By By BEN RAYMOND LODE / Niles Daily Star
NILES - Most children grow up learning only one language.
But for the two daughters of renowned Niles artist, Nancy Drew, growing up also meant being exposed to a second one -- the visual language.
That exposure has led Anna Ryan Drew, 27, and Maggie Adare Drew Logie, 24, to pursue their own carreers in art -- one as a painter and the other as a fine arts photographer.
The two are the daughters of Nancy and Sherman Drew Jr.
Growing up surrounded by paintings, painted furniture and art in general, they said the visual art form became a natural part of their life at an early age.
In addition to growing up with art, the two said they were also influenced by what their mother told them.
Although Anna and Maggie grew up together, both graduating from Niles High School, life has taken them in separate directions.
Anna studied at the University of Michigan's School of Fine Arts, concentrating in painting. Later, she earned her master's degree in social work. She works in Elkhart, Ind., for Oaklawn Family Intervention Team, a private organization involved in children and adolescent therapy.
Previously, Anna worked as the cultural arts director at the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Harbor, and she has also worked at juvenile detention centers, where she formed art workshops for the juveniles.
Maggie, on the other hand, is currently living in Florida with her husband, studying photography at the University of Florida's College of Fine Arts.
She transferred from the University of Michigan in 2001, where she studied at the School of Art and Design working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
Eventually she wants to earn a master's in photography.
Before choosing photography, Maggie said she tried out several different art forms, but had problems finding something that really captured her attention. That was before she discovered photography.
Among the things they still have in common, however, is a love of art and the possibilities of exploring the real world with their art forms.
Anna and Maggie said they are fortunate to pursue art, which is what they love to do.
Although they are pursuing their artist careers, they also see themselves working in regular jobs.
Maggie said she wouldn't mind being a photography teacher, and Anna enjoys working with children and creating art with them.
Both Maggie and Anna have had several shows displaying their artwork and have also received awards for their work.