ARTIST OF THE WEEK | Greta Bell of Batavia

by Mindy Kyle

THIS FUN & WHIMSICAL ARTIST DELIGHTS & MARVELS IN OH, SO MANY WAYS

Batavia artist Greta Bell considers herself lucky to have been brought up in a family that loved the arts. She has memories of visiting artists in their studios, attending author readings and enjoying musical events. Although she has had no formal training, she works in many art mediums, currently focusing on marionette building, Claymation movies and oil painting. “I’m a very curious person,” says Greta, “and that helps inspire me to create art in different ways.”

One of Greta’s more unique and whimsical works is her R/Evolving Circus which is a pop-up, interactive carousel that sets her art in motion. The story wheel is created on-site as Greta paints several 2 by 4-foot panels that depict some of the onlooker’s treasured stories or memories. As she assembles the work, it is placed on an 8-foot, handmade, bicycle powered carousel.

You may also find Greta at an art fair playing and telling tales with her handmade marionettes. “I want to bring forth joy and happiness through my art and inspire smiles,” says Greta. “I’m so happy to be a part of the Fox Valley artist groups and to be supported by our community.”

To check out Greta’s marionettes, R/Evolving Circus and many paintings, visit her website at www.gretabell.com or on Instagram under @gretabellart.

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