Board of directors

Welcome!

We are honored to introduce the dedicated Board of Directors of the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation (RSFAF). We are responsible for strategic planning, financial management, and implementation aligning with Richard’s Vision and Mission for this 501(c)(3) private non-private organization. Entrusted with much of his estate, his studio, and an extensive art collection, the Board of Directors, in collaboration with Kathryn Beligratis, our Executive Director, and our Advisory Board, plays a pivotal role in determining the future direction of how Richard’s masterful works of art, his knowledge, teachings, and legacy will be shared and preserved for artists and art lovers worldwide.

It is with deep gratitude that we welcome you to the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation.

We proudly introduce the dedicated Board of Directors of the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation (RSFAF). As a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization, we uphold a mission rooted in strategic vision, responsible financial stewardship, and an unwavering commitment to fulfill Richard’s wishes.

Each Board member, together with Executive Director Kathryn Beligratis, is dedicated to ensuring that Richard’s extraordinary legacy—his art, his knowledge, and the generous spirit with which he shared both—continues to uplift, educate, and inspire generations of artists and art enthusiasts in our communities and around the world.

“What makes our Board’s role profoundly meaningful is that each member knew Richard personally—not only as a masterful artist, but as a cherished friend and mentor. This deep, firsthand bond infuses our work with heartfelt purpose as we carry forward the legacy of a man whose generosity, brilliance, and joy in teaching left a lasting mark on the world of art.”
Nancy Guzik – RSFAF President

Richard Schmid with Nancy Guzik in their garden.

NANCY GUZIK – President

Nancy’s multifaceted roles as an artist, educator, co-founder of The Putney Painters, and Richard’s spouse and business comrade speak to her profound influence in the world of fine art.

Having invaluable insights from Richard, she not only acquired an education in artistry but also learned profound lessons about the responsibility to share the wisdom we accumulate as artists.

Nancy is dedicated to preserving Richard Schmid’s mission to advance his educational and artistic spirit of excellence and generosity through his art, vision, and philosophical ideas on creativity—as he did—with excellence, inspiration, and joy.

“For decades, I had the privilege of creating and learning alongside Richard in painting groups, traveling Plein Air adventures, and working closely with him on many projects, including his books, videos, and lithographs.

As a result, I have much to share and create about Richard’s art and life, and I want to keep this momentum and his spirit alive in his foundation. Richard taught me invaluable lessons in art, life, and joy—and now my mission is to share his teachings and what I learned from him with artists and educators worldwide.” NG

Favorite Memory of Richard

“There are hundreds of cherished memories with Richard about learning to paint, being successful, seeing the world, making choices, embracing gratitude, and being a wonderful and joyful husband. Allow me to share one of these special memories with you:

It was a beautiful morning as Richard and I were strolling along carrying our Plein Air gear in search of our spot to paint a masterpiece. Unexpectedly, Richard began…

to veer toward the left. I glanced in that direction, searching earnestly for what caught his eye…seeing nothing but rocks, I couldn't help but inquire, "Where are you headed?"

With a gradual pause, Richard turned his head towards me with a radiant smile on his handsome face and pointed left. I was sure of something wondrous. I peered in that direction, wanting to see the hidden treasure that he saw. "Hmm," I thought to myself and said, "I only see rocks here."

Richard then gently placed his painting gear and tools down and walked over to me. His blue eyes met mine in an unspoken exchange as he confirmed, "Yes."

Although I didn't understand, I was committed to the best outcome. "Happy creating!" I offered with sincerity before turning and wandering into the forest. It wasn't long before I found a trio of trees and their beauty, inviting me to set up and paint.

Upon completing my artwork and emerging from the forest, I found Richard cleaning up. However, his completed painting truly captivated me—a mesmerizing depiction of those seemingly ordinary rocks. It was as if his artwork possessed an enchanting power, something truly special and filled with joy.

This is a glimpse into the heart of the painting itself. Richard showed me how he sees rocks by painting his vision—what he saw—and sharing it with me on canvas.

I hugged him profoundly, and from that moment on, whenever I see a rock—or any subject I paint—I smile, knowing that in each, there's a hidden world of beauty waiting to be uncovered."

