304 State Street, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Let's talk about YOUR artwork!
Showcasing incredible talent and celebrating our local artists for over 15 years!
Meet OurArtists
AMY BERGERSON
stefanie buysse
AMY BERGERSON
I believe Art is a language, a way of expressing thought visually. I am drawn to fiber, not only because of the variety of possible natural materials, but primarily because of the dialogue that we share. I enjoy the hands-on work and find if calming. Using no real form or planning, the outcome of my work is determined by the progress of i
I believe Art is a language, a way of expressing thought visually. I am drawn to fiber, not only because of the variety of possible natural materials, but primarily because of the dialogue that we share. I enjoy the hands-on work and find if calming. Using no real form or planning, the outcome of my work is determined by the progress of it. Often, I find myself absorbed in the process and the materials themselves, determining the path. As we work together toward transformation, we bring new life and identity, exposing their beauty, spirit and essence, and in turn renewing my own.
ROBERT BRIGGS
stefanie buysse
AMY BERGERSON
Bob is originally from Northwest Indiana and has been painting and drawing his entire life. He currently paints mostly landscapes and scenes of the Lake Michigan coastline. He focuses on mastering the mediums of acrylic paints and watercolors. He draws inspiration from nature and finds many of the subjects for paintings in the local dunes
Bob is originally from Northwest Indiana and has been painting and drawing his entire life. He currently paints mostly landscapes and scenes of the Lake Michigan coastline. He focuses on mastering the mediums of acrylic paints and watercolors. He draws inspiration from nature and finds many of the subjects for paintings in the local dunes and wetlands. Some of Bob’s paintings were done decades ago, and they feel like old friends, while others were painted in the last few months.
Bob now lives in St Joseph and only recently joined the Chartreuse Gallery, where he is looking forward to being a part of a distinguished group of talented artists.
In his free time, Bob enjoys kayaking, bicycling, hiking, and community theater.
stefanie buysse
stefanie buysse
stefanie buysse
My work is a reflection of what surrounds me every day — nature. It is the inspiration for the art that I create. A constant search to interpret the ideas that I have in my mind, places I travel, it must speak to my heart. It is the connection I hope others embrace. I seek the challenge to create art with a sense of balance, pattern and h
My work is a reflection of what surrounds me every day — nature. It is the inspiration for the art that I create. A constant search to interpret the ideas that I have in my mind, places I travel, it must speak to my heart. It is the connection I hope others embrace. I seek the challenge to create art with a sense of balance, pattern and harmony. Organic, industrial, rustic, functional — it’s how I describe my work. I have always desired change. I look for ways to make it happen and never limit myself to one medium: jewelry, mixed media, photography, clay. My hands are all in. I am an artist. If there is one thing that I hope to achieve with my art, it is a connection. When a viewer stops and takes a moment to observe and collect a piece I have created, it is then that I have succeeded in making that connection. See Stefanie's website at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ARTandElements
dana davis
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
stefanie buysse
For as long as I can remember, I have found real passion in creating with my hands. My inspiration comes from nature, travel, heritage, history and folklore. Growing and harvesting my own herbs and flowers to use in my soaps is very satisfying to me. Using leaves, shells and pieces of nature to press into clay creates a memory of a beaut
For as long as I can remember, I have found real passion in creating with my hands. My inspiration comes from nature, travel, heritage, history and folklore. Growing and harvesting my own herbs and flowers to use in my soaps is very satisfying to me. Using leaves, shells and pieces of nature to press into clay creates a memory of a beautiful place I have visited. Finding caustic, vintage bottles of mystic colors and embellishing them with vintage finds, makes me wonder what story they tell.
Life offers so much beauty from so many places and experiences that it causes a desire deep within me to created art reflecting what I see and feel.
GREG HAYES
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
Gregory (Greg) Hayes, now retired, has spent over seven decades as an amateur woodworker and was employed professionally in the engineering field. His fascination with woodworking started in his youth and continues to today.
Over the years he has added additional processes to his resume, his current venture is wood carving.
