Sheryl Finch’s art has been purchased from people around the country. Named Suzie Cappa Art Center’s 2020-2021 Artist of the Year, Sheryl is known for her colorful paintings of animals, especially llamas, owls, goats and most recently, roosters.
Yet, as recently as five years ago, Sheryl would have told you she was not creative. In 2015, a staff member with Black Hills Works suggested she give art a try at the Suzie Cappa Art Center.
“I was very nervous my first day at Suzie Cappa,” said Sheryl. “I was never very creative and didn’t know I could draw. But, then I thought ‘why not.’”
She started doing Mod Podge art, a process where paper or fabric is torn and layered on a canvas or object to create a textured, colorful look. She soon graduated to ink drawings and ultimately painting.
“Sheryl is always willing to challenge herself and has learned many new art techniques,” said Carla Julius, Studio Manager for the Suzie Cappa Art Center. “She is known for her paintings but she is always willing to try something new.”
Thanks to the possibilities opened up to her through art, Sheryl and her sister, Diane, started a business called Heart Works Crafts.
Sheryl meets a lot of people through their craft shows and is quick to sing the praises of the Suzie Cappa Art Center and Black Hills Works.
“I meet a lot of people with my business. I am always talking about Black Hills Works and telling them that I work at the Suzie Cappa Art Center,” she says with a smile. “I love it here. I love the staff.”
“Sheryl’s business with her sister, Diane, was inspired by her involvement in the Suzie Cappa Art Center,” said Carla. “She and her sister even went to Maine for the opening of the Road Ahead Show, a traveling contemporary art show featuring artists with disabilities from around the country.”
Family is very important to Sheryl. She has two beautiful grandchildren and a third on the way. Her young nephews have also “shadowed” her during a workday at the Suzie Cappa Art Center.
Sheryl enjoys using her imagination every day and learning new techniques in the classes offered at the art center. Sheryl’s kind and vibrant personality is reflected in each of her pieces.
CONGRATULATIONS, SHERYL!
