Regatta Row 2023 Artists

Gavin Bocanegra #18 "Take Your Chair Anywhere" Award of Excellence
From a young age I have had a passion for cartoons and comedy, particularly
spongebob squarepants. I first started coloring spongebob in coloring books
then drawing him freehand. Today he continues to be my favorite character to draw. Inspired by my video game play with my brothers, I began drawing super mario bros. I then began to illustrate Angry Birds and expanded into paper and clay sculpture, painting, watercolors and graphic design. Every piece of artwork I create expresses my love for cartoons and comedy which have inspired me to recreate movie posters and actor portraits that make people laugh and smile.
I also have a love for music and know how to play piano. I have been able to
learn how to play some of my favorite classic rock pieces as well as some TV
melodies. Some of my hobbies also include bowling and spending quality time
with my family. I am honored to be a part of Regatta Row and would like to
thank the Jericho Arts council for the opportunity to show my work.
Chair tag:
This project for Regatta Row has really been a great
experience so far. It is my first time painting a chair and
the theme is books by the river, so I’m creating a Dr.
Seuss inspired piece, which is one of my favorite book
authors from my childhood. I have been able to
incorporate many books into this chair by Dr. Seuss
such as Green Eggs and Ham, Yertle the Turtle, Cat in
the Hat, The Lorax and more. From the beginning
sketches to now placing them on the chair this piece
will bring the spirit of Dr. Seuss to life.
From a young age I have had a passion for cartoons and comedy, particularly
spongebob squarepants. I first started coloring spongebob in coloring books
then drawing him freehand. Today he continues to be my favorite character to draw. Inspired by my video game play with my brothers, I began drawing super mario bros. I then began to illustrate Angry Birds and expanded into paper and clay sculpture, painting, watercolors and graphic design. Every piece of artwork I create expresses my love for cartoons and comedy which have inspired me to recreate movie posters and actor portraits that make people laugh and smile.
I also have a love for music and know how to play piano. I have been able to
learn how to play some of my favorite classic rock pieces as well as some TV
melodies. Some of my hobbies also include bowling and spending quality time
with my family. I am honored to be a part of Regatta Row and would like to
thank the Jericho Arts council for the opportunity to show my work.
Chair tag:
This project for Regatta Row has really been a great
experience so far. It is my first time painting a chair and
the theme is books by the river, so I’m creating a Dr.
Seuss inspired piece, which is one of my favorite book
authors from my childhood. I have been able to
incorporate many books into this chair by Dr. Seuss
such as Green Eggs and Ham, Yertle the Turtle, Cat in
the Hat, The Lorax and more. From the beginning
sketches to now placing them on the chair this piece
will bring the spirit of Dr. Seuss to life.

Fran Briggs #11 "Once Upon a River"
Decoupage is new one for me. The idea came to me when I thought of the theme “books on the river”. What other than good ole Huck Finn could it be. I tinted the pages by soaking them tea to make them look older.
I added rivers on the sides which go together. The Unadilla River runs into the Susquehanna and the Tioughnioga flows into the Chenango .
This is my 7th year doing Regatta Row. I have a Facebook page “Creations by Granny Franny”. Most of the things I make are custom. I enjoy painting. I am only able to do a little at the time but it’s my “forget the world time”.
Decoupage is new one for me. The idea came to me when I thought of the theme “books on the river”. What other than good ole Huck Finn could it be. I tinted the pages by soaking them tea to make them look older.
I added rivers on the sides which go together. The Unadilla River runs into the Susquehanna and the Tioughnioga flows into the Chenango .
This is my 7th year doing Regatta Row. I have a Facebook page “Creations by Granny Franny”. Most of the things I make are custom. I enjoy painting. I am only able to do a little at the time but it’s my “forget the world time”.

Emily Conner #4 "Tales by the River"
My name is Emily Conner and I currently am an art teacher at the Oxford School District in the primary school. I attended college at Mansfield University in Pennsylvania where I received my undergraduate degree in Art Education. After I went on and received my Masters degree in reading from Mansfield University and SUNY Oneonta. The reason I decided to submit my design idea is because I believe it is important to create strong community ties between artists and their communities. It is important for artists to have the opportunity to show their work throughout their community. The theme for this regatta also interests me because I believe it is important to spark children's interest and love for reading. One way this can be done is through the visual arts. I currently live in the Norwich area, and enjoy being outdoors. In my spare time when I'm not teaching, I enjoy being at my summer lake property and spending time with friends and family.
For the chair, I will be painting the design that I drew. On each arm a book will be painted and on the top there will be a castle. The back of the chair will have other designs, crowns, coins, and vines. As a child I liked stories and fairytales, this is what inspired me when creating my design. I also enjoyed crafts and painting which is why I'm choosing to paint my design.
My name is Emily Conner and I currently am an art teacher at the Oxford School District in the primary school. I attended college at Mansfield University in Pennsylvania where I received my undergraduate degree in Art Education. After I went on and received my Masters degree in reading from Mansfield University and SUNY Oneonta. The reason I decided to submit my design idea is because I believe it is important to create strong community ties between artists and their communities. It is important for artists to have the opportunity to show their work throughout their community. The theme for this regatta also interests me because I believe it is important to spark children's interest and love for reading. One way this can be done is through the visual arts. I currently live in the Norwich area, and enjoy being outdoors. In my spare time when I'm not teaching, I enjoy being at my summer lake property and spending time with friends and family.
For the chair, I will be painting the design that I drew. On each arm a book will be painted and on the top there will be a castle. The back of the chair will have other designs, crowns, coins, and vines. As a child I liked stories and fairytales, this is what inspired me when creating my design. I also enjoyed crafts and painting which is why I'm choosing to paint my design.

