After twenty-two years of military service in the Army, my husband and I chose the charming coastal town of Beaufort, South Carolina for our retirement home, its proximity to the University of South Carolina Beaufort campus, a bonus due to its robust art school.  My neighbor urged me to enroll in an art course for something to fill my time and I discovered that artistic expression is deeply ingrained in the human spirit.  I reveled in the vibrant world of stained glass and acrylics and my love for oil painting endures.  Yet, it was the discovery of gourd art, a chance sighting in a local publication that truly captivated my imagination.  

 

Gourd artistry transcends mere painting; it's a multifaceted craft, encompassing carving, the delicate dance of fire (pyrography), the application of unique paints and dyes, the incorporation of pine straw and botanicals—a limitless palette of possibilities. The frequent misconception that my work solely consists of birdhouses highlights the profound misconception surrounding gourd art. While historically associated with such functional items, the true artistry of the gourd embraces far greater expressive depths.

 

I immersed myself in the craft, diligently pursuing instruction through private lessons, online tutorials, and enriching conferences and workshops, where I formed connections with and learned from a passionate community of fellow gourd artists.  I am grateful for all of those teachers and the beautiful bounty from the earth that fills my soul.