When a group of moms is looking to make a difference — usually in the lives of others, but occasionally in their own — you can be sure great things will result.

By Robin Jovanovich

hen a group of moms is looking to make a difference — usually in the lives of others, but occasionally in their own — you can be sure great things will result. Take Enterprising Rye Moms, which close to 100 talented mothers joined in a matter of weeks. The group meets regularly to share ideas and expertise and stays in touch through Facebook.

Not all of these moms want to start a business or reenter the work force full-time, but all of them are interested in using their skills outside the home.

On June 11 at 6:30, a group show of the artists among the Enterprising Moms will open at Rye Art Gallery and Framing. 

“We’ve all had careers and passions,” said member Mary Scully, who has a nursing background and 20 years of experience working on local community events. “And now many of us are pursuing our passions.”

Suzanne Saurack, who minored in Art History, left a job in finance to raise her three children. But five years ago, the urge to pursue painting prompted her to take a class at the Rye Arts Center. 

For JoAnn Cancro, photography was “divine providence”. She started off taking photos of events in town, and was soon a regular contributor to The Rye Record. Her business has morphed into portraits, corporate work, and the cultural side of Cuba. She’s now printing a coffee table book of her works. Her advice for creative women is “follow your thoughts.”

Priya Tambe put her investment-banking career behind her after having children. Since then she’s designed jewelry and now devotes most of her spare time to creating encaustic works on paper and wood.
Jo Bryan formerly worked in finance. “My father was an amateur photographer and I’m hoping to make it a career,” she said.

Deborah McNamara used to practice law in the city. She took time off to get a fashion degree at Parsons. “I started representing small designers and now do freelance design projects, very avant-garde ones!”

After taking classes at the New York Botanical Garden, Fani Szterenbuch, who started off in the hotel business, decided to share her floral design talents with others. She now does weddings.
The public is invited to see a wide variety of art by these terrifically talented women on June 11.

 

Standing, from left: Suzanne Saurack, Jo Bryan, Deborah McNamara, JoAnn Cancro, and Mary Scully, seated: Fani Szterenbuch and Priya Tambe displaying some of their recent works at an Enterprising Rye Moms meeting.