First Friday Art Walk – April 2025

Step into a world of craftsmanship and creativity as we showcase the works of two remarkable artists, Vaughn and Susie Graber, each bringing a unique vision to life through wood and watercolor.

Born into a family of master woodworkers, Vaughn Graber carries on a tradition of old-world quality and artistry. His passion for woodturning has resulted in an extraordinary array of handcrafted pieces, from beds and coffee tables to intricate kaleidoscopes, spinning tops, and beautifully turned bowls. His segmented and solid wood creations are nothing short of breathtaking, each piece a testament to skill, precision, and a deep respect for the medium.

Since retiring, Vaughn has fully embraced his craft, becoming an active member of Kansas Woodturners, Flint Hills Woodturners, American Association of Woodturners, and the Topeka Sawdusters. His work has been exhibited at the Kansas Historical Society, Amused, Matryoshka and NOTO Arts Center and many more.

Bringing the countryside to life with every brushstroke, Susie Graber finds endless inspiration in the world around her. Raised on a farm, she has a deep appreciation for rural landscapes, painting everything from wildflowers and crows to weathered trucks and the character-filled faces of old men. The transparent beauty of watercolor allows her to capture the essence of her subjects with a lightness and vibrancy that feels both nostalgic and full of life.

Since retiring from a career in social work, Susie has devoted herself to artistic exploration, delighting in the joy of creating. Her work has been featured at Topeka Art Guild, Matryoshka, Amused, Kansas Corporations Commission and more.

Artist Image Gallery