By Darla McCammon

Tana Bondar

Two artists are collaborating with a delightful exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery. This week we will share information about Tana Bondar, the first of the two; and next week we will share information with you about Avon Watters, the second artist. Both will have work on display from now until the end of August. The Warsaw City Hall generously donates a lovely gallery space for the enjoyment of all who wish to visit the free exhibit. Hours for the exhibit are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for holidays.

Tana Bondar is an area artist who lives in Peru. She teaches art and calligraphy and exhibits at her studio, Gallery 15, located in Peru. Talented in many different media such as oils, watercolor, and acrylic, she recently switched to something new and for the past four years she has immersed herself in the challenging and beautiful results she is achieving in pastels. She did not leave behind her other talents however, and continues to create fascinating pieces in all the areas where she has exhibited talent.

“I love the medium,” said Bondar about her work in pastels. “It is pure pigment, softness and intense color. I enjoy the spontaneity and simplicity of tools.”

Bondar is a member of the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association and enjoys painting outside the studio. They prefer agreeable weather and enjoy working together with other plein air enthusiasts who, like many of the old masters we have discussed in this column, preferred creating their work onsite outdoors.

“Painting outside is an experience that stretches an artist,” said Bondar. “The light and atmosphere change, and there is limited time to produce a painting.”

In another skill, Bondar has spent over three decades working with calligraphy. She considers calligraphy to be more detailed and controlled than her impressionistic pastel painting. She has studied with several of the most distinguished master calligraphers in the world and her work was utilized by American Stationery Company, where she served as art director. Bondar’s designs were sold nationwide and were best sellers for the company.

Award winning is not new for Bondar.

“I’m always amazed when a piece comes to fruition,” said Bondar. “The process begins with uncertainty and a desire to express beauty and emotion. As the painting begins to emerge, curiosity and excitement become the fuel to see it through, and then the final details make it come alive.”

Next week, we’ll discuss Avon Watters, the companion exhibitor with Bondar at Warsaw City Hall.

Upcoming Events:

If you would like to exhibit at Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery or submit an event, contact Darla McCammon at [email protected] or at (574) 527-4044.

• Warsaw City Hall will display works by Tona Bondar and Avon Watters from June 3 through August.
• Warsaw High School students and Christi Ziebarth will have works on display at the Gallery at Rua in Warsaw through July 21.