2 weeks Ago By Lisa Brotherton-Barnes
Jerry Walters discusses his artwork with gallery patrons at a past showing of his work at Mineral Area College. Submitted photoThe Mineral Area Fine Arts Academy (MAFAA) is set to celebrate the extraordinary career of Jerry Walters, retired Mineral Area College (MAC) Art Professor, for his more than four decades of dedication to arts education. A special ceremony will take place on Friday, April 25th, honoring Walters’ profound and lasting impact on the college and the wider community.
The celebration will begin at 7 p.m. at the Cardinal Center in the Industry and Technology Center during the Mineral Area Council on the Arts K-12 Art Show Awards Ceremony.
Following this, at 7:30 p.m., the commemoration will continue in the Fine Arts Theater lobby, where a photograph of Jerry Walters will be unveiled and permanently displayed, serving as a lasting tribute to his remarkable legacy.
Jerry Walters’ 42-year career at MAC (1969-2011) exemplifies his dedication to cultivating artistic talent and appreciation. His high school art teacher ignited his passion for art, leading him to Southern Illinois University on an art scholarship. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Art Education in 1964 and a Master of Arts in Art, Education, and Design from the University of Kansas in 1969.
Walters’ teaching career began in Kansas junior high schools and then moved to Illinois, eventually leading him to Mineral Area College. He played a pivotal role in designing the art rooms at the new MAC campus and expanded the curriculum to include printmaking, ceramics, humanities, and metalsmithing. Notably, through his metalsmithing and welding classes, he facilitated the addition of sculptures near the North College Center.
Beyond his classroom contributions, Walters was deeply invested in student enrichment. He sponsored the student art club, organized art shows, and led museum field trips. He also managed a library art gallery showcasing local and regional artists.
He was chairman of the fine arts department, coordinator of the evening and Saturday programs, and a key figure in the College for Kids summer program.Walters’ impact extended internationally. He organized and led over two dozen European tours for students and community members, often serving as their personal guide.
His extensive travels, particularly in Italy, enriched his lectures and provided firsthand knowledge of art, architecture, and culture.A practicing artist himself, Walters specializes in woodcut relief prints. He exhibits his work in regional, national, and international competitions and earns numerous awards and recognition.
He has also shared his expertise by conducting printmaking workshops at universities across the Midwest and East Coast and serving as a judge for numerous art shows.“Jerry Walters’ influence on Mineral Area College and the arts community is immeasurable,” said Kurt Bauche, Vice President of MAFAA. “His dedication to teaching, his artistic vision, and his commitment to fostering a deep appreciation for art have enriched the lives of countless individuals.
We are honored to celebrate his extraordinary career and lasting legacy.”.
