An Artist, An Influence

“Window Shopping” by Bonnie Paruch.

I recently had a chance to reconnect with an old acquaintance – one that had helped my husband and I make a major decision many years ago. While we chatted, I remembered a conversation we had shared at a time when we were considering becoming self-employed in a new art business. I could recall Tom Lidtke saying, “Are you ready for success?” On another occasion when I wondered aloud when the time was right to start showing my work, Tom pushed me along with these words: “If you wait until you think you’re ready, you’ll never begin!”

I’ve spent a lot of time considering the many individuals who have influenced my career. What follows is my collection of memorable and empowering words spoken by the people who have made a difference in my life as an artist:

Vernon Paruch (my husband): “Do we really need a dining room? You need a studio!”

Bill Parks (teacher and mentor): “Keep smiling.”

Wally Scheunemann (Sunday painter and friend): “You’re an oil painter. Get rid of those *! #* watercolors!”

Dan Gerhartz (artist and mentor): “Just paint.”

An unknown gallery night visitor in Scottsdale, Arizona: “You paint like a dead Russian.”

Ryan (my son) at age eight, pointing to paintings in our home: “These are the ones my mom didn’t sell.”

Austin (my son): “That one belongs in a museum.”

Irene and Alex Goeden (mom and dad): “Give it time.”

Lori Beringer (friend and artist): “It’s okay to ask for help.”

Pamela Sweet (friend and artist): “You can do it!”

All of these individuals have inspired me to give a little more, try a little harder, and listen more intently. Play it forward and pass the word.

Bonnie’s work may be viewed at her website, http://www.bonnieparuchfineart.com, or at her studio, which is located at 11249 County Road ZZ in Sister Bay and is open 1 – 4 pm Wednesday and Saturday or by appointment. She is also represented by Edgewood Orchard Galleries in Fish Creek. For more information, please call 920.421.1616.

The Peninsula Pulse has partnered with the Hardy Gallery to present the series, “An Artist, An Influence.” For more information about The Hardy, call 920.421.2595, email [email protected] or visit http://www.thehardy.org.