Two Sisters Close in Age, Far Apart in Art Themes:

Bobbi’s Manhole Art Theme deals with “The Gateway to the Underground,” contrasted with her sister’s Ethereal Landscapes containing hidden Angels. Judie Pufpaff’s Theme: “The Spirit Within” contemplates “The Gateway to Heaven!”

Bobbi Mastrangelo and her sister Judie Pufpaff

Most of the Blog Readers are familiar with Bobbi Mastrangelo’s Manhole Art. This sculpture relief is featured in The American Art Collector 2016 by Alcove Books.  http://collector.ac/

“City of Orlando” by Bobbi Mastrangelo

Now you have the opportunity to meet her sister, Judie Betschen Pufpaff who tells us her story!  Here is her piece in American Art Collector 2016: “Walk in the Light” Isaiah 2:5

“Walk in the Light” by Judie Pufpaff

Judie says: “Sharing a childhood home gave us (and our siblings) opportunities to explore and create the life every child would love. Our parents encouraged the fine arts along with a very strong vein of independent thinking.

Imagine a home in the hills of Springville, New York that resounded with music and laughter. Our neighboring farmers probably rolled their eyes at the “city folk” trying to raise 6 children with chickens, a pet pig and acres of strawberries, while our dad drove into Buffalo each day where he sold Electrolux vacuum cleaners door to door.

Bobbi, baby Claire, Judie and our dog in 1948.

Now, as I look back, I think of us as the Springville “Von Trap Family,” singing and playing whenever possible. Hard work, honesty, high marks in school, being fine citizens and good neighbors were attributes highly prized by our parents.

Bobbi and I were the oldest, enjoying all of the rewards and responsibilities as such. We were very different: Bobbi always looked for challenges, gave every endeavor 150%, while I chose easy, fun, pretty projects. I would plant flowers or run to the woods to read a new book, as Bobbi tackled a huge report or essay. I chose easy “A” classes, while Bobbi chose the most difficult.

The Betschen Bunch: Lois, Claire, Rick, Bobbi, Fred and Judie

We are still very different in creativity, Bobbi loves sewer grates while I paint landscapes of sunshine and flowers. I always choose “pretty and elegant” while Bobbi chooses unique. We are appreciative of each others talents and pursuits, as we are of our younger siblings, all very talented and ambitious. We are blessed!!!”
Love,
Your sister,
Judie Betschen Pufpaff from Williamsville NY

Bobbi Mastrangelo adds: “My sister Judie inspires me with her ethereal, sublime landscapes. Visit her website to see more of her exquisite landscapes. http://www.judiepufpaff.com/index.html

Lois, Bobbi, Claire and Judie at The Castile Farm, NY 2006

After my sisters posted their comments, I added the above photo to show the fun we have when we are together.

Here is Judie’s recent art work that was exhibited with The Buffalo Society of Artists:

“Quietness and Assurance” (Isaiah-32:17) by Judie Pufpaff