Founded by Brian Lewandowski, See What Stacey Started is inspired by friendship and his experience with creative community building. “Stacey Skiera was one of my best friends at Central Michigan University, and the entire reason I started doing figure drawing. She invited me to one of the open figure drawing sessions held by the CMU art department and I instantly fell in love with it. Sadly, Stacey passed away several years ago and I never got the chance to really tell her how much it meant to me that she brought me to that first session. This is my way of showing the world the effect she had on me, and now indirectly on everyone who comes to our SWSS sessions.”

Today, SWSS coordinates figure drawing sessions once a month in partnership with small businesses around Metro Detroit. Sessions are open to anyone who would like to draw for just $10. Funds provide payment for the venue, model, and multiple sclerosis research. Together with participants, SWSS has held ten exhibitions over the last decade to showcase artwork created from these sessions and raise funds to support multiple sclerosis research.

An opening reception was held on May 20th from 4-7 pm. Brian Lewandowski, Steve Czapiewski, and family members of Stacey Skiera spoke briefly about the group and the exhibit at the opening reception.

Music was provided thanks to a local DJ. Charcuterie and refreshments were provided by The Cheese Lady (Rochester) and PCCA exhibitions.

The following artists were included in the exhibit: