Lacey Kids 'Officially Artists' After Selling Work at Art Show

A young boy said, “good work” to his friend after a painting was sold at an art show held at the Recreation Department’s office Thursday night.

Four young artists displayed their artwork after participating in classes through the Recreation Department. The kids were under the guidance and instruction of professional artist Joszie, who works with oil, acrylic, charcoal, graphite, combinations and other mix medias.

“I really like to draw, express my feelings,” John Fedlam, 9, said. “It’s just fun. It makes me happy.”

Fedlam has been drawing since he was 3 years old and enjoys drawing trains. He wrote and illustrated his first book, The Fruit Flies, when he was just 6 years old.

Joszie wanted the artists to have the full professional experience, she said. Each class highlighted a specific technique such as textures, blending and mixing. The paintings were acrylic, charcoal, watercolor and colored pencil.

Then, Joszie reached out to local businesses that would sponsor the students. Each student did a painting that pertains to a business. There were paintings based on salons, delis and more.

Ken Disharoon, owner of Bicycles Unlimited, purchased a painting of a bike created by Kaeli Feeney, 7.

“I thought it was a great idea,” Disharoon said of his involvement.

Having a painting purchased made Feeney “feel really good,” she said. “That’s how I know people like it.”

“(The art classes) inspire me to learn about art and I want to make it look more real,” she said.

One of her paintings was of her gold fish.

Mayor David Most found the artwork “impressive.”

“These young children actually produce some fine artwork,” he said, thanking Joszie for inspiring them.

Paintings — most of which sold — were priced at $10 or $15 with the money going directly to the students.

“The one way to be an artist in the art world is to sell,” Joszie said. “Each of them has sold. They’re officially artists. I’m extremely proud of all my artists.”

Sophie Ferruzza, 11, and Brandy Dillon, 9, also had artwork displayed and sold at the show.

The Recreation Department is now taking registration for anyone interested in participating in the winter session of Art with Joszie.

The 10-week program will take place at the art classroom in the Mill Pond School on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 17. The fee for the course is $220 per person with an additional fee for the art kit if needed. The art kit can be purchased from the instructor or a material list can be provided.

Residents can register for the program at the art show, by mail or at the Recreation Department located at 818 Lacey Road, directly behind the police department. The office is open Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

For more information call 609-693-1100, ext. 2203.