By Laurie Lechlitner
InkFreeNews

FULTON COUNTY — June Clark is a junior at Argos High School, but she’s known in Fulton County through her artwork. On display in March and April at the Fulton County Public Library are her two oil paintings, one watercolor, some oil pastels and pencil and marker drawings.

June Clark

“I believe everyone can draw if they put their minds to it,” she remarked. “And if they practice, they might just become an artist.”

Clark cannot remember a time when art was not in her household. “My mother is very creative. She is into arts and crafts. And even as a young child, I loved to doodle. Although I have never drawn or painted directly on the walls, as kids are notorious for doing,” she added with a chuckle, “I did have my artwork displayed on my bedroom walls and on the fridge as a kid.”

One of the first projects Clark created in art class that she wanted to take home was a shadow profile.

“A light was turned on and we traced our profiles. I’ve always enjoyed drawing or painting people. That may have been why that project stands out. Sometimes I’ll look at a person and think to myself, I wish I could draw your nose. I enjoy the facial shapes of a good profile.”

This year in high school, Clark is taking an introduction to painting class. “We’re experiencing different mediums such as watercolors and acrylics.”

Whenever Clark draws a portrait, whether that be of a person, animal or insect, she strives to give the piece personality. “I included a picture of a beetle and dinosaur in my display at the library. And I have some portraits of people. It’s important to bring out the personality of my subjects.”

Art is not the only medium she has to express herself. “I play flute in the high school band and am in the color guard in marching band.”

One of her favorite pastimes is to visit a thrift store with a friend. “Like they say, ‘One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.’ I’m into vintage-wear and the price is definitely right.”

After graduating from high school, Clark would love to go to college and major in art. “I think I might like to be an art teacher. I’ve always enjoyed experiencing the world of art myself. I’d like to help young people experience it too.” She has toured Goshen College as a possibility. But she has some time to make up her mind.

Clark has four siblings: Michael, 5, Miriam, 7, Logan, 12, and Gavin, 17. “Our family goes to sporting events and we watch movies together. My favorite family event is going out to eat.”

When asked what it takes to be a good artist, Clark paused, and then said, “It takes an imagination and some creativity. I also believe we must have respect and consideration for those who will view our creations.”

She continued, “Practice makes perfect. A serious artist must draw something every day. And even if it’s not great in the artist’s eye, it might be a work of art in the eyes of the beholders. An artist is not afraid to try different things and is not discouraged if a project doesn’t always turn out as planned.”