A FEW WORDS ABOUT DOUG . . .

ANOTHER KIND OF ANNIVERSARY • I recently finished my first year since the passing of my sweet guy, Doug. It's been challenging and anyone who has lost someone they loved deeply will tell you it's tough. The only thing you can count on is change will be a "constant, " and your life will never be the same. Regardless, I'm taking baby steps forward. Doug was everything to me and blessedly, sometimes I feel him near. He was also my hero. The docs gave him 6 months to live, and he carved out another 6 years for us. I'm so grateful to Tony Conley and Tim Yap (Houston's MD Anderson) and Ray Lance (Spokane Urology) for giving him all the tools he needed to get more time. Doug fought the good fight with everything he had. He never gave up.

A REGULAR GUY • But, in between the challenges, we shared lots of wonderful memories with friends and family who helped us make the most of every moment, both before and after his diagnosis. Even though there were huge hurdles, Doug lived his life like these were just bumps in his road ~ never complaining, always sharing his crooked grin and engaging sense of humor. His best pals loved him like crazy and treated him as though he wasn't sick at all, which made his life so much sweeter. Doug loved just being a regular guy.

INSPIRATION • He inspried much of my friendly heart-warming artwork. He taught by example, helping me to see people in their best light with leeway to be themselves. He forgave often, gave folks the benefit of the doubt, reminded me that we never know what is really going on in someone else's life. He embraced light-heartedness and treasured memories. His friends, kids and grandkids were everything to him. "Don't take life too seriously. It's all good," he often shared. Most importantly, he taught me what REAL love was. I'm so grateful for our 25 years together and I hope I remember to use what he taught me until we're together again.

 

 

 

WELCOME TO MY "LIFE STORY" PAGE!

This page is all about my background and events that helped me grow into an award-winning Americana fine artist, from my first grade report card to present. "She loves artwork of all kinds and is a tireless worker," shared my inspiring first grade teacher Sister Rita Mae Fischer, who sadly passed away May 2023 at 94. Her words are still true.

This page includes press clippings, magazine articles, art festivals I've helped develop, awards received, plus many charitable causes I've supported over the years, like Spokane Symphony's Christmas Tree Elegance. NOTE: The Financial & Fine Art section below lists all the causes in greater detail.

During these many years as a fine artist, art director and graphic designer, several events and career choices have helped shape my development as a fine Americana artist. It's been my signature style for decades, although my brother Bob has a few early contemporary efforts hanging on his walls. When I visit, It's fun to see where my efforts have taken me. As much as they appreciate these early works, I'm happy I chose the creative path I did. Below I've shared some milestones.

 

 

 

 

LIFELONG INSPIRATIONS

SISTER RITA MAE FISCHER • As mentioned above, Sr. Rita Mae really inspired and encouraged me. What a gift to have that kind of influence at such an early age. I'm proud to share I was in touch with her with Christmas cards and letters most of my life, and I will miss her. NOTE: Find more information on this amazing woman further down on this page under the Patti Simpson Ward in the Press section.

Highlight ~ In Summer 2016, Spokane honored 100 years of the Franciscan Sisters service to the Inland NW. Dozens of alumni from Marycliff High School, Saint Augustine's (now Cataldo Grade School) and other parochial schools once staffed by the Franciscans filled Saint Augustine's Church for Mass and a reception afterwards. The event was "standing-room-only" ~ a true tribute to these dedicated religious educators.

GRADE SCHOOL YEARS • As early as 6th grade, I remember drawing, writing and pasting up my own magazines, newsletter and booklets at my bedroom desk (I had my own bedroom, my sisters shared theirs) often while my siblings were off playing with neighborhood pals. My heart's desire was to create!

MY FIRST "BESTIE" • From 1st grade through 6th, I shared a close friendship with Maggie McCarthy (Braeuer). We've stayed in touch these many decades since, even though she lives on the East Coast in Alexandria, VA. But, lucky me! Her cousin Molly Roberts Hannan lives nearby, so when Maggie visits Molly, I get to see her, too. A few years ago, Maggie brought some "butterfly" books I had created for her when we were in our mid-20s living not far from each other in Western Washington. Some very magic memories there!

 

FASCINATING MR. FLEMISTER • When the "Peanut People" photo (above left) was taken in 1957, my dad's sister, husband and son were visiting our family cabin at Hayden Lake, ID. Ed had taken time off from piloting a small plane for Bethlehem Steel in Venezuela, South America. Highlight ~ An aviator for decades, he helped start Wein Air Alaska (later Alaska Airlines). When not flying, Ed was an avid artist and photographer with a dark room in every home their family shared. On this visit, I begged my uncle for art lessons. My first one was the "Peanut People" exercise here.

HIS LAST TWO EXHIBITS • When Ed was in his mid-90s, he showed much of his art and photography in a Baker City, OR gallery to stellar reviews. Four years later after moving to Tampa to be closer to son Jim's family, the Tampa Public Library hosted his very successful ~ and final exhibit. The Tampa Tribune publish a glowing pictorial praising his considerable talent and zest for life. Ed passed away at 98 January 2015 after spending Christmas with his family. On Facebook, his grandson Todd recalled Ed as being "one of the most fascinating men" he'd ever known. The end of a wonderful life . . .

 

MURALS AND MORE AT SAINT JOHN VIANNEY GRADE SCHOOL

OUR MOVE TO THE SPOKANE VALLEY IN THE 1960S • In November 1962, my family moved from our South Hill Dutch Colonial to a sleek mid-century modern that Sally Mom fell in love with in suburban Spokane Valley. She had seen a pictorial of it in Sunset Magazine. When the "For Sale" sign went up, Dad bought if for her, and we all moved to her "dream house."

