In late October, what would eventually be a 15-week series giving attention to the talent of local people began, wrapped around their creativity and the reflections they offered about their love of pursuing art.

Local artists spoke of their passions, inspirations and the meaning behind it all, for them, as not just painters and photographers but writers, musicians and performers of the penned word, beyond just on paper. The art of assemblage made an appearance, too, by the end-- showing how art can be brought to life through ordinary "found" objects, with smiles boasting through the building of it all.

The heart-stirred artist in each person I interviewed led to so many angles of realizing how special even something so simple as looking at life is—something every person I talked to offered impeccable senses-ready opinions about, often putting me in awe soon after I asked my questions.

And with all those examples, and everyone’s stories, it became very apparent how art has its place not only in individual lives but in connection with a community.

It brings people together, something often emotionally necessary in a time in the world when people are near each other but still so far apart, in some ways. The expressions of these highlighted artists showed that art is doing just what it should, playing its part, its human need, right in the Spring-Ford area. Bringing an eye into such a beautiful topic has been a privilege.

From the Editor:

Here we are again... The end of another remarkable and well-done series by our own Jen Hetrick. Jen has a wonderful ability with her words, doesn't she?

Look, I know arts aren't for everyone, but I'll tell you this... Although our readership loves its local government and breaking news, we saw a part of our community grow with Jen's writing. I think through it all, it was proven that our local artists matter, whatever their niche.

I certainly appreciate the arts more after diving into the lives of these local gems. So, I applaud our local artists, photographers, musicians and everyone in between. Thank you for letting us show the Spring-Ford community how awesome you really are.

Jen will be taking a hiatus from her "series" work, but rest assured, this is not the last we've seen of her. Personally, Jen, I'd like to say you've been a blessing in my work life and wish you all the best as we proceed through 2012!

Be sure to comment and let us know what you thought of the art series, or even the previous farm series. If you have any ideas, thoughts, concerns - give us a shout. And if you need anything else, let me know: kevin.haslam@patch.com.