About the Artist
Pennsylvania artist Candi Haas-Simmons has gained her artistic reputation through her intimate portraits of the natural world. Focusing on the flora of the eastern woodlands, especially those in Chester, Berks and Lackawanna counties, Haas-Simmons has established a following among those who have a passion for the beauty and spirit of the natural world.
The artist received early training as a student of Robert D. Kingsley. After she was graduated from Pottstown High School in 1972 she continued her education at Temple University's Tyler School of Fine Art. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts in 1976. In the years immediately following her graduation Haas-Simmons married and joined her husband as he served in the United States Navy, travelling with him to California and Sicily. During this time, Haas-Simmons pursued her fine arts career, teaching and commercial applications. In recognition for her graphic design skills she received the 1981 Naval Support Program's Award for Outstanding Achievement in Advertising. She also operated her own silkscreen company that specialized in original greeting cards.
In 1981, Haas-Simmons returned to her native Pennsylvania and began to concentrate on paintings of the local flora. Using first watercolor, then casein and eventually alkyd, Haas-Simmons developed her signature style of brightly-lit flowers against the intense dark of the surrounding woods. Her skills have brought her national, regional and local recognition and awards in the following years for both her paintings and drawings. She offers private instruction to exceptional students as well as teaching workshops and classes. She also serves the Pottstown School District as a substitute teacher.
The artist also is noted for her volunteer work within the community. She has been an Art Goes to School volunteer for twenty-three years. In the past, she has served diverse cultural and civic groups as an officer. She acts as the advisor to Pottstown High students who are completing their Graduation Project through Art Goes to School. She also serves her church as a Confirmation mentor and art instructor in the youth programs. In 1995 the Pottstown YWCA honored her in their Tribute to Exceptional Women. This award is given to women in varied professional fields who have achieved both professional excellence and singular service to their community.
Ms. Haas-Simmons is married, the mother of two children. She and her family share a passion for amateur astronomy, recreational time at their cabin in upstate Pennsylvania, kite making and flying, fossil collecting and travel.