Nancy Guzik, RSFAF President

Ann Witheridge painting in her London studio.

ANN WITHERIDGE – Vice President

Ann Witheridge read history of art at Christ’s College Cambridge before moving to Italy to study art full-time. She spent a year in Venice before moving to Florence. She was fortunate to receive a scholarship and taught within the atelier tradition. When she returned to London she started the studios on Lavender Hill, now called London Fine Art Studios. She has worked with her husband Scott Pohlschmidt as a teacher and…

painter for over 25 years. She loves teaching and painting in equal measure. She writes for art periodicals and teaches workshops in museums in London and abroad. She has taught workshops and given painting demonstrations from as far as Ethiopia to Charleston, South Carolina and Paris, France.

Favorite Memory of Richard

“Through my husband Scott, I have always known of Richard Schmid and his book Alla Prima. It is the main book recommended to our students, and we were lucky enough to be introduced to him and Nancy through one of our international students. Richard and Nancy have generously given us guidance and encouragement as…

both artists and art teachers. We found their philosophy on the beauty and joy of art utterly compelling and in line with our own feelings. I often find myself quoting Richard not just about art techniques but also on the stages of one’s art career."

I feel very blessed to have been given the opportunity to continue a friendship and artistic journey with Nancy and to be asked to give my time for the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation."

Ann Witherridge, RSFAF Vice President

Richard painting BLUE CUPS AND PANSIES—Carol observing and asking good questions—Still Life Day with the Putney Painters, Village Arts of Putney, VT.

See the finished piece and close-up on pages 194–195 in MY STILL LIFE ART.

CAROL ARNOLD – Secretary

Carol is a member of the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation and Administrator for The Putney Painters—the painting group founded by Richard Schmid, Nancy Guzik, Penelope and John Adams in 1999.

Carol is a portrait and figurative painter and has won numerous awards. She is a member of The Salmagundi Art Club, The Portrait Society of America Mentorship program, and the BVAA, Uxbridge, MA

“I met Richard Schmid and Nancy Guzik in 2004 and have learned most everything I know about art from them. I’m proud and excited to be on the board for the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation because I feel it is my chance to give back to this most kind and generous man who gave his all to help share his knowledge with artists around the world.

I am dedicated to helping Richard’s wishes for his foundation to come to life!”

Favorite Memory of Richard

I remember watching Richard paint “Blue Cup and Pansies” on one of our Putney Painter days and saying the pansies were like candy and that he could use the cadmium’s right out of the tube for some of them. He used his pallet knife to get the clean, pure colors. Richard said they are like musical notes to him as they flow across the canvas. When he painted the cup, …

... he explained how the white of the cup is not pure white; it’s a mixture of colors reflecting onto it from the surrounding objects, like the cloth and the flowers and leaves. He also told me to simplify the cup’s design and not spend a lot of time trying to get every little detail.

One of my favorite days with Richard was when he was teaching us about the light. He turned the lights up in the room, and we saw lots of colors and values, then he turned them off to show how the light affects what we are painting. We saw hardly any color and very few value changes. He then explained that these two lighting situations would result in two completely different paintings! He also did an experiment with a warm light bulb and showed us how warm light produces cool shadows and cool light creates warm shadows. Also, same room, two different paintings! It was so exciting to learn this! The light affects everything! I looked at everything differently after that day.

Richard was always generously sharing his knowledge with us, and the only thing he asked for in return, was for us to share it.

Carol Arnold, RSFAF Secretary

Paul visiting the studio of one of his favorite artists.

PAUL A. STACH – Treasurer

Paul Stach was born and raised in New Jersey and lived in New York. He currently resides in Orchid, Florida and Oceanport, New Jersey. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, NJ in 1965, Williams College, Williamstown, MA in 1969 (BA in Economics) and Stanford University Graduate School of Business, Palo Alto, CA in 1972 (MBA specializing in Finance).

