Artist commemorates former mayor

Without hesitation and with honor, Vanover crafted a beautiful portrait of Mayor Arnold, as she does with all her art, with kindness and love.

Julia Vanover, artist and owner of Kind Design Fine Art studio and gallery in Valparaiso, recently donated a pen and ink portrait she created of the late Mayor Bruce Arnold to the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida.

Since Mayor Arnold’s passing earlier this year, Museum Chairman Steve Czonstka wanted to do something special to commemorate his dedication and service as Mayor of Valparaiso for 53 years. Czonstka approached Vanover, who had recently opened her art studio, and asked if she would be willing to do a portrait of the mayor.