SUCCESS STORIES Freddie's On the Job |  An Artistic Dream  |  Rick's Story   "An Artistic Dream" Three aspiring artists from Cornerstone recently realized their dream of visiting a professional artist studio and learning how to assemble their own portfolio, thanks to artist Richard Schmidt.   Richard invited Joyce, Judy, and Erika to his home in Frankfort, Illinois after learning from Cornerstone’s vocational manager Terry Ber that it was their dream to meet a professional artist and visit an art studio. “He had a beautiful house,” said Joyce. “It makes me happy that I saw a real artist and he liked my work.” Schmidt also reviewed their artwork and gave them advice on matting and framing. He showed them where and how to sign their art so the signature blends in with the piece. Most importantly, he encouraged them to seek out local places to exhibit their work. “We showed him our artwork and he said we are real artists!” added Erika. “It was outstandingly wonderful, outstandingly great! I am just the happiest woman you can ever imagine in the world! “He liked my drawings,” said Judy. “I gave him one of my drawings. Richard and his wife Betty gave the three visitors and staff member Terry Ber a tour of his home studio to see where he works. At the end of the tour, he presented the visitors with matted prints of one of his paintings. “Richard said ‘You gave me one of your drawings so I’ll give you one of mine!’” added Joyce. “I was happy to see his work and he gave me one of his paintings!” Joyce also offered some advice of her own to anybody with a similar dream: “I would tell everybody that can draw to do your best!” “His pictures that he painted were really, really beautiful!” added Judy. “I was very happy to meet the artist and his wife Betty and to see his studio!” For more information, call 815.741.7600.

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