Local artist showcases collection at Art Reach; teaches classes
Carole Howard doesn’t consider herself an artist — just someone who enjoys painting.
“Every day there is something you look at and you say, ‘I need to draw that,’” Howard said.Howard taught dance at Central Michigan University in the physical education department for 20 years and since her retirement has dedicated much of her time to art.
“After finishing my career at the university, I went 100 miles-per-hour to learn this stuff, took art classes,” she said.
Howard said she turned her garage into her studio where she spends hours painting whatever comes to mind.
Mount Pleasant resident Nedra Fisher said she started taking art classes with Howard in 1986 and has watched her grow and develop her own style ever since.
“She is just amazing as an artist,” Fisher said. “I think she is living her dream.”
A “One Woman Show” exhibit featuring Howard's painting kicked off on Thursday at Art Reach, 111 E. Broadway St.
Howard made the 52 nature-inspired paintings using watercolor, acrylics and collage. Many of the paintings had been sold in the past and were being loaned by the owners for the art exhibit. Some are for sale and others Howard said she plans to bring back home.
The oldest painting is a watercolor of fish called “Minnow Hole,” which Howard made in 1988.
The exhibit will remain open to the public until April 30.
"We expect a lot of people. She is very popular in this area,” said Art Reach Education and Program Coordinator Kari Chrenka.
Though retired from CMU, Howard has been teaching courses for Art Reach.
Chrenka said Howard is a great teacher, and her students say she is able to unlock their creativity.
“I’m just excited that they (students) are excited for it," Howard said. "I’m hoping that they catch the enthusiasm for it (when I start teaching them)."
Howard said she has been involved in the community with organizations such as fundraising for Humane Animal Treatment Society and contributing to Art Reach programs.
Mount Pleasant resident Sue Bisard said Howard is also a host for the Road Scholar Program on Mackinac Island.
Bisard and her husband Walter shadowed Howard and her sister last year as they facilitated the program that drew in 36 people from 15 different states.
“She is someone to admire and fun to be around," Bisard said. "She has a great sense of humor."
Art Reach Executive Director Kathy Hill agreed.
“We are lucky to have her in our community," she said. "She is a real gem.”
