Jerry Walters, a retired Art Professor at Mineral Area College (MAC), is set to be honored at the Mineral Area Council on the Arts K-12 Art Show Awards Ceremony for his remarkable contributions to arts education. The special ceremony will take place on Friday, April 25th, at the Cardinal Center in the Industry and Technology Center, commencing at 7 p.m. Attendees will witness the unveiling of a permanent display of Jerry Walters, featuring a photograph.
Walters’ 42-year tenure at MAC exemplifies his unwavering commitment to cultivating artistic talent and appreciation.
- His high school art teacher sparked his passion for art, leading him to Southern Illinois University on an art scholarship.
- Walters earned a Bachelor of Science in Art Education in 1964 and a Master of Arts in Art, Education, and Design from the University of Kansas in 1969.
Walters’ international impact extends far beyond the college walls. He led over two dozen European tours for students and community members, often serving as their personal guide.
- These tours not only broadened the students’ horizons but also gave Walters a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for his lectures.
- His extensive travels in Italy, in particular, enriched his artistic vision and informed his teaching.
As a practicing artist, Walters specializes in woodcut relief prints, exhibiting his work in regional, national, and international competitions.
| Awards and Recognition | Year | Competition | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Award for Excellence in Printmaking | 2007 | National Printmaking Competition | Recipient of the award for outstanding contributions to the field of printmaking. |
| Best in Show | 2010 | Midwest Printmaking Competition | Awarded for his outstanding work in printmaking. |
“Jerry Walters’ influence on Mineral Area College and the arts community is immeasurable,” said Kurt Bauche, Vice President of MAFAA.
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