2025 July Newsletter

From the Office of the President

Dear Friends and Fellow Artists,

I hope this message finds you well and inspired. I’m excited to invite you to a special Tea Party this July, where we’ll come together to enjoy fellowship, creativity, and a meaningful new tradition—Random Acts of Kindness (RAKs) through art.

RAKs are small, hand-painted tokens of appreciation gifted to others to brighten their day and spread kindness. This uplifting movement was inspired by decorative artist Tracy Moreau, who began offering free painting patterns to encourage artists to participate. These pieces are often painted on small wood shapes and turned into pins or pendants—then gifted to strangers, friends, or anyone we wish to appreciate.

Since Tracy began this initiative, artists around the world have joined in, and Deco Art has also lent their support. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the smallest gesture can have a powerful impact.

Although we are all creators, there is something extra special about receiving a handmade piece from someone whose work we admire. During our paint-ins and events, these exchanges become moments of connection, encouragement, and joy.

Event Highlights: 

Theme: Christmas in July and Halloween Fun Tea Party

    RAK Projects:

            A holiday-themed Christmas in July pin to make

            A festive Halloween pin to make

    Tea Party Gathering – Bring a dish or treat to share and a new friend who would love to learn to paint

    Idea Exchange Table – Share or display your RAK design ideas

Whether you’re painting your first RAK or your fiftieth, this event is a perfect opportunity to participate in something meaningful while enjoying one another company.

Let’s celebrate the power of art, kindness, and community. I look forward to sharing this special day with all of you and hopefully make some new friends. See photos of projects and the tea party sign up sheet for on ideas of what to bring.

Let’s spill some tea!

LeeAnn Washatka, President

2025 Seminars and Paint-ins

July 19th (Saturday)                   – Tea Party and RAKs

(Time changed due to conflicts with Westwood Village)

August 16th (Saturday)              – Terry Pulver - Bee Gourd

September 19th-20th (Fri- Sat)   – Seminar canceled - teacher unavalable

October 18th (Saturday)             – Tirzah Probasco - Rosemaling Pumpkin

November 15th (Saturday)         – TBA

December                                   – Christmas Party

If you have suggestions for projects for 2025, please let the Board know.

Chapter Dues

It's time to pay 2025 GSDP dues ($15). Checks can be made out to Golden Spike Decorative Painters and mailed to the GSDP care of Pat Reeder at 470 W 4900 S, Washington Terrace, UT 84405.

Christmas Raffles

This year at our Christmas Party we will again be having a special raffle. Scottie Foster has donated a lovely Bavarian Folk art painted tray to GSDP. Scottie's painted pieces are sought after by collectors and she has several pieces in the Smithsonian's collection of painted Christmas ornaments. In 2000 Scottie was voted one of the "10 Top Talents in 2000" by the readers of Decorative Artist's Workbook Magazine! This list of 10 all-time favorite artists "celebrates 10 of the many influential, inspiring and accomplished decorative painters in the field today." 

Tickets will be on sale from now until the drawing at the party. The cost is $1.00 per ticket. You do NOT have to be present to win.

July

Tea Party and RAKs

Cost:                  $7.50  Members

                           $0       Guests

Surface:             Provided

Date:                  July 19^th 10am - 2pm

(Time changed due to conflicts with Westwood Village)

RAK Projects:

• A holiday-themed Christmas in July pin 

• A festive Halloween pin 

Below is a list of the paints and supplies used for RAK projects. Don't worry if you don't have everything. Bring what you have and we will provide the rest. Don't forget your tea cup. Tea always tastes better from a pretty porcelain cup than a paper cup. If you are bringing a guest, please RSVP to LeeAnn (801-391-3556) so we can make sure to have enough surfaces for everyone.

                                                                             

 Palette: Déco Art

Hauser Green Lt                Forest Green

Bahama Blue                     True Blue

Asphaltum                          Lamp Black

Tuscan Red                        Warm White

Paint Adhesion Medium 

Decoupage medium

Varnish

RAK Projects

Class supplies needed:

Paint palette, water bucket and paper towels

Paint brushes

Transfer paper and stylus

Tracing Paper

Pen and Pencil

Emery board or sanding block

Hair dryer 

                                                                             

Prep:

No prep required  

                                                                            

           

The Paint-in will be held at the Westwood Village Clubhouse 1111 N. 2000 W., Farr West, UT).Take I-15 #346 and go north on 2000 W/UT-126 0.6 of mile. The Clubhouse is on the west side of the street with parking on the west side of the building.

