Established in 1963, the Women’s Art Board provides its members with educational speakers in the visual arts. Three times a year during February, March, and April, our meetings are open to the public with a lecture series called ArtTalks.

In 2004, the talks featured Steve Pitkin, John and Diane Balsley in lively presentations relating to the Self-Taught African American exhibition, Collected Visions, and artist Lorraine Peltz discussing the themes that simmer through her life and artwork. Patty Rhea acted as program director throughout the year, obtaining a variety of speakers including Deborah Newton, Bonnie Kistler Hinde, Susan Webb Tregay, Virginia Noerr and Andrew Langoussis.

Renowned art historian, teacher and critic, Franz Schulze, provided context for the Abstract Expressionist show, Reuniting an Era, while sculptor Don Reed enlightened us about Lorado Taft’s life and work, specifically the newly acquired middle-model cast bronze, “The Solitude of the Soul”. Our annual Barbara Rinella fundraiser was a rousing success with 376 people attending the event. WAB provided financial support for the Evergreen Ball, Greenwich Village Art Fair, and Abstract Expressionist exhibition.

In 2005, we anticipate another exciting ArtTalks series featuring celebrated artist and revered Professor, Robert N. McCauley. McCauley serves as Art Department chairman at Rockford College and has an impressive national record of solo, group and invitational exhibitions as well as extensive experiences as a visiting artist and curator. He is represented by Linda Hodges Gallery, Seattle, K. Kimpton Contemporary Art, San Francisco, Perimeter Gallery, Chicago, and Gail Severn Gallery, Sun Valley.

Don’t miss out as McCauley shares his wisdom and explores a variety of themes in this delightful mini-course format.

The Women's Art Board looks forward toward to another year fulfilling our unique role in the life of this terrific museum!

Diana Behr
Women’s Art Board