Pat Cristelli #20 "Let the Adventures Begin" Best Creative Concept
Attended the High School of Art & Design in Manhattan. Moved to Upstate NY and continued my art
education at Vestal High School, and SUNY Buffalo. I began my career in the Visual Arts department of a
Buffalo Department store and continued a career in retail. In 2013 I opened a flower shop and gift store
which allowed me to create beautiful flower arrangements. I have designed and executed 5 chairs in
the Jericho Arts Council’s Regatta Row over the years. I currently offer crafting and art classes at the
Community Cultural Center.
Chair Tag:
My chair takes you back to the days of our childhood, or perhaps you read Winnie the Pooh stories to your children or grandchildren. All the Winnie the Pooh stories encourage friendship, tolerance, kindness, patience and forgiveness. All those things we, as a World, are still struggling with today. Pooh ultimately could always depend on his friends, sometimes to help him restock his honey, or take an adventure, or to just lay around and do nothing. So sit back, with a cold drink, and enjoy the scenery around you. If you are close to the river you will hear it making it's journey, but if you are not near the river, if you listen closely and use your imagination it will be there for your adventures too.
Attended the High School of Art & Design in Manhattan. Moved to Upstate NY and continued my art
education at Vestal High School, and SUNY Buffalo. I began my career in the Visual Arts department of a
Buffalo Department store and continued a career in retail. In 2013 I opened a flower shop and gift store
which allowed me to create beautiful flower arrangements. I have designed and executed 5 chairs in
the Jericho Arts Council’s Regatta Row over the years. I currently offer crafting and art classes at the
Community Cultural Center.
Chair Tag:
My chair takes you back to the days of our childhood, or perhaps you read Winnie the Pooh stories to your children or grandchildren. All the Winnie the Pooh stories encourage friendship, tolerance, kindness, patience and forgiveness. All those things we, as a World, are still struggling with today. Pooh ultimately could always depend on his friends, sometimes to help him restock his honey, or take an adventure, or to just lay around and do nothing. So sit back, with a cold drink, and enjoy the scenery around you. If you are close to the river you will hear it making it's journey, but if you are not near the river, if you listen closely and use your imagination it will be there for your adventures too.

Susan Daily #15 "The Wind in the Willows"
Susan Daily is an artist working in acrylic, pastels, watercolors and pen and ink. frequently found doing landscape painting outdoors,(called plein air).
She lives in Chalfont, Pennsylvania and Afton NY. She is a working professional artist who draws or paints every day. Her website has a selection of works for sale.
www.susandailyartwork.com Her instagram shows works in progress and shows. Susan is available for commission work by special contract.
She will be participating in the Artisan Tent at the Regatta with an art booth.and also at the Afton Arts and Crafts Festival.
Before retiring at 70 in 2020, Susan worked for forty years in the nonprofit sector as an executive fundraiser (CFRE) and her last position was as the co-executive director of a children's camp.
She was excited to learn about the Jericho Art Center Regatta Row campaign and loved doing the Wind In the WIllows Chair which was also a new venture into illustration for her.
Each scene in the chair was drawn before being painted in acrylic or watercolor or marker. The chair was sealed with Helmsman Gloss Minwax.
Susan used Golden Acrylic Paints for most of the direct painting on the chair.
Chair tag:
My chair is simply called “The Wind in the Willows”. I used to be a professional writer, so literacy is important to me. When I thought about the Reading By the River theme, I wanted a great book to do.
I chose that one because The Wind In the Willows was one of my favorite books as a child. It is about the river and the woods, the beauty of nature throughout the seasons, the lure of adventure, the comfort of home, but most of all,it is about loyalty and friendship, and being a friend to sometimes difficult people! Each of the characters embodies a quality that is universal, and I love them all.
“There is nothing – absolutely nothing-half so much worth doing as messing around in boats.”
Susan Daily is an artist working in acrylic, pastels, watercolors and pen and ink. frequently found doing landscape painting outdoors,(called plein air).
She lives in Chalfont, Pennsylvania and Afton NY. She is a working professional artist who draws or paints every day. Her website has a selection of works for sale.
www.susandailyartwork.com Her instagram shows works in progress and shows. Susan is available for commission work by special contract.
She will be participating in the Artisan Tent at the Regatta with an art booth.and also at the Afton Arts and Crafts Festival.
Before retiring at 70 in 2020, Susan worked for forty years in the nonprofit sector as an executive fundraiser (CFRE) and her last position was as the co-executive director of a children's camp.
She was excited to learn about the Jericho Art Center Regatta Row campaign and loved doing the Wind In the WIllows Chair which was also a new venture into illustration for her.
Each scene in the chair was drawn before being painted in acrylic or watercolor or marker. The chair was sealed with Helmsman Gloss Minwax.
Susan used Golden Acrylic Paints for most of the direct painting on the chair.
Chair tag:
My chair is simply called “The Wind in the Willows”. I used to be a professional writer, so literacy is important to me. When I thought about the Reading By the River theme, I wanted a great book to do.
I chose that one because The Wind In the Willows was one of my favorite books as a child. It is about the river and the woods, the beauty of nature throughout the seasons, the lure of adventure, the comfort of home, but most of all,it is about loyalty and friendship, and being a friend to sometimes difficult people! Each of the characters embodies a quality that is universal, and I love them all.
“There is nothing – absolutely nothing-half so much worth doing as messing around in boats.”

