Artwork by Margaret Newman at Des Plaines Library in May

Paintings by Margaret Newman may be viewed at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood Street, throughout the month of May.

Back in May of 1992, Margaret went to Door County,Wisconsin to paint with a group of talented, seasoned painters, of whom she claims she was not one. A professor from Oakton Community College, Jim Krauss, had led this art course for years. After a painting lecture, the students were left outdoors, each at a particular site. Margaret's chosen spot to paint was overlooking Lake Michigan and some craggy, intimidating rocks. She stood there with her new easel, new paints, new canvas and her big hat. After two hours, with nothing painted, Jim came back, looked at her blank canvas and said "Just Do It!" That was the beginning of Margaret's painting career. She studied with Jim Krauss for many years and credits him for making her into the artist she has become.

Since then, Margaret has been very fortunate to have been in many art shows and galleries. Her first show was at Woman Made on Prairie Avenue in Chicago. She sold her first painting there and was amazed that someone liked it and actually paid her. Since then, Margaret has sold many more paintings and prints and has developed friendships with other artists, some still getting together at Oakton College. Through the Des Plaines Art Guild, Margaret was encouraged to be in local shows, which resulted in getting to know other artists in the community. She also served as President of the DPAG for a few years, giving her an opportunity to interact wtih other organizations and art guilds in the area.

If you would like to join the Des Plaines Art Guild, please download a membership form at dpag.org.