technique. In 2024, Tetyana expanded into digital collage, exploring personal struggles, social dynamics, and philosophical questions through works that combine emotional content with psychological depth.

"I hope to inspire others to embrace art as a space for fearless expression."

Affiliations and Future Direction

As an active member of several arts organizations, including the Dublin Area Art League (DAAL), Ohio Art League, and the Association of Botanical Artists (ABA), Tetyana regularly participates in exhibitions across the USA and internationally. Looking ahead, she is committed to refining her watercolor techniques, drawing, and compositional skills to create works that resonate with viewers. As a self-taught artist who discovered her passion later in life, she hopes to inspire others to embrace art as a space for exploration, growth, and fearless expression regardless of when they begin their creative journey.

Shaped by Life's Journey

Significant life experiences have profoundly influenced Tetyana's artistic development. The global pandemic, her father's passing, and the war in Ukraine have all played crucial roles in shaping her work. These events have provided both an escape from reality and an emotional outlet for processing complex feelings, which is evident in the depth and sensitivity of her artistic creations. Tetyana shares "As a self-taught artist who discovered her passion later in life, I hope to inspire others to embrace art as a space for fearless expression."

Linda Shetzer - Art as a Second Chapter

Linda Shetzer

• Toledo Artists' Club board member
• Creates watercolor landmark cards
• Educator turned full-time artist

Professional Background

After a 30-year career as an elementary and early childhood educator, Linda Shetzer stepped out of the classroom in 2022 and into her home studio, embracing her second act as a full-time artist. She holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in education and now channels her lifelong passion for creativity into her artwork.

Linda's Exhibitions & Retail Locations

Her artwork can currently be found at For Keeps, Round N Round Gifts, Novel Blends, and JAMs in Tiffin. It has also been featured at Carey Shrine Gift Shop, Georgette's Coffee Shop, Grounds for Thought, and Madison Paul.

Active Roles in the Arts Community

Linda is an active member of the Toledo Artists' Club, serving on the executive board and as Gallery Co-Chair. She is also a member of the Bowling Green Arts Council and participated in its inaugural Community-Supported Arts (CSA) program. Her work is regularly exhibited in their galleries, and she takes part in Northwest Ohio art walks and festivals, including the Black Swamp Arts Festival (Wood County Invitational) and Wild About Art at the Toledo Zoo.

Atmospheric & Impressionistic Expressions

Linda specializes in atmospheric and impressionistic pieces, primarily working with watercolor and acrylic. She skillfully uses acrylic to capture light, shadow, and depth through texture, color choice, and layering techniques. Her watercolor work on cold-pressed paper allows for delicate layering, enhancing the depth and impact of her pieces. In addition to these mediums, she also explores collage, anthotypes, and gel plate printing.

Watercolor Cards with a Vintage Touch

Beyond paintings, Linda has expanded her art into a collection of cards featuring prints of her local watercolor landmarks, as well as a unique line of original watercolor cards she calls Love Notes. These delicate pieces are painted on vintage sheet music, transforming something old into something new and meaningful—spreading joy through art meant to be shared.

Supporting Art, Education & Sustainability

Beyond her personal artistic practice, Linda blends her love of art and education through her work at Scrap4Art, a creative reuse organization in Maumee, Ohio. She enjoys discovering the joy of transforming donated materials into new creations. She works in the shop, organizes artistic events, and encourages sustainability through creative exploration. Linda has also hosted classes at Scrap4Art, the BGAC ArtSpace, and the Toledo Artists' Club.

Chloe McEldowney: Vibrant Florals and Transformation

Columbus oil painter Exhibited nationally, multiple publications *Motherhood influences fragmented art

Expressive Floral Oil Paintings

Chloe creates vibrant oil paintings that unite fragments of gardens, memories, and emotions through distinct color palettes. Her work reflects on her dual identity as both painter and mother, employing an expressive style developed through her diverse artistic background. This style has been shaped by a decade-long art career that includes painting live portraits, teaching printmaking and painting workshops, and working in galleries. Education and Early Career. Chloe received her BFA in 2014 from the University of Dayton, where she was recognized with the Excellence in Visual Arts Award from the Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Ohio. During her studies, she was selected as a Dorothy & Bill Yeck College Artist Fellow through the Dayton Art Institute. After completing her education, she moved to various cities across the United States, taking advantage of different residencies and teaching opportunities throughout her journey.

