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... ... ..... ... .. ... . .,,. _ ..... _,.. , ., ...... .... . -· - ·-- Showcase Page 6 October 28, 2003 A Gifted Artist With A Uni CHRIS GILLMORE Staff Writer Rhonda Snyder is a gifted artist with a new lease on her work. Rhonda is 29 years old and has been in the Alpena Community College art program for two years now. Rhonda started out as a nurse, changed her mind , and is now enrolled under a directed studies program working with ceramics, design, and sculpture. Her medium of choice is clay. While starting over, Rhonda is described by instructors in the Arts Program as being "diligent" and a "perfectionist". She is a boost for the Arts Department." Sandy, Ceramics I Instructor, says of Rhonda. "She has a great eye for balance." Rhonda is not afraid of a challenge. In sculpture she takes on a difficult and yet beautiful piece and in ceramics she is taking on a more daunting task of making an actual working BMX bicycle. This is a tremendous undertaking when taking in consideration that virtually everything on the bike will be made of clay. The only things that will not be created by her are the tires, chain, and brakes. This was inspired by the fact that her son, husband, and she are all avid bike enthusiasts. Rhonda is very proud of her work. The greatest thing about art she says is "it makes you think." She also believes it opens a creative outlet for anyone involved. "If you create a piece of art, it comes from your head and if it's original, no one can take that work away from you," she said. "It is a lasting legacy of your work." Rhonda isn't sure of her goals for the future. For now she just wishes to take care of her family, work on her art, and enjoy life as it comes.