At my new grade school, Saint John Vianney, frequently I in back of our classroom working on murals with others who loved these artistic endeavours. Often, creating these "masterpieces" happened during math class. Math can still be a challenge, especially during tax season!

10+ YEARS OF CAMP FIRE GIRLS ~ I earned many arts & crafts awards when it was a girls-only orgaization. My Camp Fire years also brought Summer job in during college in 1969 as a couselor at Camp Dart-Lo on the Little Spokane River north of Spokane. I taught drama and arts & crafts. Sharing ideas with youngsters was rewarding and I'm sure I learned more from my little campers than they did from me. Their most creative project? Origami bird mobiles made from fishing line and colored paper!

 

 

HNA, EWSC AND MY FIRST FREELANCE DESIGN PROJECT

FINE ART & GRAPHIC DESIGN CLASSES / WORKSHOPS • During high school at Holy Names Academy, I enrolled in basic and advanced design classes. I also took advantage of weekend creative workshops at Fort Wright College. Sally Mom encouraged me then and still does today. I didn't know then exactly what my artistic niche would be, but these classes helped clarify my dream for a career in art and design.

In Summer 2013, the 125th Anniversary Celebration of the arrival of Holy Names Sister to our region was held at what had once been Fort Wright College. Alumni, sisters and other educators came from all over the United State. Amazingly, I was able to reconnect with Sister Shirley Mallory (Justin Mary), my high school art instructor who taught me the fundamentals of design and the importance of being true to your creative passion.

Highlight ~ As you can see by the photo (left), the reunion meant a a lotl to both of us. I was so grateful to be able to let her know what having her as my mentor and teacher meant to me. How lucky were we to re-connect?

Sadly, this very talented educator passed away just a few short months after we connecte. I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Sister Celine Steinberger's for helping make this reunion happen (more on her below). Find more information about the 125th Anniversary festivities further down on this page in the Holy Names Sisters section.

 

 

 

UNDER-GRADUATE YEARS AT EWSC ~ PLUS EARLY DESIGN PROJECTS

A FUN EWSC PROJECT • During my two-plus years as an under-graduate at Eastern Washington State College (now a University), a good friend asked me to design the graphics for his campaign to be student body president. (Yes, he won!) Later, John Allen opened "Vino," and built his reputation as a successful wine expert and vinter. It has become the "go to" place in Downtown Spokane for exceptional wine choices.

MY FIRST PROFESSIONAL PROJECT • Soon after John's election campaign, a college classmate introduced me to her dad, then president of the local National Syndicate Advertising Agency. After perusing my portfolio of sketches and line drawings, he commissioned me to create a year's worth of 50 print ads to sell cars using an "All American" theme. The project was as a great fit for me.

Between my sophomore and junior year that Summer, I completed all the ad images for the presentation booket (left), "The People's Choice." 1970 was a national election year, so the timing of this ad campaign was perfect. Although the copy I have today is dog-eared and faded, it was a treat to find it again among the banker's boxes Sally Mom recently handed off to me.

In Autumn 1974, instead of continuing at EWSC, I moved to Seattle. For a couple years, I shared homes with my sister Peggy and four others girls near the University of Washington. I began working as a designer at the Western WA Headquarters of the Bon Marche HQ (later Macy's), spending the next 16 years graphically supporting their large group of satellite stores with signage and more.

Highlight ~ One afternoon, when Peggy and I were driving up Aurora Avenue in Seattle, we were amazed to see one of my "People's Choice" ads on the billboard above the highway ~ a job well done!

 

 

THE "PEGGY YEARS" IN SEATTLE'S UNIVERSITY DISTRICT

STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION • In 1974, life was in a pretty white Cape Cod near the U of W Husky Statium. In 1975, we moved to a Foursquare two-story off Greek Row. NOTE: Both are pictured in my painting, "THE PEGGY PLACES" (see it on my COMMISSION page) which I created for my sister when she married her childhood sweetheart, Jeff Barton, in 1976.

During time with Peggy, a couple of life-changing events took place. One Christmas, I received a book of Grandma Moses American Primitive Winter-themed paintings (still in my library ). Equally importantly, I discovered the art of Charles Wysocki when housemate Dawn Tanneburg tacked an "Americana Calendar" to her door. I fell in love with the heartfelt work of both these artists ~ and was especially taken with Wysocki's attention to detail. Seeds of the "Americana" style plante . . ..

MY AMERICANA DREAM • Originally from Detroit, most of Wysock'si art was of imaginary settings, some inspired by New England. "Why not paint real subjects?" I asked myself as the Northwest was filled with inspiring places begging to be painted. Our family's brick Dutch Colonial was my favorite home growing up, (left) so in 1975, it was my first subject. Still part of my collection, it reminds me where and when I began working in this genre. As evidenced by my work on this website, I've moved far beyond the early "folk art" feel ~ adding more perspective and personal detail to each piece.

EARLY EXHIBITS • In 1976-1980, several Americana early works were sold at a small Bellvue art gallery, followed by others exhibited in the Kirkland Art Walk District. Find more about my later exhibits below in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section below.

MY SIGNATURE AND MORE • I created a special signature ~ the word "Patti" with a circle and heart to dot the 'i." As my love of this style grew, I began carrying my camera (now my iPhone) everywhere to capture subjects that inspired. A trip to Port Townsend in the late '70s with my sister Marilee spawned over 14 works of the beloved Victorians there (Port Townsend Collection pdf). Digital media changed the art world, as so many more creative folks can self-publish their work!

 

 

AN AMAZING TRIP TO THE FORMER SOVIET UNION

AN AMAZING ADVENTURE • In 1987, I traveled with a media group of motivational speakers, professors, doctors and civic leaders to the former Soviet Union. This included a week each in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Tashkent (Seattle's Sister City during the Reagan-Gorbachev "Perestroika" era). Sadly, this enilghtened way of thinkgin stopped when Gorbachev lost power.

