EXECUTIVE BOARD

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A Message from Michelle Curry, President

Michelle Curry, President of Ocala Art Group

A Passion for Art

“Life is short. Take the trip. Buy the shoes. Eat the cake.”  -unknown

“The day is an empty canvas, the shapes and colors are yours to choose.”  -Alex Noble

I have had students that every now and then make a comment that they are “addicted” to art supplies. I cringe instinctively. I am quick to disagree, and say that they should replace that word instead with “passion.” They may express, as I am apt to do, a bit of shy consternation and guilt over a recent and small art purchase.

 I totally understand this feeling. It starts when you see a new art supply. The excitement builds, as you research, compare prices, wait for clearance sales. With me, because I am frugal, it might take some months, or even years to finally find something I highly prize at the price point I desire.  When it happens, with bated breath, there is the final moment to push the “purchase” button. As it is shipped, there is a waiting period, often checking tracking numbers, and watching until it has arrived. Then there is the opening, testing, and playing with ideas to implement and incorporate it into making art! 

Addictions are negative, harmful and serve no good purpose. They are diminishing, detrimental to our minds, bodies and spirits, create problems with friends and family, and cause us to retreat from life. Art supplies and tools, even at a hobby level are not in that category!  Balance is key, and using what we have is definately crucial!

People have all kinds of passions, and spend unashamedly on what they value, and what brings them joy, and so should you! See your purchases as an investment in your quality of life, for your best self, and for other’s life enrichment when they enjoy your art work!

“Passion,” when it comes to art, is something that is positive, productive, expansive, giving purpose and meaning beyond survival in life. It causes us to create goals, overcome difficulty, and envision a better life!

Carpe Diem! (Seize the Day).
Happy ARTing!
Michelle Curry
OAG President
Artist, Educator

Incoming officers: President Michelle Curry, VP Marilyn Busse, Treasurer Cathy Burnside, Recording Secretary Cheryl Dornbush (absent), and Corresponding Secretary Linda Bakos. Huge shout-out to these brave volunteers! For a full review of the event and more photos, continue here.

Installation of Officers
Installation of Officers

Executive Board- Panoramic View- January 2026- photo contributed by John D. Elliott

OCALA ART GROUP EXECUTIVE BOARD & DIRECTORS

OFFICERS 
(* Voting rights)
President*Michelle Curry
1st Vice President of Exhibits*Monica Coburn
2nd Vice President of Programs*Marilyn Busse
Recording Secretary*Cheryl Dornbush
Corresponding Secretary*Linda Bakos
Treasurer*Cathy Burnside
Past President*Lee Asta
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Membership*Arlene Wells
Community Outreach*
Social Media and Website*Barbara Fife, Catherine Burnside,
John Elliott
Notices- MailchimpCheryl Dornbush, Catherine Burnside
Publicity*John Elliott