Curt and Nancy Bohon met through their sisters when they were ten years old. The pair lived on the same street in Cuyahoga Falls when they were children, and today, they live in the house Curt’s parents owned on the very same street that they grew up on. They have been married for nearly fifty years and have one daughter, Jessica. Together, they make stained glass out of their own shop at home and gift their creations to family and friends.

Curt and Nancy share an interest in making art. Curt worked at Ford, where he was introduced to stained glass through a class that was offered to employees. Nancy grew up crafting with her mother, doing embroidery and sewing. The couple has enjoyed myriad Summit County arts experiences throughout their life together, from concerts to festivals to hikes.

What is your earliest memory of the arts?

When she was in elementary school, Nancy went on field trips to plays in the area. One that stood out to her most was Man of La Mancha at the Akron Civic Theatre, which she saw in seventh grade.

Curt discovered his love for glass and antiques through his experience working at Ford. There, he also learned to refinish furniture. Curt brought these activities home and shared them with the family, which eventually culminated in building their own home studio.

What was your first introduction to the arts/culture scene in Summit County?

Curt and Nancy attended a lot of concerts when they were growing up. In particular, they saw many bands in the 1970s, even though, in Nancy’s words, they were “too young for Woodstock.” They enjoyed concerts at venues in Northeast Ohio like the Akron Civic Theatre, the State Theatre, and the Allen Theatre.

What artist/arts organization in Summit County do you wish more people knew about?

Nancy wishes more people knew about Summit Artspace, a local organization that supports artists and is housed in the former headquarters of the Akron Beacon Journal. She also recommends the Northside District, which offers ample opportunities to engage with the arts and find art for purchase.

What is a “can’t miss” Summit County arts/culture/environment experience?

Curt and Nancy love hiking in the local parks. Every year, they participate in the Fall Hiking Spree. They also enjoy kayaking and going to the festivals in downtown Akron. Nancy’s favorite Summit County arts event is Ohio Mart, held every year at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.

Nancy has also been decorating Christmas trees for the Annual Holiday Tree Festival with her sister and daughter for a decade. The festival is held every year at the John S. Knight Center and is a fundraiser for Akron Children’s Hospital.