FRIENDS & MY ARTWORK • In Tashkent, I made friends with three accomplished women ~ a professor, a medical student and an art gallery curator. We corresponded for awhile after our trip until Russia rejected Perestroika and tighted restrictions there. Meeting the curator opened a door for me, as with help from former Seattle Mayor Royer's Russian-born wife Tatiana, she arranged for two of my works honoring our Russia experience to be hung in the National Art Gallery of Tashkent.

One was the Octover 7 Revolution parade art (left). The other,"THE CHILDREN OF TASHKENT" was inspired by by an invitation by my professor friend for us to visit a grade school. Remarkably, the students read several poems in flawless English. At dinner that night, we wondered how many folks in the United States would have been able to speak Russian as fluently as these brilliant children spoke English. See these paintings on my MORE COLLECTION page.

SISTER CITIES • The Sister City relationship between Seattle and Tashkent was a goodl fit in the late '80s, as the personality of the two cities was similar. Tashkent was miles from Moscow's governmental seat, and even though it was still part of the Soviet Union then, it was more open than Moscow. Also, pre-Microsoft Seattle's big industry was Boeing and Tashkent was home to Aeroflat.

MOSCOW & ST. PETERSBURG • Thanks to Perestroika, Intourist guides led us though Moscow's gilded onion-domed government buildings off Saint Peter's Square. One museum displayed items from the executed Russian royal family ~ Faberge eggs, the crown jewels and more. In Saint Petersburg, we visited the palaces of Peter the Great and Catherine the Great, restored after World War II when the Germans smashed them and other magnificent structures to bits. We also visited legendary Leo Tolstoy's apartment ("War & Peace," Anna Karenina," etc.). Once in a lifetime!

Highlight ~ This trip was a culture and history-lover's dream, but it opened my eyes to how lucky I was to have been born in the U.S.A., and how priceless our freedom and opportunities are here.

 

 

 

HOW MY CALENDARS BEGAN 30 YEARS AGO

SIS MARILEE'S SWEET SUGGESTION • To dovetail with my exhibits and art fests (and to placate family members who had received one piece of artwork too many), my sister Marilee suggested I design calendars to annually showcase recently finished works. 1994 marked my first effort.

Highlight ~ The cover (left) shared my third portrait of the beloved Codd house ~ this one portraying our Simpson family home in the 1950s with all of us decortaing it with #9 Christmas lights. it's still painting part my collection.

2024 marks my 30th Anniversary offering these colorfu lheartfelt date-keeprs. Today, I sell hundreds of copies, often designing them in as many as four editions and shipping them all over the United States and beyond. A handful of clients have collected them since very early days!

Spokanites, hither and yon, seem to carry nostalgic memories of growing up here in the "city with a small town feel." Its neighborhoods, parks, schools, churches, homes, landmarks ~ and of course, people ~ make it a very special place for many.

 

 

BROWN'ES ADDITION'S VERY FIRST ARTFEST

A FORTUITOUS COLLABORATION • In August 1997, the Eastern Washington Historical Society in partnership with The MAC (Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture) (NorthwestMuseum.org) invited me to exhibit at the first ArtFest. I presented 18 recently completed works picturing Coeur d'Alene park and many famous historic residences.

Browne's Addition with its "gingerbread"-style gazebo in old Coeur d'Alene Park is Spokane's first and oldest neighborhood. Several historic homes there were designed by renowned architect, Kirtland Kelsey Cutter for Spokane's wealthiest citizens who made their money logging Idaho's forests and mining the region. Cutter homes included the Walkefield House, the Patrick Clark Mansion, the Finch House and The MAC's Campbell House (still receiving restoration efforts). My ArtFest collection included portraits of all of these. Find them and more (plus over a dozen Campbell House paintings) in the Browne's Addition section of my SPOKANE+ COLLECTION web page.

Highlight ~ After World War II in the late 1940s, owners of large Browne's Addition residences were pressured to convert their homes into multi-family apartments for servicemen returning home from World War II. Currently there is a movement in the neighborhood to restore these back to single-family status ~ a blessing for this revered historically valuable area.

SPECIAL EDITION CALENDAR • Also at that early ArtFest, my 1997 "Paciic NW Memories" calendar did a beautiful job of introducing my Americana artwork to the Inland NW.

THE FIRST MUSEUM • The Campbell House served as the Cheney-Cowles Museum until The MAC complex was finished and opened to the public. Restoration work on the mansion which had been donated to Spokane by the Campbell's only daughter Helen began when her mother Grace died. Remarkably, architect Kirtland Cutter's sample book was found in the attic's servants' quarters that took up much of the third floor ~ a huge help to the these important efforts.

NOTE: Sadly, COVID was not friendly to the MAC's tradition of conducting docent-led tours of the Campbell House. Blessedly, this is again in place as well as additional restoration work.

THE MUSEUM STORE • I have a collection of art cards of Spokane / Inland NW and Campbell House scenes at the store available for purchase. In 2021, I offered a calendar of Campbell House images at art events that featured three NEW paintings ~ the small guest room with teddy bears (these toys appeared about the time the Campbells moved into their home), the men's cardroom, and a third showing the back yard gazebo. Folks loved it and dozens sold. In 2022, I finished three NEW neighborhood works, the pink apartment house on Pacific Avenue, The 1899 B&B and Browne's Boomtown Bistro." Highlight ~ Sadl, now closed, this bistro hung my art in its dining room.

125 YEARS AT COEUR D'ALENE PARK • A few years ago, restoration of the Coeur d'Alene Park band pavilion was completed. I gave the park stewardship group permission to use the painting image (left) "The Pavilion at Coeur d'Alene Park" on posters for the park's 125th Birthday fundraiser. Learn more about this in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section below.

