Artist pays tribute to healthcare workers

In a family full of healthcare workers, the impact of the current pandemic can be particularly acute. Sarah Gerg, a member of Mount Horeb High School’s class of 2020, doesn’t need to look very far to see the faces of people working on the front lines. 

“While I’ve been in quarantine, I’ve been especially grateful for the healthcare heroes in our midst!” Sarah explains. “Both of my moms work [in] healthcare - Mo (or Becky) works at Hospice, [and my] stepmom, Wendy works at UW Hospital.”

“The reality is, everyone knows someone who is an essential worker,” she continued. “These professionals are putting themselves at risk every day to save lives. Do them a favor and take stay at home orders seriously - flatten the curve, and thank your healthcare providers as well!” 

Gerg, who will be seeking a degree in illustration at the Rhode Island School of Design, and whose artwork has been shown in Mount Horeb during her high school career, found a way to use her own talents to honor healthcare workers: She painted an image of her mother, Becky.  “I didn’t know how great it was going to turn out when Sarah asked me to pose for a picture one uneventful Saturday morning,” she explained. “She asked me to put on my scrubs from work, a stethoscope and a mask. I didn’t have gloves. She added those free-hand.  When she was finished and showed me,  I was amazed at how much it looked like me (even wearing a mask). I was also so touched and appreciative that she would think to take the time to honor me and all nurses.”

“I’m so extremely proud of her strong work ethic and art accomplishments,” Becky continued. “I’m so excited to see what she will do next.”

While Sarah looks up to Becky, Becky looks up to her own mother, Barb Guenther, who is a retired nurse. 

“Becky sat for an hour while Sarah sketched her and then  finished  the picture digitally,” says Barb. “Presently, Sarah’s picture is being displayed on the Adams Outdoor Digital Advertising Sign on the Beltline near John Nolen drive, chosen as part of their #Myherowi campaign.”

“I’m proud, of not only my daughter but of [my] granddaughter, Sarah, for showing her gratitude for medical personnel by taking the time to honor them using her artistic talent doing this picture,” she says.