Career & Artistic Growth

Her professional path included an internship at the Napa Valley Museum, a position as resident teaching artist at Prairie Center of the Arts in Illinois, and work as a resident artist at Access Arts in Missouri. In 2018, Chloe relocated to Wilmington, Delaware, where her talents were acknowledged with an Artist Fellowship through the Delaware Division of the Arts. Exhibitions and Recognition

Personal Reflections in Art

Following her son's birth, Chloe's painting process evolved as she adapted to new time constraints. This change led her to observe plants more intimately, noting their continuous growth and change throughout different times of day. She watched as leaves and flowers opened and closed with the rising and setting sun, as they wilted and drooped, then stood tall again after drinking from their roots. This observation provided comfort as she navigated the transformations in her child, body, and life.

Her current work explores the tensions between her roles as artist and mother, examining the conflicting needs for solitude and connection, self-sacrifice and self-care, and the complex emotions surrounding growth—both the excitement for what's new and the grief for what's lost. Her paintings create fragmented, disrupted environments that reflect her ongoing pursuit of understanding these dualities, lovingly crafted through this exploration.

National Exhibitions & Awards

Chloe's artwork has been featured in numerous exhibitions across the United States. Her paintings have graced the walls of Harman Projects in New York City, Arc Gallery in San Francisco, The Biggs Museum of American Art, Superfine Art Fair, The Dayton Art Institute, The Peoria Riverfront Museum, Anne Irwin Fine Art, Jen Tough Gallery, The Delaware Contemporary, Paradigm Gallery, Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, and many other prestigious venues. Her artistic journey has been highlighted in various publications including Create Magazine, New Visionary Magazine, and Clover + Bee Magazine. In 2022, she created artwork for the book cover of “Daughter of Man,” a collection of poetry by author LJ Sysko.

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Seraphia Christe: Eco-Friendly Art with Upcycled Elegance

• Self-taught artist from Gallipolis, OH
• Upcycled eclectic works of vibrant color
• Hosts creative classes for children and adults

secondwavecreations.com @secondwavecreations

Navigating a Life Through Creativity

"I've been creating since I was a child. I remember having a craft cabinet when I was very young. Beading was always a passion, as well as drawing. I would sell bracelets at lunch in middle school to save money for phone cards so I could call my mother. It was a source of grounding, joy, and safety for me then. In my adult life it also has brought the same therapeutic aspect, and I realized I wanted to share my creative expression with others and emanate that same love with my work. I decided in 2020 to leave my healthcare career in Occupational Therapy to pursue my arts full time, allowing myself to live a life more in line with my desires to be home with my son, travel, and live life at my own pace. My role as a visionary and creative innovator developed during a harsh childhood. My imagination and artistic expression grew with fun stories, games, songs, and experiences I created with my siblings to see us through."

Upcycled Treasures

Seraphia's expression is a collective of repurposed material, vividly customized into functional pieces and displays. Her work highlights a mystical vibe of healing, transformation, nature and love.

“I love to paint in acrylic. The process of witnessing a painting unfold, a work of art on a blank canvas is inspiring. The ability to create emotion and different worlds with a paintbrush and some color is magical to me. As a multi-faceted artist, my work is always evolving and growing.

I originally started with painting canvas and designing jewelry. I am known for my environmental/sustainability work as a lot of my creations are crafted with secondhand/recycled pieces, my “upcycled treasures.” I love to reduce waste and take unwanted materials or items others see as trash and breath life back into them creatively. Second Wave offers a collection of mindfully crafted works, intentional jewelry, functional art and décor, stained glass, suncatchers, terracotta art, plants, original paintings, and so much more. My art is inspired by nature and the beautiful flow of life itself. As the seasons shift, my work evolves. Second Wave aims to ethically source materials, often breathing life back into reclaimed and recycled pieces, always keeping Mother Earth in mind.”

Brushstrokes of Unity

"Community is one of the drives for my work. Art connects people."