Mr. Stach spent his entire career in finance. He started work in Public (Municipal) investment…

banking following receipt of his MBA. His over twenty-year career included raising nearly $10 billion for states, municipalities and public agencies for purposes such as water supply, wastewater treatment, electric generation and distribution, housing and student loan financing. His last role was as Managing Director and head of Public Finance at Kidder Peabody & Co. where he was also Chairman of Kidder Peabody’s Puerto Rico subsidiary. He left investment banking in 1993 to pursue a career in asset management, first with Fox Asset Management and later forming a new company as one of the founders of Osprey Partners Investment Management before retiring in 2009.

Other activities included:

Trustee and chair of the finance committee for the Church of the Nativity, Fair Haven, NJ.

Treasurer and Executive Committee member of Monmouth Beach Bath & Tennis Club, NJ.

Past Chairman and current head of the Governance Committee, Family & Children’s Service, Long Branch, NJ.

Current member of the Local Planning Agency for the Town of Orchid, FL.

Current Treasurer for the Plein Air Painters of the Jersey Coast.

Favorite Memory of Richard

“As for my favorite memory of Richard, I often reflect on our conversations relating to topics other than Fine Art. He was such an accomplished thinker, and philosopher with interests far beyond the Art world. I treasure the memories of our dinners together, and the many moments we shared discussing a wide variety of topics.”

Paul Stach, RSFAF Treasure

John Michael Carter with one of his stunning paintings.

JOHN MICHAEL CARTER – Director

John Michael Carter, OPAM was born in Chicago. He showed an interest in drawing at an early age and began his studies at 15 with his father E.L. Carter, a commercial artist and illustrator. After graduation from high school, he attended The American Academy of Art in Chicago.

In 1970, Carter continued his studies at the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. There he studied the major classical schools of drawing and…

painting with Reynolds Brown, Harry Carmean, and Lorser Feitelsom. John received his B.F.A. in 1972. His wide range of subject matter covers landscapes, still life, figurative painting, and portraiture.

His portraits include senators, governors, university presidents as well as corporate and civic leaders. In 2004 he was awarded Oil Painters of America's prestigious Gold Medal at the 13th National Juried Exhibition in Kirkland, Washington. He was appointed to OPA’s Board of Directors in 2010, and served as its President from 2016-2018.

Favorite Memory of Richard

In 1964 I accompanied my father on a business trip to the J. Walter Thompson advertising agency in Chicago, I was 14 years old at the time. Afterward, my father wanted to stop by the American Academy of Art in order to visit Frank Young Jr., his friend and Director of the school at the time. Upon entering his office, I noticed a number of paintings and drawings framed and hanging around the room, mostly figure studies in costumes, or nudes from the life classes— but there was one large landscape that immediately caught my eye.

I can still remember my first impression:

“Oh! That’s what dappled sunlight looks like.” I realize that I was only 14, but even during that short span of years, I’m sure I had seen dappled sunlight on hundreds if not thousands of occasions. Yet, here was a painting expressing a common phenomenon of nature so strikingly that I felt I was experiencing it for the first time!

My second impression was the feeling of reality that the painting conveyed, probably because the image had a strong sense of depth and dimension. Then, as I approached the oil to look more closely, the image began to dissolve into an abstraction of thick and thin paint applications, vivid colors and value changes, which came as a real surprise! Stepping back, the image once again started to “become” the subject—a depiction of some architecture viewed through some trees with sunlight falling on tree trunks and the ground, creating dappled sunlight. The subject was so every day— even ordinary. This was not an image of adventure, a historic battle scene, a seductively exotic beauty, or the stuff of illustration. This was a different aesthetic which somehow made the subject of the painting irrelevant. It conveyed an image built on the interpretation of light, and the beauty of purposeful and colorful applications of paint that became an integral part of the visual experience.

At this young age, I realized that a painting could evoke a visceral excitement in me that was different from what I had experienced from the illustrative story telling I was familiar with. That experience started me thinking about art in a direction away from illustration, and more toward representational fine art.

A year later my mother took me on a trip to Gaylordsville, Connecticut where I met Richard Schmid, the artist of the painting which had so impressed me. We spent the day with Richard and visited his studio. He offered advice on art, and introduced me to the work of Antonio Mancini,—a 19th and early 20th century Italian painter who had an influence on Richard’s early development as a painter, and later on mine as well…

-John Michael Carter, RSFAF Director

Richard signing his book, MY STILL LIFE ART, with a personal dedication to Madeline.

