A native of Pontiac, Michigan, Cheryl Dean became a Peorian at age six. Her love of both art and travel has kept her busy as a photographer for the past 30 years, and she has been able to exhibit in Chicago and Sarasota, Florida. When her former employer, Dick Blick, closed its Peoria doors, Dean jumped on the opportunity to buy out all of the equipment, opening her own shop, Picture This Gallery & Framing, in Peoria Heights in 2001. This has allowed her to host eight shows each year and represent nearly 25 local artists in addition to pursuing her own art. One can see much of the world through Dean’s photography; with images from Hawaii to Italy to Japan, her work is a must-see!
- My life won’t be complete until I… I feel that my life is fairly complete now. However, I would like to publish a book on my photographs some day.
- Three words that best describe me: independent, adventurous, traveler.
- Most humbling moment: Visiting the “Peace Museum” in Hiroshima, Japan.
- Favorite retreat: My deck in the summer with a good book and the sun on my face.
- What do you consider your greatest achievement? Both of my kids thought they were! Along with them…I am very proud of my business and what it has developed into after nine years.
- What is one word friends use to describe you? Wanderlust.
- What are your quirky habits? I have to have a cup of coffee in the morning before I can talk to anyone.
- Most impulsive thing I have ever done… Bought a round-trip ticket to Cinque Terre, Italy, not having a hotel room or anything but Rick Steves’ guidebook.
- What would you do with a million dollars? Save enough to travel on and then give the rest away!
- What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? My favorite quote: “Tentative efforts lead to tentative outcomes. Therefore, give yourself fully to your endeavors.” —Epictetus