August

Bee and Sunflowers

Cost:                $7.50

Surface:           Gourd or whatever you want to paint on. The Surface needs to be large enough to accommodate a 10''x7" pattern.

Date:                August 16^th 10am - 3pm

Palette: Déco Art

Black                             Cool Neutral

Hauser Green Dark       Cad Yellow  

Hauser Green Medium  Marigold  

Hauser Green Light       Golden Straw  

Burnt Umber                  Burnt Sienna

Titanium White

Honey Brown (or Delta Golden Brown)

Pineapple (or Delta Sunbright Yellow)

Prep:

Lightly sand surface, wipe clean and then basecoat with Honey Brown (or Golden Brown) mixed with sealer. When dry basecoat again with Honey Brown (or Golden Brown). If it does not totally cover, don't worry.  Imperfections add to the interest of the gourd. When totally dry, lightly coat with glazing medium to seal and protect the background. Dry completely and then transfer the pattern except the Bee's wings. If you have time basecoat leaves with Hauser Green Dark.

The Paint-in will be held at the Westwood Village Clubhouse 1111 N. 2000 W., Farr West, UT).Take I-15 #346 and go north on 2000 W/UT-126 0.6 of mile. The Clubhouse is on the west side of the street with parking on the west side of the building.

More Painting Opportunities – Idaho Heritage Retreat

 GSDP 's mission is to educate the community on the traditions of decorative folk art painting and to preserve these cultural legacies for future generations. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive space to connect, create and inspire one another while fostering a vibrant community.

 2025 June Newsletter

From the Office of the President

In times of challenge, change or celebration, art stands as a universal language-abridge between the inner world and the outer. It’s a medium that transcends barriers and has been an essential part of the human experience for centuries. Id’ like to explore and highlight the ways art helps us cope, preserves our legacy and provides a mirror for self-reflection.

Art has a profound way of helping us to process emotions, express the inexpressible and find solace in difficult times. Art can act as an impetus to help us release feelings that might otherwise be hard to articulate.

During stressful moments, engaging in creative expression can act a s form of therapy, reducing stress, anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that visual art can have significant benefits for metal health, helping individuals manage their emotions and heal from traumatic experiences. It is a safe space for vulnerability and a way to reconnect with ourselves when the world feels overwhelming.

Art can also serve as a timeless record of who we are, where we’ve come from and what we stand for. Through generations, the paintings, stories, songs and sculptures we create form a living history, allowing future generations understand their lives and values. Imagine how we might be adding history with all our contributions including the most recent rosemaling on violins with Lois Mueller. Lois was a treasure trove of history with her stories and experiences in the decorative arts world.

Consider how ancient cave paintings or sculptures from long forgotten civilizations still tell powerful stories today. These pieces are more than just artistic expression; they’re messages and legacies passed down through time.

Whether it is folk art or a global movement like the Harlem Renaissance, art helps preserve cultural identifies, social values and important milestones in history.

As we contribute to the world of art, we too leave behind a piece of ourselves for others to discover and learn from. In a way, it’s an ongoing conversation between the past, present and future- a thread that ties all humanity together.

Here are a few ways that you can incorporate art into your life to help you cope, reflect and preserve your legacy:

Create:    Draw, write and paint

Engage:  Visit museums, galleries or take a class from someone who will stretch your mind, imagination and abilities.

Reflect:  Take time to meditate or journal about how art makes you feel and what it might be telling you about your own life.

Art is much more that just a form of expression. It is a lifeline in difficult times. A keeper of our history and a reflective space where we can gain deeper insight into our world and ourselves. As we continue to create and experience art, we ensure that its power remains a cornerstone of human connection, reflection and legacy for generations to come.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me,

LeeAnn Washatka, President

2025 Seminars and Paint-ins

June 21st (Saturday)                   – Tirzah Probasco – Peacock Clock (Part 1)

July 19th (Saturday)                    – Tirzah Probasco – Peacock Clock (Part 2)

August 16th (Saturday)              – Tirzah Probasco - Rosemaling Pumpkin

September 19th-20th (Fri- Sat)   – Rynna Polson Seminar - Ukrainian Art Eggs

October 18th (Saturday)             – Terry Pulver - Bee Gourd

November 15th (Saturday)         – TBA

December                                   – Christmas Party

If you have suggestions for projects for 2025, please let the Board know.