MADELINE ULRICH – Director

Madeline brings over four decades of invaluable nonprofit expertise, including two decades of managing nonprofit organizations. Presently, she serves as the Executive Director of a local New Hampshire nonprofit.

Madeline loves spending her free time exploring the world of art, a passion that captivated her when she embarked on her artistic journey at Village Arts under the guidance of Richard Schmid and the revered Putney Painters.

Her artistic involvement further flourished when Richard asked her to join the Putney Painters.

She is thrilled and honored to help carry Richard’s mission and legacy forward and to be a member on the RSFAF Board of Directors.

Madeline’s academic background is highlighted by a Bachelor of Science in Education and a distinguished certificate in non-profit management.

Favorite Memory of Richard

“One of my most cherished memories is from my time at Village Arts during our Putney Painters session. I remember watching Nancy and Richard dancing around the room, and the love and joy that they had for each other was so evident in every look they shared.”

Madelin Ulrich, RSFAF Director

Kathryn Beligratis at an art event, surrounded by the beauty of roses.

KATHRYN BELIGRATIS – Executive Director

Kathryn Beligratis possesses more than 35 years of professional association and nonprofit experience. Among the highlights of her career, Ms. Beligratis served as Oil Painters of America’s first Executive Director for over twenty years. Prior to her work with OPA, she served as the Director of Communications for the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago.

She was fortunate to begin her professional career with Smith, Bucklin & Associates, one of the leading association management firms where she worked as the Account Manager for the Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

Favorite Memory of Richard

Kathryn considers herself an art enthusiast and a great admirer of Richard Schmid’s Art work. While she did not have the pleasure of knowing him personally, she came to know many of Richard’s former students who often talked about the profound impact he had on their careers, because he generously shared his knowledge, and offered them invaluable guidance and encouragement.

Kathryn is excited about the opportunity to work with Nancy Guzik and the RSFAF Board of Directors, to help them further Richard Schmid’s legacy, and to continue inspiring artists from around the world.

Kathryn resides in Inverness, Illinois, with her husband Jim and two college-aged children.

Kathryn Beligratis, RSFAF Executive Director

CONSULTANT

Richard Schmid, Nancy Guzik and Kristen Thies —New York City.

KRISTEN THIES – Creative Design and PR Consultant

Kristen is a former board member and served the RSFAF from 2021 to 2024. She is also the owner of West Wind Fine Art, in Walpole, NH and has represented Richard Schmid’s Art since 1998. She assisted him with the start-up of his publishing company, Stove Prairie Press, in Colorado, and helped him with the production of his best selling book, ALLA PRIMA I, Everything I Know About Painting, published in 1998. She also assisted Richard with his…

last publication, PORTRAIT AND FIGURE PAINTINGS, and four of his instructional Fine Art DVDs. She served as Creative Design Director for his two New 4K Streaming versions of THE CAPTAIN’S PORTRAIT and RICHARD SCHMID PAINTS THE LANDSCAPE- JUNE in 2024.

Kristen specializes in Public Relations, major Fine Art event planning, with over twenty six years experience in marketing, print and ad design, and new product development. She is the author of WISDOM & THE DREAMER—Achieving Fulfillment in the Arts, and is currently completing her new book which chronicles the story of Richard Schmid’s Legacy since their meeting in 1997. The book is beautifully enhanced with original paintings and quotes by Richard and foremost artist Nancy Guzik, along with Kristen’s never-before-seen photos.

Favorite Memory of Richard

“Representing Richard Schmid’s paintings since 1998 has been a grand journey and my great honor. And, I am committed to promoting Fine Art as a powerful force for creating good in our communities and around the world. It’s a great joy to represent Richard Schmid’s Art and to help preserve his mission and knowledge, because the unspoken language of beauty and Fine Art transcends boundaries—and brings people and communities together.”

BOOKKEEPER

Kate Yannacci our diligent and dedicated bookkeeper.

