Waubonsee Community College is showcasing the artwork of local artist Marie Von Ohlen in a new exhibit titled “Marie Von Ohlen: An Artful Life.” The exhibition, which runs through December 12, 2023, is located at the Sugar Grove campus in the Arrowhead Room Gallery of Dickson Center. It honors Marie’s significant contributions to the college and the local community, reflecting her legacy as a “prolific” painter who played a pivotal role in the formation of the institution.
Marie Von Ohlen, who died of breast cancer at the young age of 42, was a dedicated artist and mother. Her daughter, Ellen Von Ohlen, recalls her mother’s passion for painting, particularly her landscape watercolors created during outings with friends from the Aurora Art League. Despite her early passing, Marie’s influence and artistic vision continue to resonate, thanks in part to Ellen’s efforts to preserve her mother’s legacy.
The inspiration for this exhibit emerged after Ellen, now 69 and residing in Oswego, expressed interest in showcasing her mother’s artwork to Brian Knetl, the current president of Waubonsee Community College. Ellen had previously donated some of Marie’s paintings to the college, which Knetl recognized during renovations of the fine arts building. After receiving a heartfelt thank-you for the donations, Ellen proposed the idea of an exhibit, which Knetl eagerly supported.
The exhibition features 21 paintings, with some available for purchase, and all proceeds will benefit the Marie E. Von Ohlen Memorial Endowed Scholarship. The scholarship, established with funds from Ellen’s father, Dale Von Ohlen, aims to support future students at the college. Dale, who played an instrumental role in the founding of Waubonsee Community College in 1966, served as its first board president and actively contributed to the institution’s development until 1983.
Marie Von Ohlen’s connection to the college extends beyond her husband’s leadership. As an artist, she designed promotional materials that helped garner support for the new college. Her artistic journey began at the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied architecture—a field largely inaccessible to women at the time. She later worked in advertising before dedicating herself to her family and community.
The public reception for the exhibit is scheduled for November 19, 2023, from 16:30 to 19:30. This event will include a lecture by Ellen Von Ohlen, who will discuss her mother’s life and her contributions to the college. Ellen’s reflections on her mother highlight not only her artistic talents but also her enduring legacy within the community.
Ellen’s personal connection to Marie’s art has deepened as she has spent time collecting and restoring her mother’s work. Among her cherished pieces is a painting titled “Be Still and Know That I am God,” created during Marie’s battle with cancer. This artwork resonates with Ellen, as it captures her mother’s emotional struggle while also reflecting her artistic spirit.
As the exhibit opens, it serves as a poignant reminder of both Marie Von Ohlen’s artistic legacy and her family’s commitment to education and community service. Through this showcase, Waubonsee Community College honors a woman whose influence helped shape the institution long before it opened its doors. The exhibit not only celebrates her artwork but also inspires future generations of artists and students.