Christine Giuliano #14 "The 100" Mayor's Award
Chair tag:
"The 100" is set 97 years after a nuclear apocalypse , on-board a dying space station that is running out of air. In desperation to survive, 100 juvenile delinquents are sent back to Earth to see if it is habitable thinking that those aboard the space station are the last of mankind. But they were wrong!! There were survivors. Clans of ruthless warriors , who had adapted over time ,guided by one leader who they believed to be chosen by her blood, which is only partially true. Her knowledge came from an AI "the flame" that was implanted when she became the commander. An AI was created by the same person responsible for creating the AI that destroyed Earth in the first place. There were other survivors as well who had created an underground self sustaining technological society in Mt Weather. Their desperation to get to the surface puts them at odds with both the grounders and the 100. There series goes onto explore another nuclear apocalypse with travel to a new world as a result.
Chair tag:
"The 100" is set 97 years after a nuclear apocalypse , on-board a dying space station that is running out of air. In desperation to survive, 100 juvenile delinquents are sent back to Earth to see if it is habitable thinking that those aboard the space station are the last of mankind. But they were wrong!! There were survivors. Clans of ruthless warriors , who had adapted over time ,guided by one leader who they believed to be chosen by her blood, which is only partially true. Her knowledge came from an AI "the flame" that was implanted when she became the commander. An AI was created by the same person responsible for creating the AI that destroyed Earth in the first place. There were other survivors as well who had created an underground self sustaining technological society in Mt Weather. Their desperation to get to the surface puts them at odds with both the grounders and the 100. There series goes onto explore another nuclear apocalypse with travel to a new world as a result.

Rachel Hares #3 "Just Sign It"
Rachel Hares is an Artist living in Bainbridge, NY with her life partner and daughter, cats and puppy. She focuses primarily on Abstract painting, but is now expanding her love of light and color creating unique Stained Glass pieces and Jewelry. Creating Art is a way of life that shows up in everything she does. When she’s not painting, electroforming, cutting glass she can be found gardening, creating salves and oils from her herbs, cooking, spending time in Nature, enjoying her family, Volunteering with the Jericho Arts Council and enjoying live music. Her inspiration comes from the Music, Nature and Energy she enjoys in everyday life.
Chair tag:
“The Dot” is a story by Peter Reynolds. It features a young girl in art class who thinks she can’t create art. Her teacher asks her to just make a mark on the page. She does, and then her teacher says to sign it. She eventually makes more dots, and presents her work in a show. Anyone can be an artist. It’s not always about the final piece, sometimes art is just the process, and you have to sign it.
Rachel Hares is an Artist living in Bainbridge, NY with her life partner and daughter, cats and puppy. She focuses primarily on Abstract painting, but is now expanding her love of light and color creating unique Stained Glass pieces and Jewelry. Creating Art is a way of life that shows up in everything she does. When she’s not painting, electroforming, cutting glass she can be found gardening, creating salves and oils from her herbs, cooking, spending time in Nature, enjoying her family, Volunteering with the Jericho Arts Council and enjoying live music. Her inspiration comes from the Music, Nature and Energy she enjoys in everyday life.
Chair tag:
“The Dot” is a story by Peter Reynolds. It features a young girl in art class who thinks she can’t create art. Her teacher asks her to just make a mark on the page. She does, and then her teacher says to sign it. She eventually makes more dots, and presents her work in a show. Anyone can be an artist. It’s not always about the final piece, sometimes art is just the process, and you have to sign it.

