Category: Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award

And the Award Goes to Dave Muylle of Lansing, Michigan! Chilly weather conditions and even snow, could not dampen the enthusiasm regarding historic preservation from the Lansing community on this day!  Around 80 people attended, enjoying the presentation, refreshments and then touring through Dave's restored homes at 139 and 141 Leslie Street to see for themselves Dave's fine craftsmanship.  Many stayed at length to chat and enjoy the comradery of fellow supporters of old home restoration. My award to Dave was a framed and plaqued painting of 139 and 141 Leslie Street, two of the Craftsman homes Dave has completed within the last year. Here it is! I would like to thank Lansing Council President, Carol Wood and 1st Ward Councilmember, Jody Washington who joined me in honoring Dave as…

Lansing craftsman brings old homes back to life! I believe that beautiful old buildings, with true craftsmanship should be preserved and maintained so that they can continue to serve an example of what QUALITY architectural design and construction is all about.  In my opinion, such homes and buildings are art forms -- that's what inspires me to paint them. The award is my way of recognizing individuals who have been instrumental in preserving the historic buildings of their area.  Naturally the award I present is a framed pen and watercolor painting of the awardees latest historic project. The first recipient of my Historic Preservation Award therefore will go to Dave Muylle, a person who epitomizes true craftsmanship and quality restoration. Being that I am in Lansing currently with it being the…

I have traveled around the country and had the joy of painting many remarkably preserved historic homes in many diverse locations and in many styles. In speaking with the owners, I have always been moved by their care and thoughtfulness in meticulously restoring and upholding the timelessness of their grand works of art. I have seen that it is the individual, the homeowner, the community leader who is the main cheerleader and caretaker for saving and preserving beautiful historic homes and buildings. And, in the main, I have found that most do not undertake such care just for themselves and their families who live in them but have a larger eye towards keeping whole the historic fabric and beauty of their communities. I have decided because of this that such…