Chapter Dues

It's time to pay 2025 GSDP dues ($15). Checks can be made out to Golden Spike Decorative Painters and mailed to the GSDP care of Pat Reeder at 470 W 4900 S, Washington Terrace, UT 84405.

Christmas Raffles

This year at our Christmas Party we will again be having a special raffle. Scottie Foster has donated a lovely Bavarian Folk art painted tray to GSDP. Scottie's painted pieces are sought after by collectors and she has several pieces in the Smithsonian's collection of painted Christmas ornaments. In 2000 Scottie was voted one of the "10 Top Talents in 2000" by the readers of Decorative Artist's Workbook Magazine! This list of 10 all-time favorite artists "celebrates 10 of the many influential, inspiring and accomplished decorative painters in the field today." 

Tickets will be on sale from now until the drawing at the party. The cost is $1.00 per ticket. You do NOT have to be present to win.

June

Peacock Clock (Part 1)

Teacher:         Tizah Probasco

Cost:              $7.50 (class fee)

Surface:         Clock (from Bobby Takashima Seminar --- Note Tirzah has a few clocks for sale for $45) or provide your own large metal tray. 

Date:              June 21^st 10:30 am

Palette: Jo Sonja

Amethyst               Moss Green

Aqua                     Pine Green

Brown Earth          Pthalon Green

Burnt Sienna         Raw Sienna

Carbon Black        Turners Yellow

Dioxazine Purple  Storm Blue

Warm White          Ultramarine Blue

Jo Sonja Metallic

Rich Gold

Prep:

Basecoat with Carbon Black + Sealer. Let day and basecoat again with Carbon Black. Let dry and apply pattern.

The Paint-in will be held at the Westwood Village Clubhouse 1111 N. 2000 W., Farr West, UT).Take I-15 #346 and go north on 2000 W/UT-126 0.6 of mile. The Clubhouse is on the west side of the street with parking on the west side of the building.

More Painting Opportunities – Idaho Heritage Retreat

 GSDP 's mission is to educate the community on the traditions of decorative folk art painting and to preserve these cultural legacies for future generations. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive space to connect, create and inspire one another while fostering a vibrant community.

 

2025 May Newsletter

From the Office of the President

April marked National Stress Awareness Month, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect on how each of us manages stress in our lives. Stress is a highly individual experience—what may be stressful for one person may not affect another in the same way, or it may even be overwhelming for some. Interestingly, stress can stem from both negative and positive events, such as the birth of a child or moving to a new home. While stress is a universal experience, our responses to it can differ significantly.

In an ideal world, we would all maintain a daily wellness routine. However, when faced with numerous demands, it’s often our self-care practices that take a backseat.

As part of my own wellness routine, I prioritize activities that bring me joy and peace. At times, painting serves as a therapeutic outlet, though I occasionally find myself losing the motivation to engage with it. This fluctuation may be influenced by the nature of the stress or my energy

levels at the time. The reality is that coping strategies are not one-size-fits-all, and it’s essential to have multiple ways to manage stress and cultivate joy.

During my time living in California, I would often take a day off to sit by the ocean, allowing the natural surroundings to help me reset. Unfortunately, Utah lacks the coastal retreat I once enjoyed, so I’ve had to discover new ways to decompress. Given my passion for learning, I often find solace in taking courses or attending events, even if the subject matter is not something I plan to pursue long-term.

Working in the military has granted me the opportunity to travel to various states, including California, Colorado, Texas, Washington, Ohio, Hawaii, Georgia, Washington D.C., Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Nevada. These experiences have fostered a deep love for travel, as it offers a refreshing break from daily responsibilities like cooking, cleaning, and the constant demands of life. I find travel to be deeply restorative.

Recently, after a period of intense work, my husband surprised me with an airline ticket, and we’ve decided to take an extended two-week trip. Our journey will begin in Arizona, where we will visit my father-in-law and GSPD member, Lori Jennings. From there, we will travel around New England to honor my mother-in-law’s memory and explore significant historical sites in

Boston, Salem, and Plymouth, while also visiting several neighboring states. This trip will also allow me to cross off states I have yet to visit, and I am truly excited about the upcoming adventures.

I will be returning just in time for our Spring seminar with Lois Mueller, and I am looking and I

look forward to seeing many of you there.