Kyle Hedlund #9 "Everything in a Galaxy of Reading is Awesome!"
My goal is to make a fun bright Lego oriented chair, using painted and actual Lego elements. Lego is something that kids immediately recognize and can relate to. Additionally it has a huge adult following as well.
Since I was very young reading and building with Lego have been some of my favorite things to do. Now having young children myself, we spend a lot of time doing the same. I've found the way these stories have lasted and the playability of Lego is something that can bring everyone together regardless of age, background, etc.
So, My goal was to create a culmination of the two worlds that all could relate to and enjoy. Being that I own KH Creations, a small local business based in Otego that specializes in various custom Lego models. I knew I wanted to bring the 22 different stories represented to life with Lego bricks to really make the chair stand out!
Can you find all 22 stories?
If you give a mouse a cookie
Harold and the purple crayon
The giving tree
Chicka chicka Boom boom
The very hungry caterpillar
Cat in the hat
Green eggs and ham
The lorax
Charlotte's web
Goodnight moon
Pete the cat
There was an old lady who swallowed a fly
Rapunzel
Jack and the beanstalk
Curious George
Winnie the pooh
The rainbow fish
Harry Potter
The series of unfortunate events
Lord of the rings
Wizard of Oz
James and the giant peach
Additional paint was donated by Hubcap Munchies in Norwich.
My goal is to make a fun bright Lego oriented chair, using painted and actual Lego elements. Lego is something that kids immediately recognize and can relate to. Additionally it has a huge adult following as well.
Since I was very young reading and building with Lego have been some of my favorite things to do. Now having young children myself, we spend a lot of time doing the same. I've found the way these stories have lasted and the playability of Lego is something that can bring everyone together regardless of age, background, etc.
So, My goal was to create a culmination of the two worlds that all could relate to and enjoy. Being that I own KH Creations, a small local business based in Otego that specializes in various custom Lego models. I knew I wanted to bring the 22 different stories represented to life with Lego bricks to really make the chair stand out!
Can you find all 22 stories?
If you give a mouse a cookie
Harold and the purple crayon
The giving tree
Chicka chicka Boom boom
The very hungry caterpillar
Cat in the hat
Green eggs and ham
The lorax
Charlotte's web
Goodnight moon
Pete the cat
There was an old lady who swallowed a fly
Rapunzel
Jack and the beanstalk
Curious George
Winnie the pooh
The rainbow fish
Harry Potter
The series of unfortunate events
Lord of the rings
Wizard of Oz
James and the giant peach
Additional paint was donated by Hubcap Munchies in Norwich.

Branden Hurd #1 "The Pale Blue Eye" Best Creative Concept
"Specializing in graphite
renderings, Branden tends to
lean towards showing the more
hidden, shadowed and taboo
aspects of the world around us.
He's recently developed a style
featuring a beautiful model with
aspects of an Xray style view,
showcasing the inner and outer
beauty. As well as creating a
representation of life and death
in nature by combining skulls
with the new growth coming
through."
"The realms of life, death and what comes before
All hide behind the pale blue eye"
"The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe
"Specializing in graphite
renderings, Branden tends to
lean towards showing the more
hidden, shadowed and taboo
aspects of the world around us.
He's recently developed a style
featuring a beautiful model with
aspects of an Xray style view,
showcasing the inner and outer
beauty. As well as creating a
representation of life and death
in nature by combining skulls
with the new growth coming
through."
"The realms of life, death and what comes before
All hide behind the pale blue eye"
"The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe

Dorene Ireland #2 "Wishing for Wonderland"
Wishing for Wonderland is a subtle nod to Lewis Carroll's famous adventure with Alice. As Alice dreams of white rabbits, wishing for her next adventure, she has no idea what waits just around the corner...
Dorene Ireland is a Unadilla artist who recently returned to the area. After retiring from several decades with Operation Merry Christmas, the Middle TN Anime Convention, and Geek Media Expo, she's rededicated her life to the arts and spreading a little color throughout the world. Dorene lives with her husband and at least 8000 cats.
Wishing for Wonderland is a subtle nod to Lewis Carroll's famous adventure with Alice. As Alice dreams of white rabbits, wishing for her next adventure, she has no idea what waits just around the corner...
Dorene Ireland is a Unadilla artist who recently returned to the area. After retiring from several decades with Operation Merry Christmas, the Middle TN Anime Convention, and Geek Media Expo, she's rededicated her life to the arts and spreading a little color throughout the world. Dorene lives with her husband and at least 8000 cats.

Samantha Ivey #8 "The Dragon Run" Award of Excellence
Graduate from Montclair State University in Montclair NJ 2001 BA in Fine Art/Illustration
Professional illustrator 2000 to present
Current Graduate Student: Adelphi University MA in Arts Education
Current resident in Greene, New York since 2014
Published work, Miss Mouse’s House
Chair inspired by "The Hobbit" and "Lord of the Rings"
Graduate from Montclair State University in Montclair NJ 2001 BA in Fine Art/Illustration
Professional illustrator 2000 to present
Current Graduate Student: Adelphi University MA in Arts Education
Current resident in Greene, New York since 2014
Published work, Miss Mouse’s House
Chair inspired by "The Hobbit" and "Lord of the Rings"

Christi Jordan #10 "Where the Crawdads Sing"
I first heard about the event from a friend and co-worker, Sam Olbrys. I am an art teacher at the Greene Central School District, and have taught at two other districts since earning my certification. Attached you will see some other works I have created.
The chair I’m looking to create is referencing the book “Where the Crawdads Sing.” The chair would be made to look as if it is a canoe coming out onto a winding river from under a willow tree. On the the arms of the chair will be aged and painted pages of the book itself giving the arms texture and dimension. The back of the chair would look as if the canoe is coming out toward the viewer from the willow. The art piece would not only be referencing the story but would be referring the curious, exploring component of being out in nature.
I first heard about the event from a friend and co-worker, Sam Olbrys. I am an art teacher at the Greene Central School District, and have taught at two other districts since earning my certification. Attached you will see some other works I have created.
The chair I’m looking to create is referencing the book “Where the Crawdads Sing.” The chair would be made to look as if it is a canoe coming out onto a winding river from under a willow tree. On the the arms of the chair will be aged and painted pages of the book itself giving the arms texture and dimension. The back of the chair would look as if the canoe is coming out toward the viewer from the willow. The art piece would not only be referencing the story but would be referring the curious, exploring component of being out in nature.

