Sarah Waldow (b.1977)
Lake Anna: Seasons Change, 2024
Materials: Oil on Canvas
Location: Summa Health Barberton Campus (155 5th St. NE), Ground Floor, Main Lobby
Commissioned by Summa Health with generous support from the Healing Arts Fund.
About the Artwork
Lake Anna: Seasons Change is a striking triptych that captures the ever-evolving beauty of Lake Anna in Barberton, Ohio, through the lens of seasonal transformation. Painted in oil, each panel offers a unique perspective of the lake during an early morning sunrise, shifting through the distinct moods of spring, summer, and fall.
The left panel evokes the vibrancy of spring, with an impressionistic depiction of the lake’s surrounding flowering trees, particularly highlighting the tradition of the Cherry Blossom Festival—a 63-year-long event that once brought the community together. The scene celebrates the delicate pink and white blossoms that frame the lake, notably near the War Memorial, creating an awe-inspiring view that locals cherish each year.
The center panel immerses viewers in the warmth of summer. The silhouette of a man sits peacefully on a bench under two trees, gazing across the calm waters as the sun begins to rise. The warm green hues and soft dappled light create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, capturing the serenity of a summer morning.
On the right, autumn takes center stage, represented through the rich, golden tones of chrysanthemums, which are symbolic of Barberton’s Mumfest. This annual event, held for the last 34 years, celebrates the community’s love for chrysanthemums with arts, crafts, food, music, and even waterskiing. The panel also emphasizes Lake Anna’s proximity to the town center, highlighting its central role in the heart of Barberton.
About the Artist
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Sarah’s passion for art extends beyond the classroom; she is an active painter and gardener. The landscapes in her own backyard often inspire her work, which explores themes such as the interaction between bees, butterflies, and flowers, dramatic skies, and the reflections found in nature. Known for her use of bold color layers, underpainting effects, and texture, she creates with both acrylic and oil paints.
As a teacher and artist, Sarah actively works to connect her students’ art with the local community. She collaborates with the Barberton Community Foundation to purchase student artwork and fund art scholarships. Her students’ pieces are regularly featured in exhibitions across the region.
Where You Can See More of Sarah Waldow’s Work
Sarah showcases her art on her website and on Instagram @sarahwaldow. She is particularly interested in exhibiting her work in healthcare settings. Her pieces have been displayed at the Summa Health Art Gallery in Akron, Wooster Community Hospital, Akron Children’s Hospital, and Stewart’s Caring Place. Additionally, Sarah’s work is part of various local exhibits and collections, including those at Door 2 Art Studio in Hudson.