Other than his
Gregory (Greg) Hayes, now retired, has spent over seven decades as an amateur woodworker and was employed professionally in the engineering field. His fascination with woodworking started in his youth and continues to today.
Over the years he has added additional processes to his resume, his current venture is wood carving.
Other than his family, he is most proud of his military service as a helicopter door gunner (Always be yourself, unless you can be a door gunner, then always be a door gunner) and even though he considers himself a novice woodworker, he is proud to display his work at Chartreuse Art Gallery.
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
ELLEN BENCSICS HEITGER
I have always been intrigued by people who write their first novel, run their first marathon, or begin a new career after the age of 50, never imagining I would be one of them. My venture into art began in 2011 while teaching and living in Indiana. I started with pencil sketches, soon tried watercolor, played with acrylic, and discovered
I have always been intrigued by people who write their first novel, run their first marathon, or begin a new career after the age of 50, never imagining I would be one of them. My venture into art began in 2011 while teaching and living in Indiana. I started with pencil sketches, soon tried watercolor, played with acrylic, and discovered a passion for art that was unlike anything I have experienced.
Since retirement I have attempted a variety of subjects and mediums, even painting clothing and teabags. I love the challenge and enjoy the anticipation of seeing how a piece turns out. Art allows me to play with shapes and colors, while experiencing a freedom I had not previously known as a lifelong musician and career educator. I hope when you see my art, you feel my joy!
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
When I was in third grade, I won $15 in an art contest. I realized right then and there, that I wanted art to be a major part of my life. I worked as a graphic artist for many years before discovering my love of clay. I appreciate how forgiving and flexible clay is, and that my imagination and creativity can be expressed in so many ways w
When I was in third grade, I won $15 in an art contest. I realized right then and there, that I wanted art to be a major part of my life. I worked as a graphic artist for many years before discovering my love of clay. I appreciate how forgiving and flexible clay is, and that my imagination and creativity can be expressed in so many ways within this medium.
My fascination for nature shows itself often in my work, as does my Irish heritage and passion for gardening. I get a thrill from sharing what I make with my loved ones, friends and customers.
I hope to be creating with clay until I’m one hundred years old, or for the next 45 years, whichever comes first.
BARB KIRBY
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
To me, photography is something that lives in my soul. Thinking outside the box is my motto and having fun is a must! My purpose is telling a story with the things I create. Whether it’s a simple photograph or some of my artwork, I want my creations to leave a lasting impression to those who view them. My hope is that I am an inspiration
To me, photography is something that lives in my soul. Thinking outside the box is my motto and having fun is a must! My purpose is telling a story with the things I create. Whether it’s a simple photograph or some of my artwork, I want my creations to leave a lasting impression to those who view them. My hope is that I am an inspiration for others, am able to expand their horizons and reach for the stars. We are the stories we tell…I hope you enjoy mine.
JOEL MASHKE
MARGARET HOGEBOOM
JOEL MASHKE
My story begins over 50 years ago, in the Industrial Arts program in high school, where my favorite class was Wood Shop. Since then, I’ve worked in manufacturing, learning and perfecting machining skills. I’m inspired from seeing the visual form and shape in everyday objects. After acquiring an antique lathe and some woodworking material
My story begins over 50 years ago, in the Industrial Arts program in high school, where my favorite class was Wood Shop. Since then, I’ve worked in manufacturing, learning and perfecting machining skills. I’m inspired from seeing the visual form and shape in everyday objects. After acquiring an antique lathe and some woodworking materials, my love of wood turning began, and it was love at first sight! I began to read books and watch videos on wood turning every chance I had. When starting a new project, I go through the same process. Having already decided what shape I'm going to turn, I select the piece of wood I am going to use, which is so important to the end result. Many things have to be considered; is the wood green or dry, the color, variety and grain structure. There are no two pieces of wood that are the same, even out of the same log or board. I love turning a piece of wood into a piece of art or a useful item. Sometimes you talk to the wood and sometimes the wood talks to you.
