ANN OPGENORTH

Ann Opgenorth (1942-2022) received a B.A. at Marycrest College and an MFA at Notre Dame University. She taught junior high art and then became an assistant professor of Art at Marycrest College and opened Ivy Ridge Studio, with Donna Marihart, in 1964.

Ann relocated to Florida in 1990. Ann specialized in welded and brazed metal sculptures in steel and copper, both full round and wall pieces. She was also a talented painter; who loved plein-air painting and painting what she saw while horseback riding.

Ann’s quilted art is unique, with colorful compositions and flowing lines that draw you into the scene. The 2023 Florida Folk Festival featured art is one of her quilts depicting Water birds. Her pieces center mostly around natural themes, but she also creates spectacular snapshots of people from Florida’s past.

Ann’s artwork is internationally known and displayed in Germany and Korea. In the United States, her work is in several State Capitals and churches, including the Risen Christ at Epiphany Parish in Lake City. She was a member of the Guild of Religious Architects; she won many awards, including the National Sculpture Society, recognition from the American Institute of Architects, and was listed as one of the “Outstanding Young Women of America.” Ann continued working with metalwork sculptures, quilting, and oil paintings until her death.

Ann was a talented artist, an avid gardener, an animal lover, and a spirited and wonderful friend who will be deeply missed.