Frederica Diane Huff, an acclaimed artist with an illustrious career spanning decades, recently opened her solo exhibit at the Owensboro Convention Center. The pastel drawings favored by Los Angeles audiences are part of the same body of work now on display locally through the end of May.
With a rich background as an educator, gallery director, and prolific artist, Huff’s artistic journey is a testament to her unwavering passion for the arts and her deep-rooted connection to Owensboro.
The current spotlight at the Convention Center is on Huff’s exhibit titled “Laurie: the Artist’s Inspiration.” This collection of 11 artworks, alongside her broader body of work, reflects Huff’s profound admiration for her daughter Laurie, a professional dancer and actress. The exhibition delves into the themes of family, identity, and the intricate world of dance, encapsulating Huff’s personal and artistic journey.
Reflecting on her artistic process, Huff draws inspiration from life itself, with a keen focus on family and the equestrian world. Her connection to Owensboro is evident in her art, shaped by the city’s vibrant cultural landscape and rich heritage.
“As an artist, I draw my inspiration from life,” she said. “My daughters are an important part of that life. Despite being a feminist and career-minded, I found motherhood to be an all-consuming passion, homeschooling and traveling the world with my two daughters, Laurie Huff — a professional dancer, actress, and comedienne — and Dr. Deidre Diane Huff — an equine veterinarian and owner of Winterwood Equine.
As she continues to exhibit her work globally and immerse herself in new artistic endeavors, Huff remains grateful for her roots in Owensboro. Her early experiences at the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art laid the foundation for her artistic career, allowing her to flourish and make meaningful contributions to the art community.
Huff has served as the Education Director for the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art and the Gallery Director of the Kentucky Watercolor Society. She has had numerous exhibitions and accolades across the United States, including area exhibitions in Louisville, Bardstown, and Henderson.
Through her art, Huff invites viewers on a journey of discovery and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.
“I can’t really leave this conversation without mentioning my earliest experiences in Owensboro, as I came here shortly after graduating from Western Kentucky University and before I had children,” she said. “I became a part of the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art in its inaugural year in 1977. … I became a part of Owensboro at a pivotal time. Those experiences and the people I was able to meet gave me opportunities that I might never have had.”
