My angle comes from being an artist and my community involvement in the area. 

When living in Hyde Park, I was introduced the Lamoille County Players and the Hyde park Opera House. I thought, what a great resource and how the LCP was so welcoming family and community orientated. I discovered a passion for set design, construction and decorating. Additionally, I hosted a workshop on set design and stage painting, organized an exhibit of set designers and painters showcasing their own works.

As the years went by I followed the inception of River Arts knowing most of the founders and thought again what a great resource for the community. I became involved by hosted painting classes, faux painting and carving workshops. RA also hosted an exhibit of my paintings.

RA’s galleries hosting artists of different and giving local artists exposer is especially important  seeing that it is the only gallery in Morrisville.  I am always intrigued and inspired with viewing other artist’s works.

With both of these organizations I felt fortunate that I had the opportunity to express my artist side but was also was to share my experiences/skills with others. Now being involved with the two I felt there could the opportunity to ‘cross pollinate’ the resources.

The Covid strike was a double edge sword for myself. With stage productions postponed, my work halted,  I turned to another community project and my easel. The project was a Little Free Library for the Lanpher Memorial Library in Hyde Park modeled after the library. I was able to focus on a painting that I had shelved including working on sketches for future paintings.

  Like many, it is taking an extra effort to keep moving forward. With RA’s recent success of the scarecrow contest plus keeping the doors open for all, demonstrates we will make it through this. I’m looking forward to hosting a faux painting workshop in the near future! 

-Rick Loya, Board of Directors