Staff writer
Those who eat lunch at Marion Senior Center will be dining in style, surrounded by the work of area artists that will be hanging in the center until Friday.
Bluestem Art Guild, made up of 15 artists from Marion, Morris, Lyon, and Chase counties, began in the early ’90s as a way for local artists to keep in touch with one another, and to be engaged in the art community.
“We’re just trying to promote art in the area,” member Denise Fetrow said. “We welcome artists of all ages. We have lessons, we teach each other about what we’re doing, and we have challenges every month where we are supposed to paint a particular type of thing.”
This month’s special project was waterfalls. Previous projects included old buildings and local landmarks.
Monthly lessons include programs on artists, framing and matting, and painting techniques.
The group meets once a month at Hilltop Manor. Upcoming local shows include one this summer at Gallery 101 that will correspond with Marion City Library’s garden tour.
“In the early years, they always did a show at the Strong City Rodeo,” Fetrow said. “We’ve also done shows at Pioneer Bluffs, and in Florence during Labor Day.”
Area artists include Madonna Schafers, Tillie Schafers, Sue Clough, and Mary Rogers.
Those interested in joining the guild may contact Fetrow at (620) 274-4274.
“We would love to have more members,” Fetrow said. “We are always looking for more.”