Sharon Lyn Stackpole
I am a native West Virginian writer and artist. I have been obsessed with color, light and words since learning to walk and talk. As a very young child, I invented my own language because it seemed there should be one purer than the ones spoken. I still make up my own words occasionally.
I studied painting and art history at Fairmont State and West Virginia University, but it was very difficult to concentrate on one major when the whole world is so interesting. I can honestly say I have never been bored a day in my life. Each field of study influences the other.
After art school, I was a poet in San Francisco before working as a newspaper reporter and columnist in West Virginia. I am still fascinated with the combination of words and imagery. I do not believe one has to exist without the other.
I am a strong supporter of arts in education and I lobby for the restoration of art instruction at the primary grade levels in West Virginia.
My artwork can be seen at The Purple Moon, 906 Quarrier Street,Charleston, WV, and at the Monongalia Arts Center on 107 High Street, Morgantown, WV.
I also have a work commemorating the life of twice-former governor (and fellow Tyler County native) Cecil H. Underwood on permanent collection at the Tyler County Museum in Middlebourne, WV.
