the historic Benton House
Beginning in 1949 and continuing today, Irvington has been, and is, blessed to have three generations of artists from one family call it home.
Born in Rushville, Della B. Readle (1907 - 1998) moved to Irvington in 1949 with her husband and young son, John. Ms. Readle was a painter, producing many oil-on-canvas compositions. During her lifetime, she won numerous awards for her paintings; they were displayed at well known area venues. Currently, a paining of hers is on display at the historic Benton House in Irvington.
Her son, John Readle, a lifelong Irvington resident, works with stained glass. Mr. Readle was a founder and past Chairman of the Irvington Community Council. He has executed many large stained glass commissions, such as those at the Beech Grove Public Library, the St. Paul Hermitage (also in Beech Grove), and the Concord Community Church in West Lafayette, to name just a few.
Mr. Readle maintains his studio and the company he founded, "Custom Creations In Glass" in Irvington, where he continues to create stained glass artwork as well as selling stained glass supplies and tools to other artists.
Continuing the artistic tradition is John's daughter, Kristina Readle.
Kristina Readle was born and raised in Irvington. She currently lives in the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Originally, she worked with stained glass with her father. One year later, he suggested that she try working with hot glass. He bought her a torch and she never looked back. Ms. Readle now makes lampwork and beads. She displays her jewelry creations at every Irvington event she can attend, including farmers' markets and festivals.
Both John and Kristina Readle are featured on the Arts In Irvington web site.
Kristina Readle has two young sons. Will the family tradition of becoming artists continue? Time will tell.
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