Thursday, December 11, 2008

Clayton Resident Selected as Artist For White House Ornament


Clayton artist Cheryl Micaela McCardle has been selected by Congressman Bob Etheridge to create an ornament for the White House Christmas tree and represent the 2nd District of North Carolina.




McCardle and her husband, Van attended a reception for the artists at the White House on December 2, 2008 where she was able to view her ornament on the tree located in the blue room in the East Wing of the White House.

McCardle spent many hours sketching designs. The artist chose to illustrate scenes from the Mountains to Sea Trail, stating “North Carolina is an amazing state that has something for everyone. This theme illustrates all of the wonders of the state.” The ornament features images of North Carolina mountains with Carolina pines flowing into a Piedmont field and tobacco barn, and finally resting upon the image of red brick Currituck lighthouse.



A painter and sculptor, McCardle received a Bachelor's degree in Studio Arts from George Mason University in Virginia, with a focus in painting. The artist’s painting subjects have evolved from traditional landscapes into a contemporary abstract style. Her art has been exhibited in Raleigh and the surrounding areas. States McCardle, “I’m always anxious to learn and experience new things about art. My education continues to expand through drawing, painting and sculpture classes. I feel that art should be an ongoing process, never stagnant.”

Cheryl and her husband Van currently reside in Clayton. Involvement in community programs has been an important part of McCardle’s life. She is a member of Raleigh's Visual Art Exchange, and has worked with the Johnstonian Visual Artists, Clayton Visual Arts and served as Secretary to the Johnston County Arts Council. McCardle actively participates in local events and works to bring arts' awareness to the community by teaching art and creativity classes in the local area.