When you add up their years of volunteer work, University School of Nashville parents Anna Cramer (Alice ‘28, Caroline ‘22, and Lucy ‘24), Magda Schleicher (Sofia ‘32, Luli ‘34, and Siena ’37), and Libby Scanlan (Amelia ’27) have provided almost 30 years of service to the school. That’s so appropriate as they chair Artclectic’s 30^th event.

“The 30th anniversary of Artclectic feels significant and I am honored to be a part of it,” says Libby. “I am excited about a fantastic line up of diverse artists, a fabulous featured artist who I love and respect, a growing student art show, and an interactive arts Discovery Day!”

The chairs put in almost a year’s worth of work to ensure the success of Artclectic and each of its components. From selecting the participating artists through a multi-layered jury process to planning each detail of the events to providing meaningful art education experiences and hand-on activities, every element of Artclectic is carefully and thoughtfully designed.

“I love the combination of creativity and USN community,” says Anna. “I love Education Day and watching the students wander the gallery asking the artists questions that even the artists had not considered before. For me, it demonstrates the special sauce of what makes USN unique.”

The parties and other special events bring together the larger USN community of family and friends along with neighbors and art lovers from throughout Middle Tennessee. Thousands of visitors get a glimpse of USN throughout the weekend.

“I love how it brings our USN community together since there is something for everyone,” says Magda. “Whether you are coming purely just for the art, for either the Patrons Party or ARTbash to enjoy art and some drinks with friends or coming to Discovery Day with your kids and enjoying the activities as a family, it’s got something for everyone. It also allows artists from our school and outside community to showcase their work which I think is very special.”

What’s your favorite memory from a past Artclectic? My favorite memories are the conversations with an artist just after I ask if I can buy one of their pieces. It ranges from surprise to tears to enthusiasm but in every conversation, deep gratitude. I especially felt that gratitude during Covid. Art was dropped off at my porch or through socially distanced parking lot hand offs. The artist was grateful. USN was grateful. I was grateful. And it felt like an important part of our community spirit continued.

What’s your favorite piece of art that you’ve bought from Artclectic? I can’t pick just one! Most of the art in my home comes from Artclectic. My husband and I love that the art on our walls goes to support a local artist and USN.

Do you think of yourself as creative? If you asked me this question five years ago, I would have said no because I wasn’t a painter, a sculpturist or a traditional artist. However, I’ve widened my definition of creativity. I love to create by baking (especially sour dough bread), writing, and sewing. My daughters always kid me that when they have a crafty school project, I always want to help. I am creative in my own ways.

Who is your favorite Artclectic artist? My favorite artist was my dad, Adrian Luchini, who participated for two years. He has sadly passed away recently but his art fills my house, some of which I purchased at Artclectic. I do not have much artistic ability but the little that I have came from my dad. I loved his simple, contemporary style; it was bold and powerful.

Do you think of yourself as creative? I am definitely not creative-ha ha.

Who are your biggest artistic influences? My father by a long shot. His aesthetic eye in art, style, fashion, and home design inspire me in the artistic choices I make.

What’s your favorite memory from a past Artclectic? I loved bringing a new kind of hands-on creative experience to Discovery Day last year.

What’s your favorite piece of art that you’ve bought from Artclectic? I could never pick a favorite, but I am so proud of the many pieces I have collected from Artclectic over the years. From the painting over my mantle to the smaller works throughout my home and art studio! They all bring me such joy!

Do you think of yourself as creative? What inspires you to create? I am an artist and art educator. My own work is made up of many materials including metals, painting, and ceramics. It is inspired by the natural world. I consider teaching to be my greatest creative act — there is such beauty in bringing people together to create!