Donna Kazalski #5 "Down by the Riverside" Award of Excellence
When I was young, I loved to watch Bill Alexander painting on TV.
The scenes he created on his canvas were magical. I didn’t have money for art supplies, and had
never really thought I had that kind of artistic talent in me, so it was just purely for
entertainment at that point. Then came Bob Ross on the TV, and again, I started to soak up
some of those ideas and techniques, but college days were approaching, and so thoughts of
painting were set aside to spend my time in pursuit of my education. When I graduated from
college, I finally bought a few simple art supplies and did my first painting . It wasn’t bad. It
wasn’t great. But it was fun and relaxing, a great way to pass some time. I did a few paintings I
thought worthy of keeping and even hanging up…and I lot that weren’t! Then suddenly I was
married, I had a teaching job, and my daughter was born, and once again I set painting aside.
I taught 4 th graders at Bainbridge- Guilford Elementary school for 23 years. After being
diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, I decided to end my teaching
career and try to heal. For eight years, I was pretty content to just be at home. As my body
started to regain wellness, I began to need more to do. I picked up my brushes and my paints
and canvases and began to paint again, not for anyone else, just for me. I painted things that
made me happy. Sometimes friends would see my paintings and they’d tell me I should sell
them. I had no real confidence in myself as an artist. It was just a hobby, how could I really call
myself an artist? But people continued to encourage me, and I continued to try to improve and
learn, and I have been developing the courage and confidence to get out there with my work
and call myself an artist.
One day I was talking to a friend about how bored I was feeling, and how I wanted to do
something more. He asked me, “If you could do anything you wanted, what would you do?”
My answer was, “I would do art and music. I think it would be fun to teach those paint and sip
classes!” And he said, “Go for it. Find out what it would take for you to start a business, and
then do it!” That is exactly what I did. I researched how to start a business. I created a website
and sold my paintings online, at first. I started to share my work on Facebook. Then I rented a
wall to display and sell my work at Your Needful Things, a vendor shop in Binghamton, NY. I
bought all the supplies I would need to start up a mobile Paint Party business. I now do a
couple of parties every month, I do commissioned work occasionally, and I also sing and play
guitar at a few venues in the area.
I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead of me, as I polish the techniques I have
learned so far, and as I continue to gain new skills along the way. I am excited to bring the joy of
painting to others, not only through my own work, but also through giving people the
opportunity to take the brush into their own hand and create their own work of art.
Chair tag:
I don’t normally sketch anything out before
painting. I usually paint whatever I see in my mind, or from a photograph, and I only sketch first
if I am trying to reproduce a particular location exactly as it is. In this case, I’ll be taking
inspiration from my own experiences of the river, and also scenes from the movie that was
made based on the book, “Where The Crawdads Sing”, by Delia Owens. It would be a great
book to read by the riverside, I wish I had thought of doing that when I read it!
When I was young, I loved to watch Bill Alexander painting on TV.
The scenes he created on his canvas were magical. I didn’t have money for art supplies, and had
never really thought I had that kind of artistic talent in me, so it was just purely for
entertainment at that point. Then came Bob Ross on the TV, and again, I started to soak up
some of those ideas and techniques, but college days were approaching, and so thoughts of
painting were set aside to spend my time in pursuit of my education. When I graduated from
college, I finally bought a few simple art supplies and did my first painting . It wasn’t bad. It
wasn’t great. But it was fun and relaxing, a great way to pass some time. I did a few paintings I
thought worthy of keeping and even hanging up…and I lot that weren’t! Then suddenly I was
married, I had a teaching job, and my daughter was born, and once again I set painting aside.
I taught 4 th graders at Bainbridge- Guilford Elementary school for 23 years. After being
diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, I decided to end my teaching
career and try to heal. For eight years, I was pretty content to just be at home. As my body
started to regain wellness, I began to need more to do. I picked up my brushes and my paints
and canvases and began to paint again, not for anyone else, just for me. I painted things that
made me happy. Sometimes friends would see my paintings and they’d tell me I should sell
them. I had no real confidence in myself as an artist. It was just a hobby, how could I really call
myself an artist? But people continued to encourage me, and I continued to try to improve and
learn, and I have been developing the courage and confidence to get out there with my work
and call myself an artist.
One day I was talking to a friend about how bored I was feeling, and how I wanted to do
something more. He asked me, “If you could do anything you wanted, what would you do?”
My answer was, “I would do art and music. I think it would be fun to teach those paint and sip
classes!” And he said, “Go for it. Find out what it would take for you to start a business, and
then do it!” That is exactly what I did. I researched how to start a business. I created a website
and sold my paintings online, at first. I started to share my work on Facebook. Then I rented a
wall to display and sell my work at Your Needful Things, a vendor shop in Binghamton, NY. I
bought all the supplies I would need to start up a mobile Paint Party business. I now do a
couple of parties every month, I do commissioned work occasionally, and I also sing and play
guitar at a few venues in the area.
I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead of me, as I polish the techniques I have
learned so far, and as I continue to gain new skills along the way. I am excited to bring the joy of
painting to others, not only through my own work, but also through giving people the
opportunity to take the brush into their own hand and create their own work of art.
Chair tag:
I don’t normally sketch anything out before
painting. I usually paint whatever I see in my mind, or from a photograph, and I only sketch first
if I am trying to reproduce a particular location exactly as it is. In this case, I’ll be taking
inspiration from my own experiences of the river, and also scenes from the movie that was
made based on the book, “Where The Crawdads Sing”, by Delia Owens. It would be a great
book to read by the riverside, I wish I had thought of doing that when I read it!

