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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2022 - Jun 30, 2023


Success StoryCelebrating a lifetime behind the Lens



Celebrating a lifetime behind the Lens

Author: Cortney Moses

Planning Unit: Whitley County CES

Major Program: Quality Arts Engagement & Experiences

Plan of Work: Encourage Vibrant Communities and support Economic Development

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Local Whitley County Photographer Butch Housman, originally from Dayton, Ohio, has spent over 60 years behind the camera but had never exhibited his work publicly. Despite a lifetime of experience capturing portraits and 1970s fashion, Housman had hesitations about displaying his art, citing discomfort with public critique and a professional focus on private commissions.

The Whitley County Cooperative Extension Community Arts Center addressed this by hosting Housman’s first-ever exhibit and artist reception on May 2. Led by Community Arts Agent Cortney Moses, the event featured a curated display of Housman’s work, dating back to the 1960s. Housman attended the reception, offering backstories behind his images and advice to aspiring artists: “Learn your craft until it becomes art. Pursue it.”

The Community Arts Agent worked closely with Housman to ensure a welcoming and respectful presentation of his life’s work, including light refreshments and community engagement opportunities.

The exhibit drew approximately 150 community members, including residents, students, artists, and photography enthusiasts. The diverse audience engaged with Housman’s work and story, making the event a meaningful cultural moment for both the artist and the community.

The exhibit remained on display for a month and a half, showcasing Housman’s six-decade legacy and inspiring dialogue around local arts. This milestone marked a powerful personal achievement for Housman and demonstrated the Community Arts Center’s role in uplifting hidden creative voices and building community through the arts.






Stories by Cortney Moses


Building the Creative Economy

Building the Creative Economy

about 2 years ago by Cortney Moses

The Extension Community Arts Center has become a beacon of success for the Whitley County Artisans, ... Read More


Exploring the regions natural wonders

Exploring the regions natural wonders

about 2 years ago by Cortney Moses

Whitley County is a hidden gem of natural beauty, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Appalachi... Read More


Stories by Whitley County CES


4-H Teen Club: Empowering Leaders

4-H Teen Club: Empowering Leaders

about 2 years ago by Lisa Jones

Whitley County 4-H has seen great progress in youth development with the introduction of 4-H teen cl... Read More


Stitched Smiles: Empowering Youth to Bring Joy to Nursing Home Residents

Stitched Smiles: Empowering Youth to Bring Joy to Nursing Home Residents

about 2 years ago by Lisa Jones

The 4H program is teaching young people valuable home economics skills that are becoming less common... Read More