ROBIN MAXON
CATHY PAMPALONE
JOEL MASHKE
I experimented with various mediums before discovering the joy of watercolor over 25 years ago. My painting style has evolved to have an illustrative component with an emphasis on realism. I paint a wide range of subjects as I attempt to capture a moment, the play of light and shadow, and the nuances of color. I live in St. Joseph, Michi
I experimented with various mediums before discovering the joy of watercolor over 25 years ago. My painting style has evolved to have an illustrative component with an emphasis on realism. I paint a wide range of subjects as I attempt to capture a moment, the play of light and shadow, and the nuances of color. I live in St. Joseph, Michigan.
I’ve been part of Chartreuse since 2015. I am a member of the Michigan Watercolor Society, Krasl Art Center & Berrien Artist Guild. I enjoy painting commissions of pets, home portraits, and a variety of other subjects. See Robins website at http://www.robinmaxon.com/
MOLLY MORAN
CATHY PAMPALONE
CATHY PAMPALONE
While walking past a store window, I fell in love with the most unique necklace. I went inside to ask the price, which was $250. Leaving somewhat saddened, knowing I couldn’t afford it, I decided right then that I was going to make a necklace similar to it.
That was 25 years ago and more than 2,000 pieces of my own, original jewelry later
While walking past a store window, I fell in love with the most unique necklace. I went inside to ask the price, which was $250. Leaving somewhat saddened, knowing I couldn’t afford it, I decided right then that I was going to make a necklace similar to it.
That was 25 years ago and more than 2,000 pieces of my own, original jewelry later!
As an elementary teacher, I know each of my students is a unique individual. I approach my art utilizing the same philosophy. Each piece of jewelry begins when I select the beads. I am blessed with the ability to visualize the finished piece even before it is started. All my jewelry is created using Mother Nature’s gifts of semi-precious stones, minerals, glass, paper and metals.
CATHY PAMPALONE
CATHY PAMPALONE
CATHY PAMPALONE
Cathy discovered the art of fused glass later in life. Her wonder of nature is often reflected in her work.
Cathy creates landscapes, functional dishes, as well as pieces in a rare technique called Sgraffito. After careful manipulation, her pieces are fired in a kiln. Cathy also creates paintings using inks and often adds wax. These rich a
Cathy discovered the art of fused glass later in life. Her wonder of nature is often reflected in her work.
Cathy creates landscapes, functional dishes, as well as pieces in a rare technique called Sgraffito. After careful manipulation, her pieces are fired in a kiln. Cathy also creates paintings using inks and often adds wax. These rich and colorful inks are blended together with specialized tools to make one-of-a-kind paintings in vibrant colors.
Creating art provides balance in Cathy’s life; time away from work and “to do” lists that can often monopolize our time in each day, providing balance.
Cathy hopes to continue learning and creating well into her 90’s and will continue to “look to her future” as her mother often said.
Meet OurArtists
BECKY ROTTER
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
I’ve always been truly excited by color and pattern, and I love watching something take shape from my very hands. I find it satisfying to construct a piece and add handles, spouts, lids, feet and other additions until a finished form comes together. I’m influenced by my surroundings. Leaves, flowers and birds from my wonderful gardens, an
I’ve always been truly excited by color and pattern, and I love watching something take shape from my very hands. I find it satisfying to construct a piece and add handles, spouts, lids, feet and other additions until a finished form comes together. I’m influenced by my surroundings. Leaves, flowers and birds from my wonderful gardens, and images from the Lake Michigan shoreline, such as fish and water, appear on my creations.
It’s fun to imagine my customers using my artwork at cherished times in their lives, when they are dining with family and friends. The love of beautiful dishes inspires me to make various serving pieces, highly decorated with colorful slips and glazes. I hope that by sharing my work with others, it enhances their personal spaces and brings enjoyment to their lives.”
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
After taking a multitude of art courses, including drawing, painting, jewelry, life drawing, textiles and weaving, ceramics, sculpture, glassblowing, intaglio and relief, paper and book making, and art history classes that never seemed to end, I found my niche in stained glass! I discovered stained glass while working in an art supple sto
After taking a multitude of art courses, including drawing, painting, jewelry, life drawing, textiles and weaving, ceramics, sculpture, glassblowing, intaglio and relief, paper and book making, and art history classes that never seemed to end, I found my niche in stained glass! I discovered stained glass while working in an art supple store, and it’s been my passion ever since.
