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Taking inspiration in the divine

90-year-old woman showcases family artwork

T-R PHOTO BY SARA JORDAN-HEINTZ Local artist Venita Connley, 90, will be showcasing her various works of art now through the end of June inside the Fisher Community Center Auditorium, through the Central Iowa Art Association. Connley will hold a reception on Sunday, June 24 from 2-4 p.m. where she will be on hand to meet and greet attendees. Some of her family membersÕ artwork will also be on display.

Most nonagenarians spend their days doing quiet activities, but Venita Connley, 90, is always on the move. An author, poet and painter, she is hosting an art exhibit this month at the Fisher Community Center Auditorium, with a public meet and greet slated for June 24 from 2-4 p.m.

The artwork, consisting of around 60 paintings, were completed at different stages in her life. There are an additional six or so pieces in the show that were painted by her family members, ranging from her sister Vivian Crabtree (whom the show is dedicated to) and her children and grandchildren.

“It’s not just my show, it’s a family show,” Connley said.

Coordinated by the Central Iowa Art Association (CIAA), the works of art are on display now through the end of June.

“Venita is know by many in the art community, but showing her work this month gives her an opportunity to gain a wider audience,” said CIAA President Robert Moore. “The display is typical of what the CIAA is doing to fulfill its mission.”

Connley, who has resided in Marshalltown since 1946, specializes in landscapes, and most enjoys working with oil paint, rather than acrylic or watercolors.

Connley first discovered she had artistic talent in the first grade, in her native Missouri. She crafted a Santa Claus paper decoration, with movable parts.

“It’s in the show, and it is 80 years old,” she said.

She once took an art appreciation class at Marshalltown Community College, but otherwise has limited art training. She said various life responsibilities restricted the amount of time in which she had for her creative endeavors.

“I loved art. I did art in high school, and designed wall paper and wrapping paper. But I also had four children and worked, and was active with the American Red Cross,” she said.

When the health of her late husband James began to decline, the couple moved in with their daughter Lynnette in Colorado.

“When you’re around those beautiful mountains, you’re inspired to paint,” the artist said. “I like pretty things, and I love the Lord and His landscapes. I especially like the sky — He paints a different picture every morning,” Connley said.

Daughter Jinita Boyd of Marshalltown said she’s proud to see her mother’s artwork receive some attention.

“When I was growing up, she would draw us the most beautiful paper dolls with amazing clothes — that is the art that I have enjoyed the most,” Boyd said. “I am very proud of her. She is 90, having an art show, writes poetry, is fairly independent, and keeps an optimistic attitude.”

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Contact Sara Jordan-Heintz at

641-753-6611 or sjordan@timesrepublican.com

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