Craig Laing #13 "Under Story"
My name is Craig Laing and I am a native of Bainbridge, NY. Throughout my life I have always enjoyed the arts and have had the privilege to work on numerous projects, both personal and public
In High School I helped design theater sets, painted the Welcome to Bainbridge Sign, and took several years of independent and advanced art courses.
The design I’m submitting for the 2023 Regatta Row is inspired by the novel, "The Overstory" by Richard Powers, which was itself inspired by the author's love of trees. One of the main themes of the novel is a reconnection with nature which seems in line with the Canoe Regatta tradition.
I hope that this design will express some of the wonder of nature, and inspire people to post up outside with their favorite book
Chair tag:
My chair design is entitled “Under Story”, which is inspired by the novel, The Overstory, by Richard Powers. The chairs design is inspired by the colors and wonders of nature as the day moves from night to day and back again; color and its variation are a big theme in my design. The design is also meant to evoke landscapes common to the Susquehanna Valley and will hopefully inspire it’s new owner to get outside and enjoy a book in nature. I've not designed a chair like this, so the process will be fluid!
My name is Craig Laing and I am a native of Bainbridge, NY. Throughout my life I have always enjoyed the arts and have had the privilege to work on numerous projects, both personal and public
In High School I helped design theater sets, painted the Welcome to Bainbridge Sign, and took several years of independent and advanced art courses.
The design I’m submitting for the 2023 Regatta Row is inspired by the novel, "The Overstory" by Richard Powers, which was itself inspired by the author's love of trees. One of the main themes of the novel is a reconnection with nature which seems in line with the Canoe Regatta tradition.
I hope that this design will express some of the wonder of nature, and inspire people to post up outside with their favorite book
Chair tag:
My chair design is entitled “Under Story”, which is inspired by the novel, The Overstory, by Richard Powers. The chairs design is inspired by the colors and wonders of nature as the day moves from night to day and back again; color and its variation are a big theme in my design. The design is also meant to evoke landscapes common to the Susquehanna Valley and will hopefully inspire it’s new owner to get outside and enjoy a book in nature. I've not designed a chair like this, so the process will be fluid!

Carol Lernihan #7 "From the Susquehanna to the Chesapeake"
By profession, Carol is a retired science teacher, registered nurse and a business owner in
Oneonta, N.Y. She is also a self-taught artist, known for folk and fiber arts. Carol belongs to
many art organizations and has had works of art in varied mediums on exhibit in juried and
invitational shows in New York State.
She began doing public art with her Visual Art students at the Northern Catskill Occupational
Center and has returned to that love in the last few years. She has participated in outdoor
sculptures in Catskill, Cairo, Saugerties, Hunter, Windham, Jericho Arts in Bainbridge, Glens
Falls, Albany and Boonton, N.J. She particularly loves giving back to the communities that she
services with Sunshine pRN, the medical-surgical supply store she operates and loves being in
the communities where she encouraged her students to participate.
Visiting the sculptures on the street with family, friends and especially, the grandchildren, makes
for great photos and fond memories
.
Reading a Guide to the Susquehanna River, my chair design will follow the river from Cooperstown to the Chesapeake detailing sights and info along the way.
By profession, Carol is a retired science teacher, registered nurse and a business owner in
Oneonta, N.Y. She is also a self-taught artist, known for folk and fiber arts. Carol belongs to
many art organizations and has had works of art in varied mediums on exhibit in juried and
invitational shows in New York State.
She began doing public art with her Visual Art students at the Northern Catskill Occupational
Center and has returned to that love in the last few years. She has participated in outdoor
sculptures in Catskill, Cairo, Saugerties, Hunter, Windham, Jericho Arts in Bainbridge, Glens
Falls, Albany and Boonton, N.J. She particularly loves giving back to the communities that she
services with Sunshine pRN, the medical-surgical supply store she operates and loves being in
the communities where she encouraged her students to participate.
Visiting the sculptures on the street with family, friends and especially, the grandchildren, makes
for great photos and fond memories
.
Reading a Guide to the Susquehanna River, my chair design will follow the river from Cooperstown to the Chesapeake detailing sights and info along the way.