KATE YANNACCI– Bookkeeper

As the owner of a bookkeeping business dedicated to supporting small businesses and non-profit organizations, Kate specializes in helping entrepreneurs manage their finances efficiently, providing tailored solutions to meet each unique need. Her passion lies in simplifying complex financial processes, so small business owners can focus on growing their ventures with confidence.

helping entrepreneurs manage their finances efficiently, providing tailored solutions to meet each unique need. Her passion lies in simplifying complex financial processes, so small business owners can focus on growing their ventures with confidence.

Favorite Memory of Richard

Kate began working with the Richard Schmid Fine Art Foundation in April of 2024. “Although I never had the opportunity to meet Richard before he passed, I throughly enjoy coming to the office to work with Nancy while being surrounded by his and her beautiful artwork. It truly feels like working in a Fine Art Museum.”

STOVE PRAIRIE PRESS TEAM

A Richard Schmid Publishing Company

Visit Richard’s Store: RichardSchmid.com

Molly Schmid introducing her father, Richard Schmid at the instructional event, “Weekend With The Masters.”

MOLLY SCHMID – President

Molly Schmid began her professional career with Stove Prairie Press® in 2006, acting as an assistant to Richard Schmid. Having helped start and run two businesses in the past, she brought both her experience in the business world and the art community to help further the mission of Stove Prairie Press®. Over the years, she learned every aspect of the company, from the creative design process…

...to the logistics of producing, warehousing and distributing his educational Art books, DVD's, and new 4K streaming videos created by her father, and by helping him inspire artists worldwide.

In 2021, Molly was promoted to Vice President of Stove Prairie Press® after her father’s passing, and became his company’s President in December, 2024. She holds a degree in fine art and continues to paint in her Tallahassee, Florida-based studio. Her art is part of the permanent collection of the State of Florida, as well as private, corporate, and museum collections.

Nancy with Richard as he autographs his book, “THE LANDSCAPES”

NANCY GUZIK – Creative Projects

Nancy Guzik is a vital member of the Stove Prairie Press team, a Richard Schmid Publishing Company, where she upholds the high standards of excellence set by renowned artist, and beloved late husband, Richard Schmid. Having worked closely with Richard on his seminal art education book, ALLA PRIMA II, Nancy became deeply immersed in his insights and teachings. She has since embraced Richard’s approach to publishing, ensuring that every project under the Stove Prairie Press banner reflects his…

...commitment to the highest quality, professionalism, and art education.

Nancy’s artistic journey, greatly shaped by Richard’s mentorship, has led her to become an internationally recognized artist, widely regarded as one of the leaders in the current renaissance of excellence and inspiration in painting. As one of the directors of the Putney Painters in Vermont, Nancy has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many talented painters, leaving an indelible mark on the next generation of artists. She believes her artistic expertise enriches her work in production and event creation, allowing her to honor and preserve Richard’s profound legacy and uphold the standards of excellence in everything the company produces.

Logan Lewkow, MBA

LOGAN LEWKOW, MBA – Bookkeeper for Stove Prairie Press, LLC

Molly Schmid brought Logan on board as soon as bookkeeping was transitioned to her in June 2023. He has been an integral part of the SPP team ever since. Logan is the founder of Premier Business Solutions of Tallahassee, a firm specializing in bookkeeping, financial consulting, and business management services, with extensive experience supporting nonprofit organizations and small businesses.

Logan is also the Deputy Executive Director of Community Relations for the Florida Sheriff’s Association.

OUR LEGACY BOARD MEMBERS

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the inaugural Board of Directors, carefully selected by Richard Schmid himself. Their dedication, vision, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the foundation’s legacy and advancing its mission. We are deeply thankful for their commitment to preserving and honoring Richard’s artistic vision.

Nancy and RSFAF Board Members

PENELOPE SIMPSON ADAMS
Vice President, 2021-24

LORI LARUE
Secretary, 2021-24

MARYANNE INNES
Treasurer, 2022-24

CAROL ARNOLD
Board Member, 2021-present

MICHELLE DUNAWAY
Board Member, 2022-24

KRISTEN THIES
Board Member, 2021-2024

MADELINE ULRICH
Board Member, 2021-present