The sign announcing the town of Pine Lake, in the suburbs of Atlanta, was painted by town resident Dede Spitz. It’s one of many examples of Dede’s enthusiasm for “getting the art out there.” Using acrylics on canvas and scrap wood, Dede paints from her imagination, and her art demonstrates her deep sensitivity to the living world around her. She is also a writer and often includes original messages in her paintings. Dede is a caring friend to all the birds and small animals that visit her many outdoor feeders. She also places a high value on human friendship, claiming to love people even more than she loves art. “And,” she adds, “I really love art!”