 

 

 

OPPORTUNITIES IN OLYMPIA'S LEGISLATIVE BULDING

MY PAINTINGS AT WASHINGTON'S STATE LANDMARK CAPITOL BUILDING

In 1997, just as Doug and I began dating, I was honored by Lt. Governor Brad and Mrs. Owen, avid advodates of Washington State's diverse fine artists. Patricia M. Prince met me at my first ArtFest mentioned above, and recommended my work to the Owens. She admired my portraits of the Browne's Addition homes and other settings from all over the state, and knew the Owens would find them a nice fit for their upcoming exhibits.

"CHILDREN AT PLAY IN WASHINGTON STATE" • The couple invited me to join other artists exhibiting originals in Olympia's State Capitol Legislative Building (left). The opening of "Children at Play in Washington State" was followed by a reception attended by state dignitaries, legislators, visiting school children, the artists' families and many more.

DINO ROSSI • A high point of the day-long event was when Doug and I were introduced tot Dino Ross, who we found to be a genuine engaging man committed to the needs of folks living in Washington State. Later when he ran for Washington State Governor, we were disappointed that he lost the election, as he'd made such a positibe impression on both Doug and me. The art event took place only a couple of months after Doug and I met, so it was wonderful to be able to include him in the prestigious festivities that day. This event is still a fond memory these many years later.

This exhibit and reception inspired my "HAPPY HOIDAYS AT THE LEGISLATIVE BUILDING" (left) art of the majestic State Capitol building. When I fiished it, Governor Gary Locke was serving his second term. I gave both him and Lt. Governor Brad Owen framed artwork of this Holiday scene.

"Children at Play" was just one of four exhibits at the Legislative Building featuring works from the collections on my SPOKANE and PUGET SOUND web pages during the 1990s and 2000s. Heading up a committee of committed volunteers, what a gift this couple was who worked so hard to promote our state's artists. The halls of the Legislative Building were a spectacular backdrop for all of us.

Lt. Governor Brad Owen retired after a long, generous career of public service. Everyone involved with both the Owens and their creataive team are still very grateful.

 

 

THE SISTERS OF THE HOLY NAMES OF JESUS AND MARY

A SIMPLE THANK YOU • You never know what ripple effect the smallest gesture can create. A simple thank you note to high school principal brought a host of unexpected gifts my way. It's been 5+ decades since I graduated from Holy Names Academy, but the happy memories of school days, class reunions, and other celebrations are still fresh.

A LITTLE HISTORY • When Gonzaga Prep began accepting women students, Holy Names Academy and Marycliff (South Hill all-girls Catholic high school) just coudln't compete with Prep's co-ed platform. Declining enrollment caused the Academy to close Iin 1975. After over a decade of neglect, local deveoper Harry (Hank) A. Green created an upscale retirement center from the structure, retaining much of its original architectural details. A while back, the Academy building was purchased by a Salt Lake City company committed to accomplishing a great deal more restoration work on the historic structure. Highlight ~ When the old Marycliff Music Hall (F. Lewis Clark House) and its South Hill campus closed, it was converted into upscale office space, adopting it old name of "Undercliff."

AN UNEXPECTED HONOR • In Spring 2001 as mentioned above, I sent a thank you note to retired principal Sister Eileen Rose at the Spokane convent. I heard from Communications Coordinator Becky Sullivan and the Director of Development Sister Celine Steinberger, asking if they could use my school portrait (left) in a publication devoted to creative alumni. My artwork of HNA was chosen as cover art the for the SNJM Washington Partners in Miission Magazine ~ such an honor!

FOUR SEASONS OF HOLY NAMES • In Summer 2013, I donated four different portraits of Holy Names settings in the Pacific NW Province (Washington, Idaho and Oregon) to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the order's arrival to the region. These four pieces still hang on the walls of their regional offices on the South Hill ~ remarkably a couple blocks from my home here on Moran Prairie.

Highlight • John Stockton, retired Utah Jazz basketball star, grew up across Superior Street from Holy Names Academy. His son recently began headed up Spokane's famous "Hoopfest" event.

 

 

OVERVIEW OF THE FOUR HOLY NAMES PAINTINGS

• SPRING • "CELEBRATING SPRING AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" (Revised, 2013) • This piece was a revision of the original 1997 portrait featured on the newsletter cover above. I reworked it to commemorate the milestone celebration, donating a larger version to the event's live auction.

• SUMMERl • "LITTLE GROTTO IN THE WOODS" (2004) • This piece portrayed the rustic shelter created by volunteers to house the statue of the Blessed Mother at what was once their Fort Wright Convent. The beloved stature was part of the Holy Names Academy Superior Street gardens as well. Sister Eilieen Rose and Faher Lehman, S.J. who blessed Doug and my marriage were included in the scene. Sadly, both these beloved inspiring souls have passed away.

• AUTUMN • "AUTUMN AT THE ACADEMY THROUGH THE YEARS" (2010) • Seattle's Holy Names Acdaemy alum Betty Chandler commissioned this portrait. Together we donated framed prints to Seattle's HNA annual auction over a four-year period. Students, parents and alums just loved this artwork featuring classmates on the sidewalk wearing school uniforms spanning several decades.

• WINTER • "SNOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" • After seeing the old Spokane school building blanketed in snow one Winter, I was inspired to paint it a second time. Learn more about the dedication of this painting in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section below.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU • Doug and I owe so much gratitude to the Holy Names Sisters for their love and support during my Doug's 6-year battle with cancer. In addtion to all of their worthy projects and activities, when challenges would flare, the first person I phoned for support was Sr Celine Steinberger. She and the sisters sent prayers for patience, perseverance, and complete recovery. Often these made all the differents. Sadly, Sr. Celene, our "angel on earth," passed away suddenly on Christmas Day, 2017. We and others missed her terribly. NOTE: Sr. Celine Steinberger is pictured below in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section at the unveiling of the "SNOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" painting.

