HILLIARD, Ohio–Credit Union of Ohio has donated $25,000 to help bring a large-scale "Ohioans in Space" painting to the Ohio Statehouse to commemorate the significant accomplishments of astronauts born in Ohio, including John Glenn, Neil Armstrong, Jim Lovell, Judith Resnik.
The artwork is the first commissioned large-scale painting to be installed permanently in the Ohio Statehouse in more than 65 years. Ohio artist Bill Hinsch was commissioned to bring the project to life. Hinsch has created numerous works of art that hang in the U.S. Air Force Museum and the Pentagon.
The 9x12-foot painting was unveiled during a day-long celebration last month which included a student program and panel discussions about “Aviation and Aerospace” and “Art and its Impact on Ohio.”
Governor Mike DeWine, members of NASA, and family members of Ohio astronauts were in attendance for the celebrated unveiling.
“We’re proud to not only honor the great contributions of astronauts born in Ohio but also bring awareness to the power of art to keep their stories alive,” said Credit Union of Ohio Senior Vice President Jill Gerschutz.
Credit Union of Ohio said it has recently made additional significant donations to support USO Ohio, Hilliard High School scholarships, and several major community events, including Hilliard’s Celebration at the Station, Freedom Fest, and the Taste of the Town.