Feb 5, 2025
TO HONOR AND REMEMBER — The Steubenville Art Association will hold its scholarship award program in memory of longtime member Llelia Buffone, whose husband, Leo, contributed to the scholarship committee this year. — Contributed
STEUBENVILLE — When we hear the word “artist,” our minds immediately turn to the greats — Raphael, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Cezanne.
Their masterpieces — some of which are nearly 500 years old — are still being admired by art enthusiasts today.
But these men were not born with a palette in their hand.
Each stared at a blank canvass, a blank surface, before applying that first brushstroke.
None was aware they would be creating a work that would be appreciated for all time.
Every great artist received their start in one way or another. And it is the hope of the Steubenville Art Association that one local high school senior will soon be receiving their start, as well.
The SAA will be awarding a scholarship to an upcoming graduate who dreams of continuing their education in the field of visual arts.
It is a tradition that first began long before today’s seniors were even born. The program honors the memory of Llelia Buffone, who was a longtime SAA member, having served as chair of the social and membership committees.
“She was a great artist who, whenever she sold a painting, donated the money back to the SAA,” recalled Judy Schmidt, president of the association.
“She attended and helped with meetings, workshops and art shows, and could always be counted on to be there for us,” Schmidt added. “I call her ‘the rose’ of the SAA. She and her husband, Leo, were valued friends to all of our members.”
“The SAA would like to thank Leo and his son, Luke, for their gift to the scholarship committee this year,” Schmidt continued. “Their kindness will benefit a local senior who will someday be another person that will add to the beauty of visual arts in our world.”
She explained high school art teachers at area school districts will be receiving information regarding the award from scholarship chair Jeanne D’Anniballe, who will invite them to submit their qualified art students’ pieces for consideration of the award. Gina Judy partners with D’Anniballe in viewing entries, and helps to make the scholarship decision.
“Jeanne and Gina are highly-educated in the visual arts,” Schmidt commented. “Both are retired high-school art teachers with many years of experience in judging art for talent.”
This year, the winning scholarship art entries will be shown at the Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Center in May.
Anyone who would like to nominate a senior who meets the criteria, can e-mail Schmidt at judyschmidt50@hotmail.com.
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