Karen Bogard
The first thing you notice about ZAAP's Artist of the Month is her enthusiasm. Her infectious laugh fills a room where ever she goes. Her child like energy and appreciation for the arts is as abundant as her good cheer. Her work, too, embraces a light hearted character as it captures the light and makes it dance.
The artist I'm referring to is Karen Bogard. Known for her gregarious spirit, Karen is a glass artist whose work carries an equally gregarious spirit. From shards and sketches emerge an art form unlike any other. Her ability to take glass - in a myriad of colors and styles and translate them into pictures is simply amazing to behold. Her work graces homes, churches and even a library.
I first met Karen when she was in the idea phase of her commission from the New Concord Library. She had several delightful sketches which depicted children reading in silhouette in front of wondrous excerpts of favorite stories; each sketch more endearing than the last. In subsequent visits, each design transformed into one chosen work. Each detail lovingly sketched and arranged onto paper. Suddenly, the picture was created on a 4'x8' piece of wood. Her design was solidified and she began the quest of gathering just the right colors for each collage depiction. Piece by piece, she crafted the details and nestled them in their place. I had never seen such craftsmanship or such a project. Storybook favorites began to look out from her emerging window. Black Beauty, Peter Pan and Tom Sawyer..all coming to life. It is stunning to behold.
She is has embraced the ZAAP honor in a big way. Not only will the gallery be adorned by her work, some glass work in 3-d, but it will also be abundantly decorated in true Halloween style. Being a character herself, it's no wonder that she as was thrilled at the opportunity October offered.
Being the big hearted person that she is, she is also taking this opportunity to give back to the community. She has created a rendition of police dog Bosco which she is raffling off. All funds raised will go towards his recovery bills. If you are interested in an opportunity to contribute to the cause and maybe even win the painting - visit the ZAAP Gallery on 625 Main Street and celebrate the season in style! Enjoy Karen and some of her favorite pieces! It is a great night for an artistic stroll.
-Shelley Tolliver
