Infusion of the arts in the library environment—by showcasing diverse works from local artists, increasing opportunities for people of all ages to expand their knowledge of and appreciation for art, and stimulating potential artists—was the driving force for the Rowan County Public Library Art Collection.
The construction of a new building offered both opportunity and space for the development of a permanent art collection, and the W. Paul and Lucille Caudill Little Foundation provided funding. A myriad of Rowan County artists, representing varied techniques and media, responded to the call for art, and a jury chose the works to be exhibited.
From the portico to the vestibule and throughout the library, visitors will encounter not only oils, acrylics, and watercolors, but will also view sculptures, photography, quilts, pottery, and more. Additionally, some of the works are further described with video presentations and samples of materials provided by the artists. Local historical significance for certain pieces is noted, as well.
With special thanks to the W. Paul and Lucille Caudill Little Foundation for their contribution, the Rowan County Public Library is honored to present this collection that demonstrates the wide-ranging talents of Rowan County artists. We especially wish to acknowledge the efforts of Matt Collinsworth and Adrian Swain, both of whom were instrumental in the completion of this project. The complete collection offers an environment rich in information, inspiration, and vision.
All artist information is current to the best of our knowledge, but please contact us with corrections.
See part two (2) of the collection here.
See part three (3) of the collection here.
Carolyn Adams is a wife and mother of two (2) sons who has worked a variety of "regular" jobs while striving to make time for creating art. She is a member of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen, the Lexington Art League, and a founding member of the Cave Run Arts Association. She maintains a studio space at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Christine Barker worked to portray the people of Appalachia with dignity, and its land with respect. She lived, studied, and traveled throughout the world before returning to Kentucky to live her dream. She was the founder and owner of Pine Grove Framing & Gallery of Fine Art, as well as a founding member of the Morehead Art Guild. Ms. Barker died in 2010.
A member of the art faculty at Morehead State University since the 1980s, David Bartlett was born in Minnesota and raised in Wisconsin. As a member of the Peace Corps, he taught high school in Micronesia before receiving his first photography training at a creative arts workshop in New Haven, Connecticut. He received numerous regional and national awards for his work. Mr. Bartlett died in 2021.
A member of the art faculty at Morehead State University since the 1980s, David Bartlett was born in Minnesota and raised in Wisconsin. As a member of the Peace Corps, he taught high school in Micronesia before receiving his first photography training at a creative arts workshop in New Haven, Connecticut. He received numerous regional and national awards for his work. Mr. Bartlett died in 2021.
A member of the art faculty at Morehead State University since the 1980s, David Bartlett was born in Minnesota and raised in Wisconsin. As a member of the Peace Corps, he taught high school in Micronesia before receiving his first photography training at a creative arts workshop in New Haven, Connecticut. He received numerous regional and national awards for his work. Mr. Bartlett died in 2021.
With a degree in biological sciences and a history in microbiology, Linda Brewer became a nontraditional art student at Morehead State University. She sometimes uses photography and computer-assistive techniques for her print-making projects. Linda has participated in juried and non-juried art shows throughout Kentucky and Ohio.
With a degree in biological sciences and a history in microbiology, Linda Brewer became a nontraditional art student at Morehead State University. She sometimes uses photography and computer-assistive techniques for her print-making projects. Linda has participated in juried and non-juried art shows throughout Kentucky and Ohio.
A self-taught photographer, Priscilla Gotsick is a wife and mother who holds two (2) master's degrees and previously worked for Morehead State University. After taking a private painting class, she began to study art more seriously. Priscilla exhibited locally and regionally before moving to California.
Seth Green is originally from Utah, where he received his bachelor's is art from Southern Utah University. He received his master's in ceramics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Currently an assistant professor at Morehead State University, Green's work focuses on spirituality and is influenced by religious symbols in architecture.
Seth Green is originally from Utah, where he received his bachelor's is art from Southern Utah University. He received his master's in ceramics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Currently an assistant professor at Morehead State University, Green's work focuses on spirituality and is influenced by religious symbols in architecture.
After retiring together, Sandra Gullett moved with her husband to Morehead, where he had been born and raised. She holds a master's degree in art education from the University of Cincinnati, and taught art classes in Ohio until her retirement. She is a longtime member of the Morehead Art Guild and Cave Run Arts Association. Sandra enjoys both attending and teaching art classes, and says the abundant nature of Kentucky is her inspiration.
After retiring together, Sandra Gullett moved with her husband to Morehead, where he had been born and raised. She holds a master's degree in art education from the University of Cincinnati, and taught art classes in Ohio until her retirement. She is a longtime member of the Morehead Art Guild and Cave Run Arts Association. Sandra enjoys both attending and teaching art classes, and says the abundant nature of Kentucky is her inspiration.