Sarah Mahan Green #6 "The African Queen"
Sarah is a wife, the mother of 2 beautiful boys, as well as, 2 dogs and 4 cats, a Director of Volunteers and Outreach at a local non-profit organization, a board member of the CAC and her children’s school district, and an artist (when she can steal away a few moments and has the inspiration)! She has a B.S. in Zoology and a B.A. in Studio Art from SUNY Oswego, as well as an M.F.A. in Illustration from Western Connecticut State University. Sarah has had the opportunity to teach art to students ages 3 through adults during her 14 years living and working in Chenango County, and her favorite mediums are oil on canvas or graphite on paper and the subject matter that excites her most is portraiture, both of people and animals, as well as drawing “portraits” of people’s homes. She seeks to illicit a connection and some kind of an emotional response between the subjects in art she creates and the viewer. The title of Sarah’s 2023 chair proposal, given this year’s theme, is “The African Queen,” one of Sarah’s favorite River-themed books (and films!).
Sarah is a wife, the mother of 2 beautiful boys, as well as, 2 dogs and 4 cats, a Director of Volunteers and Outreach at a local non-profit organization, a board member of the CAC and her children’s school district, and an artist (when she can steal away a few moments and has the inspiration)! She has a B.S. in Zoology and a B.A. in Studio Art from SUNY Oswego, as well as an M.F.A. in Illustration from Western Connecticut State University. Sarah has had the opportunity to teach art to students ages 3 through adults during her 14 years living and working in Chenango County, and her favorite mediums are oil on canvas or graphite on paper and the subject matter that excites her most is portraiture, both of people and animals, as well as drawing “portraits” of people’s homes. She seeks to illicit a connection and some kind of an emotional response between the subjects in art she creates and the viewer. The title of Sarah’s 2023 chair proposal, given this year’s theme, is “The African Queen,” one of Sarah’s favorite River-themed books (and films!).

Carlylia Muller #19 "The Storyteller" Award of Excellence
Over the past ten years I have worked as an art teacher in a variety of schools including Eagle Academy for Young Men, AIM II Transfer School, and Bronx High School for Communication Arts. As of last year I am
happily employed at Cooperstown High School. In my free time I work as a freelance artist in the areas of
illustration, light design, graphic design, sculpture, puppet making and photography.
Some of my artistic highlights include:
Designing an album and t-shirt for the nerdcore rapper, Schaffer the Darklord.
Designing a postcard for the Miss. Coney Island annual burlesque contest.
Co-Producing an arts & music show entitled, Psychedelic Moods (Brooklyn, NY.)
Reason for Participating:
In 2002 I graduated Sidney High School. I am also loosely acquainted with several canoe regatta racers. I
moved to NYC and developed my career for fourteen years. After becoming a mom and moving back to the
area I am excited to participate in the community at large. Regatta row is a great opportunity to produce
something worth showcasing while expanding my artistic connections.
For the theme “Books by the Riverside” I sketched up my envisioning of The Storyteller. This storyteller elicits
emotion from their listeners through the passage of stories both literal and symbolic. The butterfly, snake, and
spider represent change through their metamorphosis or shedding., Amethyst stones in the corners of the
chair encourage healing. While the web represents being stuck, the center shows that hope and appreciation
is possible. The seat of the chair show two representations of the Susquehanna river. One of danger and
turmoil and one of peace and serenity. Both of which are important for all stories, real or made up. I wanted the
entire illustration to organically spread around the chair. Designs continue along the legs. The top will include
predominantly cool colors while the seat will include warm or neutral colors. The medium used will be
predominately acrylic with some sealant. Some areas may have light texture.
Over the past ten years I have worked as an art teacher in a variety of schools including Eagle Academy for Young Men, AIM II Transfer School, and Bronx High School for Communication Arts. As of last year I am
happily employed at Cooperstown High School. In my free time I work as a freelance artist in the areas of
illustration, light design, graphic design, sculpture, puppet making and photography.
Some of my artistic highlights include:
Designing an album and t-shirt for the nerdcore rapper, Schaffer the Darklord.
Designing a postcard for the Miss. Coney Island annual burlesque contest.
Co-Producing an arts & music show entitled, Psychedelic Moods (Brooklyn, NY.)
Reason for Participating:
In 2002 I graduated Sidney High School. I am also loosely acquainted with several canoe regatta racers. I
moved to NYC and developed my career for fourteen years. After becoming a mom and moving back to the
area I am excited to participate in the community at large. Regatta row is a great opportunity to produce
something worth showcasing while expanding my artistic connections.
For the theme “Books by the Riverside” I sketched up my envisioning of The Storyteller. This storyteller elicits
emotion from their listeners through the passage of stories both literal and symbolic. The butterfly, snake, and
spider represent change through their metamorphosis or shedding., Amethyst stones in the corners of the
chair encourage healing. While the web represents being stuck, the center shows that hope and appreciation
is possible. The seat of the chair show two representations of the Susquehanna river. One of danger and
turmoil and one of peace and serenity. Both of which are important for all stories, real or made up. I wanted the
entire illustration to organically spread around the chair. Designs continue along the legs. The top will include
predominantly cool colors while the seat will include warm or neutral colors. The medium used will be
predominately acrylic with some sealant. Some areas may have light texture.