 

2015 CHRISTMAS COMMISSION FROM SISTER CELINE

A HOLIDAY HONOR • In 2015, Sr. Celine invited me to design the order's annual Christmas ornament and card. Each year, this task was always awarded to a different Holy Names province and in 2015, the honor fell to the Pacific Northwest Chapter, so Sister Celine tried something new.

Since the program began in 1994, a Holy Names Sisiter had always designed the artwork, but at Sister Celine's request, I became the first and only secular alum to contribute to this special tradition. It was a bittersweet honor as who knew she had only a couple of Christmases left to celebrate?

My Nativity image (left) was a pen & ink sketch colored with pastels, and was featured on the cards and ornaments sent to all alumni. Especially generous doners received a fine crystal ornaments with the art etched on it by Barone Crystal (BaroneCrystal.com). This ornament always found a place on our tree. I'm so honored that my design became part of this special Holy Names Christmas tradition.

For more information about the retirement connumity of theHoly Names Sisters in the local Spokane area, please contact them at:

Office of the Sisters of the Holy Names, Washington Province • Address 5919 South Regal Road, Suite 308, Spokane, WA 99223-6024 • Tel 509.328.7470 • Email ProvAdmin@SNJMuson.org.

 

 

 

ART DIRECTING / GRAPHIC DESIGN • MOST RECENT FIRST

2017-2024 • ART DIRECTOR, UPDATE NEWSLETTER, SPOKANE PRESERVATION ADVOCATES

POLISHING COMMUNICATION TOOLS • In December 2016, outgoing SPA's President Bridget Piper and I met and discussed the need for polishing some communication pieces SPA used to educated folks about goals / projects to preserve historic Inland NW settings. We tossed around ideas, but agreed that over time, the need for preservation has grown, expenses have expanded and grant requests have become more substantial.

Goals included growing SPA and assuring its issues get the attention and support needed to help keep developers from destroying one-of-a-kind settings in Spokane and the Inland NW.

UPDATE • My main project was a revamping of SPA's quarterly newsletter. Partnering with Executive Coordinator Dave Shockley who organizes stories and images from contributors, we freshened up the piece by adding table of contents, re-creating the "Join Spokane Preservation Advocates NOW" page, and sharing images in a more compelling, graphically pleasing way.

Dave has always made this responsibility easy for me, even during the COVID years. We mailed our first revised issue in March 2017. Lots of positive feedback came our way about how great it looked, how easy it was to navigate, read and (most importantly) remember content.

The current Fall 2024 UPDATE (left) promotes this Fall's upcoming Annual Tour of HIstoric Homes on Spokane's South Hill. It also shares an overview of past events and challenges including the possible demise of the Jensen Byrd Building in the Downtown University District by WSU. For more information visit SPA's website (SpokanePreservation.org).

 

 

2017-2019 • ART DIRECTOR, MOORE TURNER HERITAGE GARDENS

BACKGROUND DETAILS • The Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens were installed in the early 1900s behind the F. Rockwood Moore mansion. George and Bertha Turner purchased it upon Moore's early passing, but ultimately the structure was donated to the community. Tragically, it was demolished due to the the lack of funds for maintenancne during the Great Depression ~ a huge loss, as many believe it to be Kirtland Cutters first residential commission.

THE 1996 ICE STORM AND MYRTLE WOLDSON • This ice storm destroyed trees where the gardens had been and exposed original features created by Portland's Hugh Bryan. On a walk afterwards, the Corbin Art Center director at the time discovered these which spawned a restoration project largely funded by philanthropist Mrytle, Woldson. Volunteers partnered with Spokane's Parks & Recreation, spending hours resurrecting the gardens with heritage plantings.

THE BEGINNING OF "FRIENDS" • The stewarship organization "Friends of Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens" (HeritageGardens.org) was formed to support the gardens and the Corbin Mansion. With the Corbin House on its left and the F. Lewis Clark mansion to the right, these remain the only heritage gardens in Washington State.

In January 2017, I was invited by historian Linda Yeoman's to be art director for "Friends," with the goal of resurrecting the original graphic vision created when the organization began (left). I also created all the collateral materials for two huge fundraisers, May's Mother's Day Tea and September's Art in Bloom. After just two years, I retired due to Doug's untimely rare cancer diagnosis. A very hopeful board is working hard on future projects and fundraising events after the setbacks of COVID years. I wish them all the best with their worthy efforts.

 

 

2014-2024 • FREELANCE DESIGNER, BROWNE'S ADDITION NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL • PAST ART DRECTOR, FRIENDS OF CDA PARK

BROWNE'S ADDITION • Before and after COVID, I helped the Browne's Addition Neighborhood Council and Treasurer Julie Biggerstaff as I could. Browne's Addition has always had a special place in my heart as one of my first apartments was in Brunot Hall, the Episcopal School for Girls converted into apartments (Helen Campbell a famous student). See my art of it in the Browne's Addition Collection pdf.

Projects included creating posters and program covers for 5 years of Coeur d'Alene Park's Summer Concert Series (left). 2024 has one of the biggest lineup's ever for this complimentary music series.

OTHER EVENTS ~ THE FLAG & SPOOKWALK • I also helped Julie with the neighborhood identity flag a few years back. In October 2019, I designed the logo and first poster for Historian Mary Lou Sprou's SpookWalk. Her annual "Fun & Fright" walking tours at dusk highlight Browne's Addition's haunted mansions. Highlight ~ Patsy Clark's is believed to have its own resident ghost. A cemetary is also on the list. The two-hour tours starts at dusk several evenngs on Halloween week at the E.J. Roberts Secret Garden for apple cider and pumpkin carols. The modest tour fee benefits Friends of CDA Park.