Looking forward to painting with everyone,

LeeAnn Washatka, President

2025 Seminars and Paint-ins

May 15th-17th (Thu-Sat)             – Lois Mueller Seminar - Rosemaling Violin

June 21st (Saturday)                   – Tirzah Probasco – Peacock Clock (Part 1)

July 19th (Saturday)                    – Tirzah Probasco – Peacock Clock (Part 2)

August 16th (Saturday)              – Tirzah Probasco - Rosemaling Pumpkin

September 19th-20th (Fri- Sat)   – Rynna Polson Seminar - Ukrainian Art Eggs

October 18th (Saturday)             – TBA

November 15th (Saturday)         – Terry Pulver - Bee Gourd

December                                   – Christmas Party

If you have suggestions for projects for 2025, please let the Board know.

Chapter Dues

It's time to pay 2025 GSDP dues ($15). Checks can be made out to Golden Spike Decorative Painters and mailed to the GSDP care of Pat Reeder at 470 W 4900 S, Washington Terrace, UT 84405.

Christmas Raffles

This year at our Christmas Party we will again be having a special raffle. Scottie Foster has donated a lovely Bavarian Folk art painted tray to GSDP. Scottie's painted pieces are sought after by collectors and she has several pieces in the Smithsonian's collection of painted Christmas ornaments. In 2000 Scottie was voted one of the "10 Top Talents in 2000" by the readers of Decorative Artist's Workbook Magazine! This list of 10 all-time favorite artists "celebrates 10 of the many influential, inspiring and accomplished decorative painters in the field today." 

Tickets will be on sale from now until the drawing at the party. The cost is $1.00 per ticket. You do NOT have to be present to win.

May Lois Mueller Seminar

Teacher:       Lois Mueller

Cost:             $250

Surface:       The pictures, patterns, instructions and paints are

included in the seminar price.

 GSDP will not be provide the surface for this seminar.

You do not have to paint on an actural violin. You may paint on any surface you wish. If you wish to paint on a violin, you will have to provide your own violin. (Tirzah has a couple of violins for sale for $25.) You can contact Tirzah at 801-336-7900 for more information.

Date:             May 15^th thru 17^th (Thursday thru Saturday)

                        Doors open 10 am

                        Seminar 10:30 am – 5:50 pm

                        Doors locked 6 pm

Seminar: There is a $50 non-refundable deposit.  The check should be made out to GoldenSpike Decorative Painters and mailed to GSDP care of Pat Reeder at 470 W 4900 S, Washington Terrace, UT 84405 by April 21st.

See Instruction sheets for paint colors and prep instructions. Will be provided when a deposit is received by GSDP.

Any remaning seminar balance must be paid when you pickup your pictures, patterns and instructions. You will be notified of the date and location of pickup.

Lunches are included in the seminar price. Bottled water will also be provided.

Contact Tirzah (801-336-7900) or Leeann (801 391-3556 ) if you have any questions about the seminar.

The Seminar will be held in the classroom of Wimmers' Sewing and Vaccum (1077 E, Gentile Street, Layton, UT). Exit I-15 at Layton Parkway, exit #330. Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto 425 S Fort Lane. Then turn right onto E Gentile Street and continue east 75' then turn right again. In 121' turn left and Wimmer's will be on the right. There is parking around the building.

June

Peacock Clock (Part 1)

Teacher:         Tizah Probasco

Cost:              $7.50 (class fee)

Surface:         Clock (from Bobby Takashima Seminar --- Note Tirzah has a few clocks for sale for $45) or provide your own large metal tray. 

Date:              June 21^st 10:30 am

Palette: Jo Sonja

Amethyst               Moss Green

Aqua                     Pine Green

Brown Earth          Pthalon Green

Burnt Sienna         Raw Sienna

Carbon Black        Turners Yellow

Dioxazine Purple  Storm Blue

Warm White          Ultramarine Blue

Jo Sonja Metallic

Rich Gold

Prep:

Basecost with Carbon Black + Sealer. Let day and basecost again with Carbon Black. Let dry and apply pattern.

The Paint-in will be held at the Westwood Village Clubhouse 1111 N. 2000 W., Farr West, UT).Take I-15 #346 and go north on 2000 W/UT-126 0.6 of mile. The Clubhouse is on the west side of the street with parking on the west side of the building.

 GSDP 's mission is to educate the community on the traditions of decorative folk art painting and to preserve these cultural legacies for future generations. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive space to connect, create and inspire one another while fostering a vibrant community.