Water-colorist, Roberta Schiavi will have her work featured in the Griffing Gallery of the Kallet Civic Center, 159 Main St., Oneida, through the month of October.
The artist recently shared her personal influences and inspiration:
“I loved drawing at an early age and have always been interested in the beauty that surrounds me. Working with my hands and creating new things has always made me happy. My mother said I inherited my talent from my grandfather.
“In my early years, living in Massachusetts, I loved the colonial buildings, gardens, and lakes that surrounded me. I remember watching slide shows of my uncle’s trips throughout Europe and being amazed by the architecture of the museums and churches. Drawing and gardening have been my favorite pastimes throughout the years while raising my family.
“After moving to Utica at the age of 10, my parents signed me up for art courses at Munson-Williams-Proctor Art Institute. I have been a student there for 50-plus years. The three greatest artists that influenced my life were my high school art teacher, Mr. Countryman and artists Edward Christiana and Ralph Murray. I’ve taken many classes, with numerous other artists, over the years. I studied fine arts in Boston and later received my Graphic Design degree from MVCC. I have also enjoyed many years of painting with local artist friends and with the Mountain Air Painters, a plane air group in Old Forge.
“Art has always been my escape and has brought me much satisfaction. I love the challenge of learning something new and creating beautiful artwork for people to enjoy.”
Schiavi’s paintings will be on display from Oct. 2 through 27. The public is cordially invited to meet the artist at an open reception Monday, Oct. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Griffing Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, Monday through Friday, and by appointment. Call 315-363-8525 for more information.