PAST ART DIRECTOR FOR FRIENDS OF CDA PARK • As mentioned above, Coeur d'Alene Park is Spokane's first and oldest park. In 2014 I signed on with Julie Biggerstaff and Mary Lou Sproul to be the art director for "Friends," designing logos and communication pieces for both print / web.

"ART FOR THE PARK" • In 2014,"Friends" presented improvement plans to the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department to bring it more in-line with the 1890s vision of the Olmsted Bros. 2016 was the park's 125th birthday. A kick-off benefit dinner was held in Autumn 2015 at Patsy Clark's where Bob Scarfo's Master Plan and my vintage-themed art of the park were unveiled. See "VINTAGE VIEW OF COEUR D'ALENE PARK in the Inland NW Parks and Gardens Collection pdf. May 2016's "Art for the Park" brought attention to the setting with a community art event. I designed all the materials promoting it. The event had four street intersection mural artists, kid's activities, and booths of local artists.

September 2016 marked the close of the birthday celebration held at The MAC. My painting went to the owners of the 1899 House B&B. Funds raised from the celebration greatly improved CDA Park.

 

 

 

A HUGE NEW STEP • In 1974, when I moved to Seattle to accept a graphic design position there, I still returned to the Inland NW frequently for art events at the Spokane Club, the MAC's ArtFest and others. In 2002 after Doug and my marriage (2000), we purchased a South Hill Craftsman cottage near Manito Park, as we knew we'd return to Spokane when Doug retired. We rented out our home until our final return in 2011. Since then wiith very few exceptions, all of my Art Fests and "Meet & Greets have included NEW Art Unveilings. I've highlighted my initial FIRST FRIDAY event below.

 

UNVEILINGS, EXHIBITS AND AWARDS • MOST RECENT FIRST

2017-2020 UNVELINGS • FIRST FRIDAY POKANE ART WALK AND MORE

UNVEILING • E.J. ROBERTS FIRST FRIDAY • A year after Doug and I moved back from Western Washington, I unveiled my art of "SNOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" (pictured with other Holy Names art above) at the First Friday event at E.J. Loewenberg-Roberts Mansion. As mentioned above, owner Mary Moltke spent decades restoring the 1889 Queen Anne after the Roberts family finally sold it.

My First Friday appearance was attended by Holy Names Academy alumns (Molly Roberts Hannan was an HNA graduate, too) and several Holy Names Sisters, including Sr. Celine Steinberger and Sr. Paula Mary Turnbull. NOTE: This internationally famous artist passed away in 2018.

The First Friday invitation was timely as Spokane was in the midst of hosting the National Historic Preservation Society Convention. The event also dovetailed beautifully with the nationally sponsored "Candlelight Sumner Avenue Tour of Historic Homes" on the brow of Spokane's South Hill that Winter.

Since this initial First Friday Art Walk, my work has been featured at Barrister Winery, Marketplace Winery, Grande Ronde Cellars, Arbor Crest's Tasting Room, the Kendall Yards Welcome Center, and others.

 

 

2011 AWARD WINNER 1ST PLACE • REDMOND SATURDAY MARKET FINE ART COMPETITION

AWARD • This al fresco venue took place on Saturdays from late Spring through Halloween in Downtown Redmond, WA. Across the 520 Bridge from Seattle, it was located on a large grassy area dotted with shade-giving Ponderosa pines during hot months when the market was in full swing.

Although I retired as an active member of "The Market," (Doug and I returned to Spokane in late 2011) my swan song was winning First Place with my portrait of the Redmond Saturday Market, "MEETING AT THE MARKET" that year for the best image capturing the market experience. Filled with vendors, shoppers, families and their pets enjoying the setting, folks loved this portrait!

RSM asked me to design the event poster with my award-wining image to promote the market's milestone 35th season. Dozens of these were displayed throughout King County's Eastside neighborhoods from May 1st through October 31st. See the poster and the two articles written about me in the Redmond Reporter below in the My Presence in The Press section.

To learn more about this thriving Western Washington outdoor venue (second only to Seattle's Pike Place Public Market) visit their website at RedmondSaturdayMarket.org.

 

 

2011 CITY WIDE EXHIBIT • CO-CHAIR & ART DIRECTOR, SAMMAMISH ART FAIR

ART DIRECTING & EXHIBIT • SAMMAMISH ANNUAL ART EVENT• After two years of volunteering, in 2010, Sammamish's City Council and Fine Arts Commisiion invited me to co-chair its big art event. It took six months of planning, promoting and organizing to bring this 33-artist driven co-op to complete fruition. In addition to the many logistical challenges it took to make this happens, as art director, I handled all the graphic design and production for it, including:

The City of Sammamish and its Arts Commision were generous with their apprecation of the many months of work done by me and another fine artist, sharing that attendance was nearly twice what it was the previous year!

 

2008 EXHIBIT • KIRKLAND ARTS CENTER MEMBERS' EVENT

EXHIBIT • In August 2008, my Americana neighborhood-style painting, "SPRINGTIME COMES TO SIMPSON STREET" was chosen to be in the Kirkland Arts Center Members' Exhibit (KirklandArtsCenter.com). I finished the first edition of this ambitious work just in time for the exhibit, with its final revision done in January 2023 when I added our current home Doug and I bought in 2020. Visit my COMMISSION web page to see it and follow the 15-year process of creating this very fun personal piece.

SIX HOMES AND MORE • Five of six homes pictured in the art were from Spokane, with one in Sammamish that Doug owned when we began dating. The top half showed the three houses where I grew up during the '50s to the '60s. The lower half showed all three homes where Doug and I shared our 25 years together.

