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Washington Evening Journal
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From classroom to canvas: Sparks flies
New artist display at Arts IMPACT gallery features colorful pieces in various mediums
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
The Arts IMPACT mini art gallery in the Mt. Pleasant Public Library now features the work of Burlington artist Jeri Sparks through November and December.
Sparks' journey from Bozeman, Montana to Burlington in April 2020 marked the beginning of an unexpected yet inspiring career transformation. Initially set on becoming a high school mathematics teacher, Sparks found her true calling in early childhood education, dedicating most of her career to nurturing young minds. In 2005, however, she discovered another passion—drawing portraits in graphite.
By 2017, Jeri expanded her artistic repertoire by picking up a paintbrush and venturing into the world of painting as a mostly self-taught artist. Her involvement in the Southeast Iowa art community has only deepened since, and in 2022, she embraced her artistic dreams full-time, becoming an artist and instructor.
Sparks’ specialty lies in painting portraits, primarily in oil or acrylic, although she holds a preference for soft pastel when capturing the beauty of landscapes. Not confined to her studio, Sparks brings her art to life at various events in the area, recently branching out into mural painting and oil painting restoration.
When Sparks moved to Iowa in 2020, she had completed only seven paintings. Over the last four years, she has produced over 100 paintings and taught students of all ages, fueling a vibrant and creative community around her. Her personal journey from classroom to canvas serves as a testament to following one's passion and the transformative power of art.
The Arts IMPACT gallery is free and open to the public during regular library hours. The public is invited to experience Sparks’ art from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday throughout November and December.
Contact information for patrons wishing to communicate with the artist are available at the exhibit or on her website www.jerisparks.com
