Meet our CHTAC Instructors!
Meet our CHTAC Instructors!
Get to know a few of our art instructors at The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center!
Name: Mary Lee Ruff
CHTAC Classes Taught: Beginning Drawing and Drawing
Favorite Medium: Graphite Pencil
Best thing about teaching: Having the opportunity to share my love of drawing with other people. Watching a student’s face light up when they learn a new concept or technique is a joyous moment for me. The key to drawing is learning to ‘see’. Teaching students to observe and appreciate the beauty of the world that surrounds us is life enhancing for them and for me.
Best interaction with a student: When Jeanne said “I can’t believe I’m doing this!”-- the moment she realized she was creating a beautiful work of art.
Art is important because: We can freely express ourselves in a creative way, allowing our true nature to shine. Art brings balance to our hectic lives. Art teaches us to be in the moment: to slow down, be observant, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. It allows differences in people, ideas, experiences, and techniques to flourish. Art promotes acceptance of those differences.
What makes Charles H. Taylor Arts Center unique: CHTAC is a happy place. Jim and Deb are the cornerstones of the art center. They have created a warm, welcoming atmosphere that permeates the building and all who enter it. CHTAC is like a second home to me; my art home. All local artists are encouraged and supported from beginner to professional. Charles Taylor is truly a community art center. All exhibitions are open and free to the public. What better way to promote the arts to everyone!?
If you took a class (that wasn’t your own) which would you try: Acrylic painting with James Warwick Jones.
Name: Emily Christoff Flowers
CHTAC Class Taught: Portraits in Pastel, Classical Figure Drawing, Oil Painting
Favorite Medium: Pastel
Best thing about teaching: I learn more from my students then they learn from me.
Best interaction with a student: When I see their face light up with excitement after reaching a new level of artistic ability.
Art is important because: Beauty and human expression is vital in a world that is often chaotic.
What makes Charles H. Taylor Arts Center unique: It gives classes and has open enrollment for shows unlike any other art center in this area.
If you took a class (that wasn’t your own) which would you try: Photography. It is so important that I use my own photos for my paintings, but I am not a great photographer.