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 one (1) of the collection here.
See part two (2) of the collection here.
Currently an assistant professor and gallery director at Morehead State University, Jennifer Reis is both an arts professional and practicing artist. Besides conducting workshops and lectures, she has served on numerous boards and committees to advance the arts. An actively exhibiting and award-winning artist, Jennifer believes in the power of education and the arts to positively affect individual lives, independent of age or environment.
Anita Rummage is a professional artist who specializes in two-dimensional works. Most of her artwork is by commission, and she has published over a dozen limited edition prints. A longtime resident of Rowan County, Anita enjoys a wide variety of art media and has served as president of the Morehead Art Guild and on the founding board of directors at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Retired and living in Morehead, Brenda Salyers loved drawing and colors from an early age. She attended Eastern Kentucky University, Central Kentucky College, and the University of Kentucky, where she worked as production manager of the printing, publishing, and graphic arts department. Brenda enjoys working in all media, but oil is her passion. She is currently working on painting cityscapes of all 120 of Kentucky's counties.
Born in Fulton, Missouri, Joe Sartor received his bachelors of art from Centenary College of Louisiana and his masters in art from Missouri University. He joined the faculty at Morehead State University in 1968 and retired in 2000. Joe maintains a studio space at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Born in Fulton, Missouri, Joe Sartor received his bachelors of art from Centenary College of Louisiana and his masters in art from Missouri University. He joined the faculty at Morehead State University in 1968 and retired in 2000. Joe maintains a studio space at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Born in Fulton, Missouri, Joe Sartor received his bachelors of art from Centenary College of Louisiana and his masters in art from Missouri University. He joined the faculty at Morehead State University in 1968 and retired in 2000. Joe maintains a studio space at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Kay Schafer was raised in Lexington and is retired from Morehead State University. She has been a member of the Morehead Art Guild since the 1970s and is a member of the Cave Run Arts Association. Kay has participated in numerous regional exhibitions, and maintains a studio space at the Rowan County Arts Center.
Born and raised in Morehead, Sara Stone graduated from Morehead State University. She enjoys black and white film and digital photography, and is known for high-contrast photos meant to be true representations of Appalachia, evoking feelings of Kentuckian pride and nostalgia. Her donation to this collection was made in honor of Emily Stone.
Stephen Tirone retired from Morehead State University in 2009, after serving as a longtime professor of sculpture and ceramics. He received his masters in art from the University of Wisconsin, and has produced many significant public sculptures.
Before returning to Rowan County, Kathryn Wright lived in Colorado, where she served as art director for Quilters' Newsletter. She earned her bachelors and masters in studio art from Morehead State University, and has been making quilts since 2004.