One Artist. Two Stories. One Powerful Reflection on Memory.

Throughout August 2026, the Wassenberg Art Center is proud to present two compelling solo exhibitions by Ohio artist Michelle Walker. Captured Memories and Deeply Grounded explore the enduring connections we hold to the people and places that shape us. Through expressive charcoal drawings and luminous paintings, Walker invites viewers into deeply personal moments of remembrance, presence, and love – revealing how art can preserve what time cannot.

Artist Reception: Saturday, August 15, 4pm-7pm

Captured Memories: Quiet moments and reflections of hope with my dad

Captured Memories is a collection of 84 vine charcoal drawings created during visits with my dad as he lived with Alzheimer’s. This time was deeply unpredictable, and I never knew what mood would greet me. Yet one constant remained: when I opened my sketchbook, a sense of calm settled over both of us. 

Drawing became a way to be present. It allowed me to listen, observe, and stay grounded in moments that were often fragile. As I sketched, I asked simple questions, and his responses, sometimes tender, sometimes humorous, sometimes unexpected, became small treasures. I wrote his words directly onto the pages, allowing his voice to live alongside the drawings. Some visits I would leave with three or more sketches, and despite how hard it was, I found myself wanting to return. 

These works honor the quiet moments we shared. Through charcoal, I preserved fragments of conversation, gesture, and emotion…creating a body of work rooted in presence, love, and attention.

Deeply Grounded: Holding onto memories just outside my door

This body of work includes vine charcoal drawings and paintings made in the woods and natural, organic flower beds that surround my home. These are the places I move through every day, noticing what grows, changes, and quietly persists.

I paint outdoors to slow down and pay attention. Whether I’m standing among the trees or kneeling to paint summer flowers, I’m responding to light, weather, and season. The act of painting becomes a way of being present with the land I care for.

I often think of these paintings as a way of carrying this place with me. Trees change, homes change, and one day I may leave this land — but through painting, I can take what has grown around me along for the journey.