Artist Spotlight: Barbara Schultz

What type of art do you create?

“What’s Wrong with Charlie?” a story picture book for primary children, began in a workshop at the University of Minnesota. Since retirement, I have been doing oil painting and miniatures. This book is the culmination of all my experiences with children’s literature as a university professor and as an elementary school teacher.

The illustrations are all oil paintings.

Besides painting and making miniatures, I do quilting, crocheting, china painting, and stained glass.

When did you start making your art?

For as long as I can remember, I have been making things and drawing. I was able to use these skills in the elementary schools where I taught and in the teacher education classes at Ball State and Salisbury University.

Who is your favorite artist?

There are so many wonderful children’s book illustrators that it would be hard to choose just one. I like Jose Aruego, Garth Williams and Jerry Pinckney.

What inspires you?

All of the beautiful children’s books that are available today, especially ones by Barbara Cooney, Jerry Pinckney and Lorna Balian, and the support that has been given to me by friends and family.

Do you make a living through your art?

No, I am just enjoying my retirement.

Do you have a job outside of your art?

No.

What are the challenges of creating your art?

Dealing with publishing companies is a major challenge.

Where in the community can your work be seen?

“What's Wrong with Charlie?” along with other works is currently on display in the Atrium Gallery of the Guerreri Center at Salisbury University. The gallery is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. It is part of the book art show on display through Sept. 29. A book signing is planned at the Wicomico Public Library on Oct. 2 from 1-4:30 p.m.