Ruth began creating artwork as a child, but set it aside during her career years. She resumed painting during her retirement. She worked in all media and favored many subjects such as landscapes, portraits and flowers.

Vauta began painting more than 20 years ago. She also made baskets, cutting boards and carved wooden dolls. This piece was her first donation to the MDA Art Collection.

Joann has been painting for many years. She attended Stanford University and is a charter member of the Kentucky Very Special Arts Association.

Ferdinand began painting in 1994 after receiving a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis. This painting was done from a photograph of Dr. Jonathan D. Glass, director of the MDA/ALS Center at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta.

A recognized artist, Lynette studied in San Francisco and at the Joslyn Center for the Arts in Torrance, Calif. Many of her works focus on depicting the American prairie. Her award-winning work has appeared in numerous juried shows, including the Portland (Oregon) Art Museum; Boise State University; Corbin Art Center (Spokane, Wash.) and the Gallery Genesis, Chicago.

Sybil is a freelance art history lecturer and art instructor as well as an artist. She has received numerous awards in juried shows, and her paintings are included in several private collections. Sybil was honored in Who’s Who in American Women in 1995-1996 and was named recipient of MDA’s 1996 State Personal Achievement Award for Florida.