LOTS OF CHANGES • This was 15 years of changes. Not only were there residences, but around each, details like pets, bicycles and vehicles, including the red VW bus I took my 1967 driver's license test in. I grouped family by each house ~ including my Simpson grandparents, cousin Jim Flemister who lived with us during high school / college dats, parents, siblings, spouses, kids and grandkids. Stepkids Matt, Kevin and Leah shared that no more kids were planned, so it seemed the right time to finish the painting in 2023.

Highlight ~ The Members Exhibit was a medley of different styles from dozens of artists ~ FUN each year!

 

 

2008 AWARD • WINNER 2ND PLACE, CITY OF REDMOND, REDMOND HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND EASTSIDE ASSOCIATION OF FINE ARTS

AWARD • THREE REDMOND ART AND HISTORY ORGANIZATIONS • Three prestigous entities sponsored a competition calling for fine art and photography that honored Redmond, WA's history including its Bicycle Derby Days festival. 65 works were exhibited (four were mine) in the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Cernter. My portrait of Redmond's Mayor Bill Brown's (30 years in office) brick structure, "THE BILL BROWN BUILDING" won 2nd Place.

This Independence Day-themed work featured colorful bicyles as Derby Days was a bicycle-themed celebration. This art was exhibited alternately for nearly a decade between Redmond's City Hall and the Public Llibrary until Doug and I returned to Spokane in late 2011. The Eastside Collection pdf shares a Redmond section featuring over a dozen portraits of parks, landmark structures, small businesses and more.

Highlight ~ During 2012 and 2013 after we returned to Eastern Washington, I accepted Redmond's project to design several large historical banners for their milestone anniversary celebration. This was an honor received through my long association with the community and the Redmond HIstorical Society. For more information on the very active civic-minded RHS, visit them at RedmondHistoricalSociety.org.

 

 

2007-1990 EXHIBIT • BOTHELL'S ARTISTREE GALLERY AT COUNTRY VILLAGE

EXHIBIT • GALLERY NORTH OF SEATTLE • For 10+ years, I exhibited my Americana art at a COZY art gallery at Country Village. Once a small Bothell, WA farm, its outbuildings were converted into shops. Bob James and daughters Robin and Wendy invited me to join their group of artists.

TWO CREATIVE GENIUSES • When I worked in the creative studios in the downtown Bon Marche Flagship Store, Bob worked adjacently across the hall in the Store Planning section. He was famous for creating the signature star once used during Christmas in Seattle, and the Madona in Spokane. For decades, Bob had his fingers in lots of creative pies, but primarily Holiday Decor, until the chain of departments stores was absorbed by Macy's in the mid-1980s.

Bob's equally famous Robin daughter was a published children's author and illustrator for the Serendipity series. Some of these beloved books are some still available. Bob's other daughter Wendy created whimsical jewelry pieces that really flew out the gallery door at Christmastime.

ARTISTREE ARTISTS • I was one of several exhibiting there for a decade+. The gallery featured my images of Roche Harbor, Port Townsend, Snohomish, Seattle, Tacoma, King County's Eastside, the Oregon Coast and many other locations.

CHRISTMAS AT THE VILLAGE• Country Village and The Artistree came alive during the Holidays with carolers, decorations, open houses and more. The gallery requested Holiday-themed art in keeping with the theme. The highlight was Santa in his sleight flying down into the plaza to the delight of all shoppers. It was a fun decade and the James family was a dream to work with.

Sadly for all of us, a developer made the owner of Country Village an offer he couldn't refuse, and the quaint collection of shops, galleries and cafes closed forever. The property went on to becme a neighborhood of expensive residences. Folks who remember still miss this destination.

A SPECIAL EXHIBIT • In Autumn 1999, the James family presented "An Evening of Americana Art" exhibiting my and Sonny Salsbury's work. My friendly paintings are very detailed in contrast to Sonny's paintings which echoed Grandma Moses' work, but both our styles were well received.

Highlight ~ In February 2023, when Doug and I were in San Deigo for niece Stephanie's wedding to Ryan Gawne, we visited Hotel Del Coronado's (their honeymoom destination) gift shop. I found colorful art of the resort that looked like Sonny's style. Amazingly, it was his ~ 25 years later!

 

 

 

I'M SO GRATEFUL TO MY DOUG AND VERY KIND FRIENDS!

When COVID caused event cancellations in 2020-2021, I was grateful that Spokane retail shops like Riverfront Park's Carousel Shop, the South Monroe ACE, and UPS on Moran Prairie continued to offer my work.

Sadly, Doug's health challenges finally took him in September 2023, so responsibilities surrounding life in genera, his celebration of life, coupled with my sad heart, made in-person events impossible. As I slowly, but surely took baby steps back towards more balance, I've gradually added personal appearances back into my schedule. Here is a list off folks who have helped me in the past ~ including my best supporter, Doug.

 

 

 

PRESS DURING THE LAST 17 YEARS • MOST RECENT FIRST

2023 • SPA UPDATE NEWSLETTER • "THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE ART" TO ACCOMPANY THE HOLIDAY 2023 UPDATE

AN HONOR FROM MY EDITOR, DAVE SHOCKLEY

In the recent December 2023 SPA UPDATE, Executive Coordinator Dave Shockly invited me to use my portrait of the Loewenberg-Roberts Mansion" to highlight the lead article.

ABOUT THIS SETTING • Included in my first ArtFest exhibit was this portrait of "THE CHRISTMAS HOUSE." Remarkably, the Roberts' family became owners as the result of a trade between them and the Loewenbergs during the latter's financial difficulties. The initial painting done in 1997, pictured me in a plaid dress about to welcome guests for Christmas cheer. It was my card art that year.

