Bio

Carol has always been a creator, starting with sewing doll clothes and then designing and sewing her own clothing. Over the years she has used a variety of mediums with her creative artwork. Her expressive voice is currently through leather.
Her passion is to sculpture free-form leather vessels, she works with a variety of leathers and embellishments’ for designing her artwork. The vessels are made from vegetable-tanned leather and are truly a one-of-a-kind creation. The leather has the longevity and beauty only an artisan-created product can sustain. The original fibers of the animal’s hide add to its character making each piece unique along with her addition of dyes, stains and paints.
Carol graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a teaching degree, majoring in photojournalism. Upon graduation, her career in the hospitality industry started in Nebraska and crisscrossed the US several times, working for many major hotel companies as well as independent resorts landing in Scottsdale in 1992.

Artist Statement

Leather inspires me since it offers many possibilities with the different textures and finishes. My vision of how the leather wants its history and story represented is reflected and carried forward in my artwork. At times the hides seem to speak to me on how they want to be portrayed from an artistic viewpoint.
I hand select each vegetable tanned leather hide embracing all the holes, markings and texture knowing the original fibers of the hide add character. These unique features are purposely worked into the artwork creating interest and a focal point. This leather has the longevity and beauty only an artisan-created product can sustain.
Each vessel is hand sculpted using a wet free-form molding process and dried naturally. My selection of stains, dyes and special finishes makes my one-of-a-kind leather vessels unique.
My greatest joy comes from seeing the finished pieces since no two leather hides are exactly alike because each has a different history.

Bio

Sharon Hernly is a gifted tradition artist whose childhood within the enchanting landscapes of rural New Mexico profoundly influences her creative vision.  Infused with the vibrant spirit and color palette of Southwestern culture, history, and landscapes, her oil painting transcend art – they are a heartfelt journey that celebrate the region’s rich past and dynamic present.

A lifelong love of art has guided Sharon’s path. To refine her skills and achieve her goal of becoming a master painter, she sought mentorship from renowned master artist and teacher Stefan Baumann. She continues to deepen her artistic expression through workshops and online classes, constantly striving for artistic growth.

Cherished by collectors and art enthusiasts alike, Sharon’s work graces private collections across the United States and Europe.

Now residing in Arizona, she draws endless inspiration from its breathtaking vistas and cultural richness. Through her creations, Sharon invites viewers to share in her artistic journey—one defined by passion, perseverance, and an enduring connection to the Southwest.

Bio

Paul Dolter is a retired Air Force Civil Engineer, and a retired District Engineer for the East Valley Water District located in Highland, California.
His keen interest in Photography began in 1968 when he was introduced to photography using 35mm film.
Upon retiring from Engineering in 2005, he devoted more time to perfecting the art and craft of digital photography with more sophisticated cameras and computer techniques.
This innovative gear has allowed him to transcend the traditional typical photo techniques used by photographers to the more unique renditions only previously enjoyed by gifted artists through their respective media.
He has enjoyed photographing a wide variety of subjects such as beautiful western landscapes, colorful Sunsets, interesting people, charming animals and the abundance of incredible artwork created by club members.
When appropriate, he has used enhancement tools the emphasize the more distinctive aspects of the subject matter.
Paul has entered several local and statewide competitions and has enjoyed receiving numerous awards for his impressive work.
In many instants, Paul has sold his work or was compensated handsomely for his photographic services!