By Michael Buckley, Associate Publisher
Cornelia Davis grew up in a former communist country. She remembers her family struggling to maintain a reasonable level of living. The rationing of gas, electricity, water and food are vivid memories. “Big Government was involved in every aspect of our lives.” She said, “We were discouraged to worship God” Cornelia went on to say.
Cornelia was a Mountain Girl in Rucar, Romania. She graduated high school with a degree. The school model there is a combination high school/community college curriculum. Upon graduation a degree is awarded.
She met her husband Wayne in Romania. He was on a mission trip. This was after the 1989 revolution. Cornelia worked as a translator. They were married in Romania and had a son, Steven. Steven was one year old when they moved to the U.S., 21 years ago.
Cornelia was fascinated by colors she observed in the states; as she had been accustomed to institutional green and gray in her homeland. After their arrival, Cornelia earned a degree in Interior Design, applying her creative talent. Painting became a favorite hobby when taking a break from home schooling her son. One passion she has is called “up-cycling” which is the art of taking objects or things that might be thrown away and create art or items with it. She cited women’s purses made from newspapers and magazines. In addition, stain glass, mosaics and crocheting are favorites of Cornelia.
Cornelia has traveled back to Romania to teach English and Art. From time to time, she brings back artworks to introduce and display here. This coincides with her volunteer work at the Clearview Windsor/Severance Library. She helped an associate, Becky Rague, develop an art corner in the library where young, old, non-professional, professional artists are given the opportunity to display work.
Cornelia and her family moved to Windsor in 2000 coming from Dallas, Texas. Her husband, Wayne works in Nuclear Medicine at PVH. Steven is working at the library and is an accomplished musician. The family cherishes the American way of life and according to Cornelia give thanks each and every day.