After teaching for 40+ years, I retired from teaching art at a rural country school to pursue my love of stained glass. I’ve been working in glass for over 38 years.
I love using color, texture and form to create works of art. I especially like making windows for churches and places of reflection. I also do restorations, repairs for homes, businesses and churches, as well as commission work.
MONIKA WAYNE
MAY SCHULTZ-REED
MONIKA WAYNE
Growing up in Switzerland I received regular arts and crafts lessons, including crocheting and sewing from 3rd grade on throughout high school. It was mandatory, but I loved it all and always felt so calm and fulfilled during the creative process. Life’s path take many detours and becoming an artist was not in the cards. My work as a tran
Growing up in Switzerland I received regular arts and crafts lessons, including crocheting and sewing from 3rd grade on throughout high school. It was mandatory, but I loved it all and always felt so calm and fulfilled during the creative process. Life’s path take many detours and becoming an artist was not in the cards. My work as a translator took me to an international city, where I met my American husband, with whom I moved to Granger, Indiana in 1992.
After taking a few fiber classes with my daughter, my artist’s soul was re-awoke...the love of color, patterns, texture — the visual world! I love to play with stitches and different yarns, imagining new patterns. I even like the little math involved when I must measure and count to create my original pieces. I follow patterns, but I am the happiest when I just start to work on a vision I have for a piece. My work is transportable and matches the needs of my travelling soul — never do I have to part from my projects for long.
dave wheeler
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
MONIKA WAYNE
Early in 2008, I was shopping at my favorite bookstore in St. Joseph, looking for, what else, a photography magazine. Upon leaving the store, I glanced across the street and saw this store with a somewhat strange name: Chartreuse Artist Co-Op. Well, the rest, as they say, is history!
I joined the co-op in March of 2008. In June of 2008, I
Early in 2008, I was shopping at my favorite bookstore in St. Joseph, looking for, what else, a photography magazine. Upon leaving the store, I glanced across the street and saw this store with a somewhat strange name: Chartreuse Artist Co-Op. Well, the rest, as they say, is history!
I joined the co-op in March of 2008. In June of 2008, I retired after 36 years of teaching in the public schools.
My interests in taking photos came from my father. I still have hundreds of slides he took dating from the early 50’s. I took my first formal class in photography at Florida’s Brevard Community College in 1974.
My wife and I live in Watervliet, MI, on beautiful Paw Paw Lake.
BOB WILLIAMS
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
Bob specializes in oil, pastel, and charcoal portraits and figures but also produces landscape, still life, and narrative compositions. Recently he has also been sculpting portrait busts in clay. He has completed many commissions for private and corporate communities.
Bob's passion is portraiture. He is an accomplished portrait artist whos
Bob specializes in oil, pastel, and charcoal portraits and figures but also produces landscape, still life, and narrative compositions. Recently he has also been sculpting portrait busts in clay. He has completed many commissions for private and corporate communities.
Bob's passion is portraiture. He is an accomplished portrait artist whose creations capture more than just the likeness of his subjects, they also portray the visual beauty of their character and personality. With the careful posing of his subjects, his skillful technique in handling the medium, and the vivid use of color in his representation of skin tones, he brings out the expressions, moods, and emotions that makes his paintings more than just portraits, but pieces of artwork to be treasured for generations.
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
SARA STUDER / 2 cozins
“Drawing has always been an adventure. I remember as a kid drawing at our kitchen table on Saturday morning. It is still a surprise just who will show up on that blank page! A joyful, satisfying bonus of drawing is being able to make people giggle, smile or even laugh! I am so grateful and thrilled to be working with my cousin Liz on 2 C
“Drawing has always been an adventure. I remember as a kid drawing at our kitchen table on Saturday morning. It is still a surprise just who will show up on that blank page! A joyful, satisfying bonus of drawing is being able to make people giggle, smile or even laugh! I am so grateful and thrilled to be working with my cousin Liz on 2 Cozins. The icing on the cake! She has always been the sister I never had and she is such an important person in my life. We grew up together.
