CCAD alums who met in '58 create art, lasting marriage

In 1958, when Columbus College of Art & Design was still called the Columbus Art School, a young industrial design student named John Schaffner met an advertising design student named Luray Schirtzinger.

They would eat lunch together with friends, and after a while, Luray took a liking to John. So she asked him out.

“She said, ’I have two tickets to Victor Borge,’ ” John recalled.

John said yes. They went to go see the Danish comedian, and they hit it off. A few years later, in 1962, they got married.

Over the years, as Luray (Class of 1962) worked in advertising and John (Class of 1960) designed department stores, both continued to pursue their art.

“I’ve always been an artist, and John’s been the same way,” Luray said.

Now, through March 6, they have a two-person show on display at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Dowell, Maryland, outside Washington, D.C.

The show, When Thoughts Become Art, features about 100 pieces — half wooden sculptures and half mixed media collages.

Most of the work is created in their home studios in St. Leonard, Maryland, where they continue to work daily.

“That’s one thing that’s nice about being an artist,” Luray said. “You don’t have to retire.”

For more information about the Schaffners’ show, visit annmariegarden.org. To see more of their artwork, visit John’s website and Luray’s website.