2017 Award Winning Art at Oxford Cultural Arts Commission Gallery of Art Showcase
In recognition of Artistic Excellence for "Creative Reality" painting Eye of the Beholder (Skull and Petunias) This painting explores the morbid beauty of the human skull, surrounded with vibrant blooms with tiny ants that seek the flowers sweet nectar. "I am fascinated with people and their bodies inside and out. This is the second painting I have done in exploring this subject. The first one was done as a requested commission and during that time I was so enraptured into the whole painting experience I just had to revisit the subject but changed the types of flowers and insects in the composition. After finishing this one, I again felt drawn to the subject and switched my medium to oils and painted another skull and flowers. I have yet to quench my desire of painting skulls and am currently in the work of a fourth painting."
The painted image I originally captured on film a frigid winter day on a walk on the local beloved Green Way which overlooks the rivers and was frozen. The sun was already beginning its decent and the reflections of ice were emphasized by colors of moody blues. I was drawn by the contrasts, color scheme and composition of the landscape. I added in a Great Blue Heron at the edge of the bank, tho he wasn't present that particular day, he is a common resident we have often observed.
Awarded Volunteer of the Year presented by TEAM, Inc of Derby CT 2013
This award is for JoAnna's volunteer dedicated efforts of more than 60 hours of a mural painted in the stairwell of TEAM"s Ansonia, CT Head Start Preschool on Howard Avenue.
In 2012 hired by Team, Inc
JoAnna was hired as substitute preschool Teachers Aide working weekly with children ages 3-5 thru out the Valley in private and public schools. Activities included meal prep, reading and writing, exercise, arts and crafts, language development, and of course supervision!
In 2009 acheived Certification of Nurse's Aide by the State of CT
Right at graduation, JoAnna was offered a job and served her community as a home health aide for home bound patients offering companionship, meal prep, personal grooming and hospice care for several years.
Awarded Second Place at Milford CT Firehouse Gallery February 2008 Exhibit "Love"
For the first time JoAnna entered a public juried exhibit and submitted two pieces for consideration. The theme for the month was "Love" and her abstract piece was selected to be featured in the gallery showing and also won Second place.
2001 Awarded First Place for Seymour High School Student Arts Showcase
In the yearly students' showcase, JoAnna received 1st place for her drawing of Pink Rose done in colored pencils. Her artistic reputation was known thru out the school, as she attented as many art classes and drafting classes as her schedule would allow. She was also a member of the school choir, the after school program of Women's A'Cappella and the Drama Club.