Keppy Arnoldsen
My interests and experimentation in art started in the mid 1970s, but in the last decade it has taken on a renewed devotion with the addition of pottery as a love. I was, first, a leather artist, second a stained glass creator, third a photographer, and now finally a potter as well. My husband and I purchased the building at 213 Standing Stone 6 years ago and started the ’ÄúEarthen Art’Äù establishment where many local artists have found a place to explore art and practice their skills. The 50-ft mural on the side of the building is a beautiful example of a group artist project there. My skills at both pottery and glass have found a place of focus at the Earthen Art Center and for years I practiced community outreach there by offering art local workshops and a place for local artists to offer their wares for sale. Recently, we have leased the show-room space to two other artists, but still maintain our presence there in two back rooms. It is nice to be able to share a love of art and encourage others, both visitors and renters, through the center. On a personal note, I have recently been merging my interests to produce pottery pieces and lamps that include ceramics, glass, and steel (my newest interest is welding!). I offer my art for sale on occasion at festivals, or by commission/appointment to interested parties. My photography focuses a lot on wildlife, and my images can be seen in our ’ÄúWild-eye Calendar’Äù, a collaborative effort with my husband and Beth Lerew, now in its fourth edition. What I love most is sharing the love of art with others, and my outreach is felt through charitable offerings particularly to children who are challenged with disabilities. I love our local community and have recently captured the flavor of our home town of Huntingdon in engraved keepsake plates. I encourage your correspondence at greenthumb@pennswoods.net or by phone at 814-643-3565.