There is a tendency to view our local artists through the long-standing stereotypical lenses as being lofty dreamers and flaky hippy types who need to “get a real job.” However, this caricature grossly misrepresents the myriad of visual and performing artists working and living in the San LorenzoValley and ScottsValley areas. I was fortunate to recently interview local artist, Linda A. Levy in her art studio in an attempt to take a behind-the-scenes peek into the lives, work, and inspiration of one of our local artists.
Ms. Levy is a fascinating blend of biological research scientist, (yes, that’s right, research scientist!), musician, local volunteer, ceramicist, figurative drawing specialist, digital artist, and jewelry maker. She’s also sassy, quick-witted, extremely intelligent, and is enamored and inspired by marauding ravens, decaying rust-colored urban walls, and textures that she finds in her everyday life that appear “at the edges and in the cracks of stuff.”
This eclectic mix of scientist and artist has resulted in works of art that have been displayed regionally as well as in international on-line world wide exhibits. Her local art studio features much of her current work—ranging from an almost life size human ceramic sculpture, to dozens of multi-media works involving ravens (“they are picking at my brain,” she quips), as well as numerous figurative drawings and handmade jewelry items.
She has also contributed enormously to the local arts scene as a volunteer, having served as the SLV Arts Center Director for 10 years, on the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County Board for six years, as the Chair of Open Studios for another four years, and as our 5th District Santa Cruz County Arts Commissioner for the last two years. She recognizes that she “gains immeasurably by helping others,” and that her volunteer work gives her perspective and a sense of community that translates back into her work as an artist.
Her work can be seen at The Tannery Arts Center, Studio #125, as well as at the MountainArtCenter in Ben Lomond, or by visiting www.LindaLevy.com.
Dr. Kathie Kratochvil has been on the Theater faculty and Creative Arts faculty at San Jose State University for over 20 years. She has worked professionally in the performing arts community in Santa Cruz County in various capacities and is currently with the Mountain Community Theater in Ben Lomond.
