When it comes to the transformative power of an education in the arts, look no further than Robert and Maureen Barker – and their establishment of a new scholarship that supports emerging artists.
Robert (B.F.A. ’65, M.F.A. ’68) and Maureen have dedicated their lives to fostering creativity in their community – most notably through founding Artcroft, an artist residency program in Nicholas and Bourbon Counties, Kentucky.
Created with Florence Thorne, Professor Emerita at Transylvania University, Artcroft hosted artists from around the globe, connecting them with Kentucky’s leading authors, artists, and craftspeople.
For 25 years, Artcroft’s visiting artists shared their work through exhibits and readings. The work was so impressive that a photo exhibit organized by Artcroft, “The People of Millersburg,” was included in one of the Smithsonian Institute’s travelling exhibits.
Now, as Robert and Maureen Barker scale back their personal involvement, they have directed Artcroft’s tangible assets to fund the newly established Milo Russell Fine Arts Scholarship at VCU School of the Arts. Honoring Milo Russell, a beloved VCU faculty member and mentor to Robert, Russell’s dedication to his students and their artistic growth deeply influenced Robert, and the scholarship stands as a testament to this enduring legacy.
Robert’s own journey at VCU was made possible by a 4-year scholarship he received from the Hermitage Foundation in Norfolk, Virginia – and the many acts of generosity which made it possible to build a life guided by creative inquiry in the arts. This profound impact inspired him to create a similar opportunity for aspiring artists.
The scholarship fund will provide financial assistance to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in any Fine Arts department within VCUarts.
The Barkers hope that the Milo Russell Fine Arts Scholarship will empower students to pursue their artistic dreams, just as Robert was empowered decades ago.