Pictured is John Streeter with both his pastel and wood creations.

By Darla McCammon

I first met John Streeter a few years ago when he donated two fabulous works of art for our Animal Welfare League to use for the cover of our cookbook fundraiser. They were delightful depictions of both a dog and a cat and helped a great deal in the raising of funds for the shelter through proceeds from the colorful and interesting cookbooks. All the recipes were from our loyal volunteers and donors, so it was a project full of love and good intentions.

Streeter is an amazing and award-winning pastel artist who is generous with his talent. He has taught classes at Lakeland Art Association and if he offers any this year, please think about signing up. It is well worth your time and you will walk away with an original lovely pastel as a keepsake for your home.

The work by Streeter has expanded into beautifully intricate wood pieces as well as his customary pastels. His work will be on view at the free gallery located at 302 E. Winona Ave., Warsaw. You can visit from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The exhibit will run until Sept. 1. Streeter has a summer vacation home here in this area but resides the rest of the year in his Chicago home or in Florida quarters during winter months. Thus he has ample subject matter from which to draw his inspirational work.

Prior to retirement, Streeter worked as a commercial and graphic artist, which helps explain his detail and accurate realism in his work. His pastels, far from the lukewarm and washed out efforts of other pastel artists, are vibrant with striking color and dimensionality. A member of multiple art associations, including our own Lakeland Art Association here in Kosciusko County, Streeter attempts to make his work affordable yet extremely collectible.

Upcoming And Current Events

• Opening this month is Fred Olds’ Nostalgic collection on display at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery through the end of September. It will be open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays.
• The Wagon Wheel Theatre Gallery “Bridges of Madison County” art exhibit is located in the theatre lobby, featuring well-known local artists and a theme of bridges.