Contributed by Michelle Cornelius
I’m a valley artist that has been painting and showing in venues from Willow to Anchorage. Just now entering my latest venue at Houston Lodge. Houston Lodge is up and going again. Best burgers in the valley. I’m showing there at this time. Really glad this restaurant is up and running. It’s my pleasure to have my art hung in this historic venue.
I paint in oils, but have won awards for and taught workshops in charcoal, graphite, watercolor, colored pencil, soft pastel and acrylics. I enjoyed teaching an oil workshop in September for Valley Fine Arts Association at their annual fall retreat in big lake this year. Also, I am the venue coordinator for the Valley Arts Alliance for mostly Palmer venues.
On Facebook I manage the Alaska FB Plein Air Group. This group meets and paints in Matsu valley . We try to meet at least a few times in spring, summer and fall, weather permitting.
Entering my sixth year as Alaska state fair superintendent for art. This position is extremely rewarding labor. Enjoy helping entrants put out their best work, professionally prepared and ready to hang art.
The subjects of my art are generally animals and often Alaskan animals. I also like to paint nocturnes (nighttime paintings) with neon signage and our fabulous state in Pleine Aire (outside).
At present, I’m looking forward to a long, dark winter. It’s always bright in my studio and much painting is forecast this winter!
