MY RAC STORY by Nancy Heyna
“The RAC probably saved my life and I’m not being hyperbolic.”
A photo collage that includes a self-portrait by Nancy Hejna
In the Spring of 1995, I signed up for a class at the RAC with Fern Valfer, a big step after years of artistic neglect. I was interested in learning how to work with color and it was a great experience. Also, at the time, as president for the Riverside Junior Women’s Club, I had the privilege of presenting Jennifer Taylor (RAC founder) with their first, large donation that same year.
My affiliation with RAC then took off exponentially — as a long time student of Tom McDonald, board member and secretary, doing much of the grant writing, and even as a part-time employee as gallery manager for a short stint, all over the span of almost 20 years. I was honored to have two exhibits in the gallery, one solo and one with good friend and an amazing artist, Jim English. I was also the first to exhibit at the Township Hall.
Garry and Jennifer Taylor-Henderson remain my closest friends and I even followed them to Miller Beach, Indiana where Garry and I volunteer at the Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts, doing the same tasks — Garry installs exhibits, as he did for decades at the RAC, and I am on the board writing grants as well as heading up exhibits.
Jennifer has brought her own astounding creativity to Miller with the “Sparkle House” (a story you must pursue as she is amazing).
The RAC probably saved my life and I’m not being hyperbolic, finding me at a very difficult time. It has certainly had a huge impact on my artistic pursuits.
Tracing back to the origin of numerous long term, treasured friendships inevitably leads back to my involvement with the RAC. I am forever grateful and forever proud of the work we did together, and equally thrilled that it continues to thrive.
Submitted and written by Nancy Hejna - thank you, Nancy!
MY RAC STORY BY SUSAN KENN
“The RAC changed my life,”
The RAC changed my life.
As a creator I had lost my way, a chance encounter led me to a weekly painting class with Tom McDonald. Tom has a remarkable gift for meeting you where you are. He understood what you needed rather than pushing his own style or process. Through his guidance, I found myself as a painter. Even today, I still hear his voice in my head when I work.
Best of all, I made lifelong friends.
The RAC has a genuine spirit that you can truly feel. It's a place that inspires creativity, connection, and belonging.
Submitted and written by Susan Kenn - thank you, Susan!
What’s YOUR Story?
Are you one of those folks who was at RAC from the beginning? Or maybe a decade ago? Or maybe you were here more recently? We all have a story to tell about RAC, and RAC is now collecting those stories. Will you share yours with us? Link here to submit your RAC Story
We have also started an archive of postcards, flyers and newsletters documenting all the artists and teachers who came through RAC. Stay tuned as we begin to publish! And maybe you have some you can share with us? Email afilmer(at)riversideartscenter.com