Volunteer

Meet Nancy Ackerman!

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"I was born and raised in southwest Georgia and lived most of my youth growing up on a quail plantation where my father was the farm manager. I believe it was during this time that I developed a deep appreciation for nature and wildlife. My mother always grew beautiful flowers and vegetables and today I share her passion.

   In 2010, a dear friend, (my second mother,) Beth Boutwell and I moved both our empty nests from south Georgia to Helen where we were soon invited to the arts center by the late, Rudy Potesta, to learn pottery making. We did learn pottery and gained a lifelong friend in doing so. I was later invited to join a group of painters who met on Thursdays. I became a regular of the group and learned more than I could have ever hoped for. They said, “paint as often as you can and one day it will click.” Today, painting is what I love to do and somewhere along the way, I guess it clicked!

I've been a member volunteer in some capacity since 2010, serving as Volunteer Coordinator, Vice President and President of the Board, and then employed as Executive Director. After taking some much needed time away, I now teach acrylic painting and fused glass and I volunteer each month to help with the center's newsletter. 

 I am thankful for the creative gift given and honored that pieces of my work are in homes across the country. I enjoy teaching and it's my way of helping others progress on their creative journey. It was because of the member artists at Helen Arts who taught me and inspired me to be better, to never give up and be open to learn new things. I believe art is important to a healthier self. It quietly takes us to a place of solitude and peace where it heals and soothes our soul.”

 

Submitted by Flynn Gentry-Taylor

HAHC Volunteer Coordinator