Russell Merritt has been an active Asian Artist for many years and is a contributor to the arts and community throughout central Ohio.
In doing Sumi-e, he grinds his own ink in a traditional Suzuri (ink stone) and uses traditional brushes to be as authentic as possible.
Each year Russell donates his time for the summer, offering free art workshops for children at the Newark Public Library. As a teacher and as a volunteer at the Works he has been a positive influence on local art students in our community. He has donated time and/or artwork in support of Java and Jazz, the Mental Health Support auction, The Midland Theater, The Works, The Newark/Granville Symphony Orchestra, Kairos Academy and The OSUN Daycare center. He has also been a guest speaker at various clubs and organizations such as Rotary, Kiwanis and the Lions.
Mr. Merritt has held workshops teaching artwork for young people in schools and libraries in Coshocton, Columbus, Cleveland, West Jefferson, Clyde, Bellevue, Stow, Massillon, West Lafayette, Newark, Zanesville, Buckeye Lake, Loudonville and Johnstown.
He was recently recognized by Columbus Mayor Mike Coleman for his involvement in the Columbus Neighborhood Pride Program and was nominated for Who's Who.
His work has been awarded in shows including the June Exhibition at OSU Newark, Dawes Arboretum and the Granville Art Walk.
His work is a synthesis of East and West with beautiful works reminiscent of Japanese Masters.

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