Several community murals were established by the hands of Seraphia and her brand Second Wave Creations, with the collaborations of community members and events supporting local art initiative. “I have installed a mural at Hope Homestead General Store in Thurman Ohio. This was a collaborative creation during one of our Let’s Grow Together Community Days. Families and individuals came with their loved ones and made their mark in a paint by number style.” A second mural can be found in the community garden in Rio Grande, Ohio. Inspired by the seasons, Seraphia hosts children and adult creative classes throughout the year, teaching different forms of mediums.

A Creative Sanctuary

“I have an in-home studio which I mostly create from. It is full of what I call “creative chaos”. Inspiration and ideas fill the space with paints, beads, canvas, and a vast collection of recycled pieces to create with. I also love to create in nature. I am blessed to live in a rural area with land to sit outside and create the day away. I often sit in our “peaceful cove” a small area of our yard surrounded by shrubs and pines or around our koi pond and waterfall. Nature is my biggest inspiration; it comes naturally to be absorbed in my environment while creating.”

Sunshine Studios: Opportunities for Artists with Disabilities

Sunshine Studios provides employment opportunities for artists with disabilities, fostering creativity and independence!

sunshinestudio.org

Location 305 Conant St, Maumee, OH 43537

Hours Mon-Sat 10AM-4PM

What is Sunshine Studios?

Sunshine Studios is a workplace for artists with various disabilities. Artists are placed through their SAS (similar to a caseworker) who helps find appropriate employment opportunities. The studio functions as an intermediary to prepare artists for eventual employment in the general community. Larry, who manages the studio, met with The Scribe to detail what exactly Sunshine Studios is, and how it makes a positive impact on the community.

Community Classes and Partnerships

Sunshine Studios offers various community classes including five-week wheel throwing courses, open studio hours for people with or without experience, and ready-to-paint pieces for families and children. The studio hosts team building activities for local businesses, projects for schools like Miami Valley Country Day School, activities for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and summer camps for daycares. They currently have an intern from Bowling Green University. A quilting guild meets at the studio weekly, creating quilts that are sold with proceeds benefiting Sunshine Studios.

A Fully Equipped Studio for Artistic Growth

The studio is well-equipped with nine pottery wheels, a slab roller, wall extruder, hand extruders, kilns, and sewing machines. Their space includes display and retail areas for their artists' work. The front area features consignment pieces from outside artists, and they maintain a gift shop area with fair trade items similar to Ten Thousand Villages. Due to health considerations for the artists with disabilities, they use commercial glazes rather than creating their own, which would require special ventilation and safety equipment.

Unique Creations: Ceramics, Textiles, and More

The primary focus at Sunshine Studios is ceramics, but they also offer canvas painting, glasswork, and textile work including weaving on looms. Their most popular products are garden flowers, which are their biggest seller with hundreds sold annually. They also create distinctive horse hair pottery, formed by burning horse hair onto ceramic pieces, which is uncommon in the eastern part of the country. Other products include bird feeders, birdhouses, and rag rugs made from donated materials. Their product offerings change seasonally, so there's always a reason to stop by.

Daily Programs for Artists

The studio has two groups of artists working on different schedules. Higher functioning individuals work in the front clay rooms for 3 hours per day, while those in the “Creative Center” in the back work for 1.5 hours daily. Artists punch a time clock and receive payment every two weeks at a flat rate rather than on commission. Some artists are fairly independent, living on their own with minimal support. Larry mentioned one artist named Melissa who has been with the program since it began in a small supply room, and who has developed significant skills over time.

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Who is The Scribe's Mascot?

Seshat is an ancient Egyptian goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and writing. She appears as a woman wearing a distinctive headdress featuring a seven-pointed star or flower and what resembles horns or antlers. As the divine scribe and record-keeper, Seshat fulfills several important roles in Egyptian mythology.

She serves as the goddess of writing, record keeping, accounting, and mathematics, making her the patron of scribes, libraries, and archives. Seshat is considered the inventor of writing and is responsible for recording the reigns of pharaohs and their achievements.

Seshat was nearly lost to time, and has no real art of her left since Ancient Egypt.