The setting for a large part of a North Vernon artist’s career will now provide a venue for a passion of hers.
The artwork of Barbara McHone Rodgers will be on display at A Perfect Day Cafe, 221 E. Walnut St. in North Vernon, from Wednesday through July 28.
“I worked for 31 years as the head bookkeeper for the insurance agency in the same building where the cafe is now. It feels odd that my art will be on display there now. I am excited about that,” said Rodgers, who added that her son-in-law Richard Varns calls her “Indiana’s Grandma Moses,” a reference to the popular folk artist who didn’t begin painting in earnest until age 78.
Born in New Albany, Rodgers and her husband Bill moved to North Vernon 51 years ago to start their insurance business. They raised two children, Brad and Brenda.
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After Bill died, she eventually closed their insurance business and spent some time in Florida, but returned to North Vernon to live.
“My favorite things to paint are my favorite things in Indiana,” Rodgers said.
Interested in art since childhood, Rodgers studied in art in high school and carried that interest throughout her life.
“My art was most important to me when things were difficult. When times were hard, my art helped me get through it,” Rodgers said.
She will display work in several mediums, including oil, acrylics, water colors and ink pen. Her work includes nature scenery, flowers and historical objects. A featured part of her display will be individually-painted tiles suitable for display on tables and shelf space.
“I am 82 years old and I figure if I am ever going to show my art it should be soon, so, I agreed to do this,” Rodgers said.
Visitors can see Rodgers’ art during normal business hours at A Perfect Day Cafe, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Prints of original artwork and tiles will be available for purchase.