Sara was born in Ft. Wayne, IN and raised in Michigan City. She graduated from Indiana University and drawing has always been her passion. At age 14 she put away her toys and amused herself by creating picture stories.
LIZ BURNHAM / 2 cozins
Terry Strayn / PHOTOGRAPHY
GENE GAMBER / MIXED MEDIA
“Writing and expressing my thoughts has always been my passion. My father told me stories at bedtime that included the elephants - Inky, Pinky and Stinky that come alive in our books, cards and artwork. Collaborating with my cousin Sara, who is really more like my sister is inspiring and exciting. Her imagination and life’s insights are
“Writing and expressing my thoughts has always been my passion. My father told me stories at bedtime that included the elephants - Inky, Pinky and Stinky that come alive in our books, cards and artwork. Collaborating with my cousin Sara, who is really more like my sister is inspiring and exciting. Her imagination and life’s insights are so unique. The illustrations are superb and inspirational. We are both so happy for the support and love of our family and friends.”
Liz was born and raised in Michigan City, IN and graduated from Indiana University. Always part of the creative community involved in music and dance on and off stage. Liz’s professional marketing career included The South Bend Symphony, The Joffrey Ballet, Art in Progress, Pivot Point International and 3Com Corporation.
GENE GAMBER / MIXED MEDIA
Terry Strayn / PHOTOGRAPHY
GENE GAMBER / MIXED MEDIA
I enjoy art because the process has taught me to let go of worldly distractions and enjoy the present moment. When I am in the present, I am at my most creative. Working on art allows me to live in the now and brings out creative talent that only surfaces when I am not thinking about the past or future. The first step in the creative proc
I enjoy art because the process has taught me to let go of worldly distractions and enjoy the present moment. When I am in the present, I am at my most creative. Working on art allows me to live in the now and brings out creative talent that only surfaces when I am not thinking about the past or future. The first step in the creative process is to pick an art project and give it a try. Initially you may not like what you have created but keep experimenting with all the different ideas that pop into your head. The more you experiment with new techniques, the more ideas will come to you. The new ideas are almost overwhelming. Eventually you will complete a piece you like and know you can improve on. You are now on your way to a creative place that will bring you true joy and pleasure. The last art form I attempted took me three years to reach a place where I felt good enough about my work to share with others. Art is an ever evolving process. Start an art project today and enjoy the journey.
Terry Strayn / PHOTOGRAPHY
Terry Strayn / PHOTOGRAPHY
Terry Strayn / PHOTOGRAPHY
Terry is an International Award winning black and white photographer that specializes in landscape and fine art.
“I love taking urban and seascape photos. My greatest thrill in photography is taking a boring photo and turning into dramatic black and white photo.
My photography journey began several years ago when my girlfriend (now wife)
Terry is an International Award winning black and white photographer that specializes in landscape and fine art.
“I love taking urban and seascape photos. My greatest thrill in photography is taking a boring photo and turning into dramatic black and white photo.
My photography journey began several years ago when my girlfriend (now wife) bought me a camera as a gift. I instantly became addicted to creating images. The journey wasn’t easy. I am self-taught; it took years of practice and hundreds of You Tube videos to get to where I am today. I am getting better each year but there is so much more I want to learn. My goal is develop my own style and have someone instantly know it’s one of my prints.
So, why only black and white?
I believe the main reason for my love of black and white is that it removes the distractions that color photos tend to introduce. I think color complicates a scene and causes your eyes to get pulled in several directions, not knowing what you should be looking at. You do not have this distraction in black and white. You know the subject as soon as you look at the photo and your eyes go directly to it. I believe this type of photography conveys a sense of drama and mystery that is missing in color photos. The strong contrast between dark and light releases a strong emotional response that sticks with a person longer than a color photo.
Plus black and white is just cool.