Submitted
More than 50 years ago, artists Robbie (Hoff) Lamoreux, Randy Schlitter, and Margie (Denning) Hammerschmidt studied art together in classes at Hays High School under the instructions of Mr. Crawford Russell and Mr. Robert Channel. After graduating in 1972, Robbie, Randy, and Margie went their various ways and pursued different paths, but creating visual art remained important to each of them. At their recent 50-year Class Reunion in October 2022, the three classmates reconnected and began to explore the possibility of continuing their art journeys together.
In a current exhibit in the Schmidt Gallery of the Hays Public Library, 1205 Main, entitled “Three Point Perspective” they have brought together a sampling of their artwork, representing their unique perspectives, tied together with their shared beginnings. The exhibit will be on display until the last week of April.
Their painting styles, techniques, and mediums are diverse and are influenced by their own experiences and growth as individual artists.
Robbie lives with her husband Gary outside Baldwin City, KS where they raised their two children and owned and operated Arrowhead Hardware in Baldwin for over 30 years. Robbie now works part-time at an antique store in the nearby town of Ottawa. She is widely recognized for her watercolors that reflect fresh and clear colors of local subject matter including sunflowers.
Randy lives with his wife Michele “Shelly” in Hays. He owns and operates RANS Aircraft. His drawing and design talents have been instrumental in his success as an aircraft designer. His art style spans the range of realistic pencil drawings, abstract and fantasy acrylics, and organic and geometric paintings.
Margie lives in Hays with her husband Elden where they raised their two children. Margie retired after a 40-year career in healthcare, after which her interest in horticulture led her to study and become a Master Gardener. Examining botany drawings reignited her interest in art and she has since created a wide portfolio of watercolor paintings of the natural environment and personal connections as well as commissioned work.
In addition to combing their work into the current art exhibition at the library, these three artists have recently spent time together creating art. Perhaps more importantly, they are committed to continue to inspire and encourage each other in their art progression, just as they did back in the Hays High School Art Room Annex in the 1970’s. If you stop by the Hays Public
Library to view their art, feel free to jot a note in the Guest Book to let them know you were there.