About the Artist

Cora Smith is a self-taught artist, originally from Chicago, Illinois. Her love of art developed when she was young by pouring over large books that contained the works of the old masters as well as images of the work of early American artists. She has been drawing as long as she can remember. She began doing commissioned portraits in 1988 and continued to pursue her love of art after moving to Pennsylvania in 1991. Over the years, the need to promote art in the rural areas of Pennsylvania became evident. In 2004, she started The Kyrie Gallery with the love and support of family and friends. Her work is also exhibited at the Winkler Gallery of Fine Art in Dubois, PA as well as the Eccotta Gallery of Art in Ridgway, PA. She lives in Mahaffey, PA. with her husband, Bruce Smith. She has three children: Sara(Gary), Kyle(Christy) and Sophia and one grandson, Ethan.

Artist's Statement

As an artist living in this the 21st century, I am thrilled to have an opportunity to share my art with the world via the magic of the internet. Technology is a wonderful thing. As an American, I am very aware that the freedom to pursue dreams has come about in our country as in no other place on earth. It has been hard-earned by many who were and are willing to fight and die for such freedom and I am so thankful. As a Christian, I am happy to share my faith as well as my art. It is my confidence that because of Jesus Christ, I am truly free and that with Him, all things are possible. Thus the name: "kyrie".

Cora Smith

Kyr-i-e (kir'e a') n.A liturgical prayer in the Christian church beginning with or composed of the words "Lord, have mercy." [L Lat. < Gk. Kurie eleeson. Lord have mercy.}