Susan Robinson #17 "Dragon Heart"
Without imagination there would be no worlds with dragons, mermaids, or unicorn, and I find that sad. For these give my mind a freedom to experiment and relax. I do not categorize myself as an artist of only one discipline., as I do not restrict myself to only one medium in my artworks. I am a painter, a sculptor, a stone carver, a car letterer, as well...Enchanted Palette Art
Most of my art function is to hang on a wall to be enjoyed. This chair will be functional seating as well as an art piece. This is a great opportunity for exposure for my business to show people I am still a professional artist doing local projects, for local people.
Without imagination there would be no worlds with dragons, mermaids, or unicorn, and I find that sad. For these give my mind a freedom to experiment and relax. I do not categorize myself as an artist of only one discipline., as I do not restrict myself to only one medium in my artworks. I am a painter, a sculptor, a stone carver, a car letterer, as well...Enchanted Palette Art
Most of my art function is to hang on a wall to be enjoyed. This chair will be functional seating as well as an art piece. This is a great opportunity for exposure for my business to show people I am still a professional artist doing local projects, for local people.

Samantha Spalholz Olbrys #12 "Persian Chair" Best in Show
Hello JAC! We meet once again…long time no see. This year’s chair’s inspiration has emerged from my
newest
and most humbling experience of life; motherhood. As exhaustingly rewarding as motherhood is
(yes, I am fresh to this and hats off to all of you mothers) I truly enjoy sharing my passion and love of art
with my daughter, Serena.
Every night, Serena and I end our day by reading books together. My favorite nights are when we read
about artists from all over the world. Reading and sharing my love of Art with her is something I truly
cherish as an artist and a mother. It excites me to know I am exposing her to diverse cultures, art and
history. It is essential to invest in educating our youth to the world of art and culture as we aspire to
create a sense of respect and understanding in this evolving world.
Chair tag:
Book: Oriental Rugs by Peter F. Stone
This year my chair was inspired by Peter F. Stone's book; Oriental Rugs. Stone's book broke down the art and history of Oriental and Persian rugs. I was genuinely captivated by the meditative practice of various weaving and knotting methods. This chair depicts the beauty of the human touch; woven or painted.
Hello JAC! We meet once again…long time no see. This year’s chair’s inspiration has emerged from my
newest
and most humbling experience of life; motherhood. As exhaustingly rewarding as motherhood is
(yes, I am fresh to this and hats off to all of you mothers) I truly enjoy sharing my passion and love of art
with my daughter, Serena.
Every night, Serena and I end our day by reading books together. My favorite nights are when we read
about artists from all over the world. Reading and sharing my love of Art with her is something I truly
cherish as an artist and a mother. It excites me to know I am exposing her to diverse cultures, art and
history. It is essential to invest in educating our youth to the world of art and culture as we aspire to
create a sense of respect and understanding in this evolving world.
Chair tag:
Book: Oriental Rugs by Peter F. Stone
This year my chair was inspired by Peter F. Stone's book; Oriental Rugs. Stone's book broke down the art and history of Oriental and Persian rugs. I was genuinely captivated by the meditative practice of various weaving and knotting methods. This chair depicts the beauty of the human touch; woven or painted.

Julie Van Buren #16 "Patches and Pooh" Mayor's Award
I am new to painting since I retired last year. I live in sidney ny. I grew up in afton ny.
I mainly paint on rocks. I donate to a few stores that sell for DVHS. I also do some for gifts and some smaller pieces I do for my daughter to put out in Skylark diners flower garden for people to pick up for free.
I am also doing a small collection for sidney garden club to sell at their spring sale for garden clubs community projects.
I am feeling rather inadequate after seeing the beautiful chairs done in previous years, but will do my best if accepted.
I am thinking I would like to do Winnie-the-Pooh. My youngest daughter just loved him. I have done a larger rock painting as my basis for doing chair. I have incorporated Patches that was my grandson's must-have toy at same time my youngest had to have Pooh. It was our must haves at all times.
I am new to painting since I retired last year. I live in sidney ny. I grew up in afton ny.
I mainly paint on rocks. I donate to a few stores that sell for DVHS. I also do some for gifts and some smaller pieces I do for my daughter to put out in Skylark diners flower garden for people to pick up for free.
I am also doing a small collection for sidney garden club to sell at their spring sale for garden clubs community projects.
I am feeling rather inadequate after seeing the beautiful chairs done in previous years, but will do my best if accepted.
I am thinking I would like to do Winnie-the-Pooh. My youngest daughter just loved him. I have done a larger rock painting as my basis for doing chair. I have incorporated Patches that was my grandson's must-have toy at same time my youngest had to have Pooh. It was our must haves at all times.