We lived in Kent, Ohio during my 5th year of grade school. I took Saturday morning art classes with Dr. Kieselbach. He was one of two cornerstones in my art education. I recall him bringing in boxes of wood scraps ...he dumped them in the middle of the floor...he put up his arms and firmly said "build"! He total… Read more

We lived in Kent, Ohio during my 5th year of grade school. I took Saturday morning art classes with Dr. Kieselbach. He was one of two cornerstones in my art education. I recall him bringing in boxes of wood scraps ...he dumped them in the middle of the floor...he put up his arms and firmly said "build"! He totally inspired me. I will forever remember the giraffe I built in that class. I also spent time in their home. My parents played bridge with Doctor and Mrs. Kieselbach. Sometimes, I would get to spend the night at their home because his daughter and I were friends and in the same grade. Her name is Susie. I recall thinking I was helping him out by cleaning his oil palette for him while Susie and I were playing in their basement....oh, did I ever get into trouble for THAT! Now, as a professional artist, I totally understand his dismay! A humorous memory still tickles me when I recall the large painting they had hanging in their living room....It was hung upside down...but, I still knew it was a naked lady! They said it was a bunny with long ears! HA ! His work inspired me. I wanted to be just like him. I would give anything to be able to thank him for what he did for my creativity, as well as erasing my fear to just do it! I have taught art K thru college level without a full formal education. I became a muralist in south Florida where I fearlessly executed well over 800 murals during a 17 year span. Currently, I am living back in Ohio. Teaching the arts is part of my working studio. Dr. Kieselbach introduced me to a variety of art forms. As an adult, I have gone back to each of his art examples... ...including hand built ceramic. Dr. Kieselbach deeply touched my life.