Diana de Avila’s discovery of her artistic gift is an unusual story that began after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the delayed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is one of a very few people worldwide to have what is known as Acquired Savant Syndrome. 

Wilma Davidson, who wrote the inspirational, non-fiction hybrid memoir Soldier, Sister, Savant, will speak about Diana’s unique path to becoming an inspirational artist, as well as featuring examples of her art. 

Lynn is a self-taught artist. She is mostly a realist artist but loves delving into abstract as well. Her favored medium, currently, is colored pencil, but she also frequently uses graphite, acrylics, pastels, watercolor, oils, and inks.

Join us for our book club get-together to discuss "The Night Portrait: A Novel of World War II and da Vinci's Italy” by Laura Morelli. It is an exciting, dual-timeline historical novel about the creation of one of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous paintings, Portrait of a Lady with an Ermine, and the woman who fought to save it from Nazi destruction during World War II. 

Patricia Anderson Turner does not shy away from controversy in her life or her art. In her award-winning mixed media art, she explores complex socio-political issues. Her work reveals her passion for social justice as she addresses issues as varied as gun violence, white supremacy, and climate change. 

Take a guided tour of the paintings and sculptures owned by Arts Advocates on display at the Van Wezel. After that, step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide will give you a peek behind the curtain and share stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business!

A show of four Arts Advocates members who are also veterans: Diana de Avila, Jessica Hartman, John Quigley, and Mark Wiseman (pictured).

This talk features John Quigley, Mark Wiseman, and Jennifer Hartman who, following military careers, pursued their dreams of careers in art.

Take a guided tour of the paintings and sculptures owned by Arts Advocates on display at the Van Wezel. After that, step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide will give you a peek behind the curtain and share stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business!