Schutz Finds Inspiration in Artistic Challenges

By Alex Prodoehl '22, Communications Apprentice
December 14, 2020

On a snowy afternoon in November, Maura Schutz '22, with an enthusiastic mien, joined me to discuss her myriad of endeavors in the world of art.

Discovering her passion for art at the age of four, Schutz was often found with a coloring pencil in hand, ready to sketch. In middle school, she decided she wanted to pursue a career as an artist, and has focused on furthering her artistic talent at CDH. Reflecting upon her time at CDH, Schutz states, “Taking art classes at CDH has helped me grow and figure out what I want to do, specifically what type of art.”  

Schutz has taken three different art courses during her time at CDH: Printmaking I, Drawing I, and Drawing II. Art teacher Suzanne Cranston has been instrumental in supporting Maura throughout her artistic career. Cranston continues to be impressed by Maura’s dedication to creating innovative works of art.

“My favorite experience is seeing how she takes the assignment and customizes it into something that represents what she’s interested in,” Cranston said.  

With a truly distinctive style, Schutz’s artwork varies from delicate to daring, exemplified through her choice of utensil, texture, and design elements. She continues to be an indubitably idiosyncratic artist in her attention to detail, craftsmanship, and creativity. 

“When I met Maura, her creativity level was very high, and it continues to be high, and she seems to dive into her creativity every day,” Cranston said.  

Outside of art classes, Schutz is involved in projects within the local community. Whether it be creating program covers from the dance studio she previously attended or working on a portrait to send to someone overseas, Schutz continues to grow and develop as an artist and individual.  

Last year, at an auction through CDH for the arts program, Schutz created her most significant piece of artwork, giving her the daunting task of its sale. Enjoying the way in which the process was conducted and the chance to take on an exciting new challenge, Schutz was inspired to create one of her favorite pieces of artwork to date.  

A beautiful depiction of a deciduous tree landscape sprinkled with snow, the piece was bought at the auction during the holiday choir showcase. 

“It was new for me to do something that could possibly be sold. It gave me a new challenge, and I really enjoyed doing it,” Schutz said.  

Schutz’s current favorite medium is the seemingly simplistic colored pencil, leaving vibrant color in its wake, especially when paired with toned, tan paper.  

However, Schutz’s favorite project so far was a charcoal drawing of a cactus she created in Drawing I. Intricately designed and artfully portrayed, the drawing was created with the rare but potent medium of charcoal, emphasizing the meticulous design.

“It was my favorite because I had never worked with charcoal before,” Schutz said. 

Schutz hopes to venture even further into the art realm in college, deciding upon her main focus of artistic medium.

“As I go to college and focus on a career in art, I hope to emphasize the type of art I aspire to create,” she said.

Alexandra Prodoehl '22 is a Communications Apprentice. She is involved in Mock Trial, enjoyed working for Sweet Martha's Cookies at the 2019 State Fair, and has taken writing courses at the Loft Literary Center in addition to her classes at CDH. She hopes to pursue a career that involves writing.