In the early 1950s, I met Molly (E.J. Roberts grand-daughter) when her family moved next to our house on Lincoln Street in 1952. Her cousin Maggie McCarthy was my "bestie" during 6 years at Saint Augustine's School in the '50s and '60s. Molly, Maggie and I are all still close friends.

Highlight ~ In October 2023, I added these two into the art, trimming a tree. Molly celebrated her milestone birthday at E.J.'s in January 24, and Maggie came from Alexandria, VA . I gave Molly the original with all three of us, now part of her collection of art I've done for her over the decades.

 

 

2019-2024 • ARBOR CREST ART & GLASS FESTS, HOLIDAY EVENTS, PLUS THE NEW 2023 "AUTUMN BRILLIANCE AT ARBOR CREST" ART

ARBOR CREST EVENTS • The painting in this poster, "KRIS KRINGLE COMES TO THE CLIFF HOUSE" pictured the annual Holiday festival. Robin Fontaine (Crispy Communications) handled design for the cellars for many promotional events over several years.

PROMO FOR THREE ARBOR CREST EVENTS • She did a beautiful job with the posters, ads in The Spokane Inlander and website graphics. In addition to the artwork featured on the poster (left) Robin used two others, "THE CLIFF ART AT ARBOR CREST" and "GATHERING AT THE GATE HOUSE." Highlight ~ When Robin retired in 2019, she shared how happy she was that her last AC project used my art, and how much she enjoyed our collaboration in earlier days when she worked for The MAC. In recent years, I was delighted to learn that Arbor Crest wanted to use my images to promote future events.

ABOUT ROYAL RIBLET • There are conflicting stories about Riblet, but this version seems to be relatively authentic. In 1924, he had his Florentine mansion built for the view from the property's cliffs. An inventor / mechanical genius, his estate was filled with his inventions like mechanized garage doors and falls that recycled water backup to the top of them. His most famous marvel was the chair-lift ~ freeing skiiers around the world from using T-Bars or climbing back up the slopes. He was inspired by a visit to a mine site where he watch ore buckets go up and down a belt from the mine to freight cars below. Voile!

NEW "AUTUMN BRILLIANCE AT ARBOR CREST " • In 2022, I collaborated with Marcia Mielke (owner with husband Harry for decades of the Cliff House Estate) on a portrait of the stunning gatehouse in Autumn. See its portrait on my Spokane+ page. It's also featured in a NEW 2025 garden-themed calendar.

THE SIMPSON CONNECTION • When Royal was living at Cliff House, the cement factory below on the Spokane River spewed harmful dust fragment into the air, deteriorating the mansion's facade. Riblet sued, and the attorneys who won the first ever environmental case of its kind were associates James Winton and my dad, Joseph A. Simpson.

 

 

2019 • "THE LIFE AND TIMES OF PATSY CLARK, MINING PIONEER"

Author John H. Richards, the great-grandson of famous mining mogul Patsy Clark, gathered information for his definitive biography for over a decade. He published his eagerly anticipated book in 2019. He sorted through hundreds of family photos and prorprietary journals in addition to spending hours at the Spokane Public Library and The MAC, just to name a few resources.

The book included unique finds from the Clark family archives never previously shared, which made this a "must have" for any Inland NW history lover's library.

John and Mary are not only fine art clients of mine, they also became good friends over the years. My portrait, "AUTUMN AFTERNOON AT PATSY CLARK'S"hangs in their home. I was honored when he asked if he could include it in his book which featured only two color plates. My portrait was one of them. Find it on my Spokane+ page and in a NEW Kirtland Cutter 2025 calendar.

When I finished this portrait in 1997 (left) the mansion had served Spokane as the Francis Lester Restaurant, and ultimately, Patsy Clark's. Many remember these one-of-a-kind dining experiences fondly to this day.

When Patsy's closed, a group of attorneys bought it, embarking on an ambitious restoration. The second floor housed law offices and they offered the first floor to the public as a event center. After years of much work completed on the mansion, the first group of attorneys sold it to another law firm who opened there in 2020. The main floor is still available as an event center.

 

2017 • THE SPOKESMAN REVIEW'S NEWSPAPER'S "ART IN BLOOM" • ARTISTS, FLORAL DESIGNERS IN ART IN BLOOM HELP MOORE-TURNER GARDENS, CORBIN ART CENER"

THE MOORE-TURNER HERITAGE GARDENS • In the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section above, I shared details about this uniquely historic setting and the stewardship group supporting it. This newspaper article was written in support of that.

TWO BENEFITS • This non-profit group hosted two benefits annually during the priod when I volunteered in 2017 and 2018. The Spring's traditional English tea and Autumn's floral / artrxhibitt followed several years of fine quilt displays. With Art in Bloom, in addition to the exhibit, artists donated items to a raffle and the Corbin Arts Center also hosted booths for both participating and visiting artists.

Click on the 2017 The Spokesman Review Art in Bloom Article pdf to see more Art in Bloom images and to read Pat Munt's story about the that year's event ~ including the news of the sudden passing of Diane Zahner, an artist with the event for two years. This photo pictures me holding my 2017 event poster with Moore-Turner Heritage Garden's Lead Tour Docent Paula Whitcom and Gardens Historian Linda Yeomans.

Highlight ~ On that note, Linda is the "go to" gal if you are interested in having your home listed on the Spokane, Washington State, or National Historic Register of Historic Places.

2021'S "ART IN THE ATTIC" FUNDRAISER • Sadly, COVID challenges caused the tea and art / floral benefits to be cancelled twice, but in Autumn 2021, FMTG introduced a new benefit, "Art in the Attic." I donated framed canvas reproductions of "HARVEST FEST AT HUTTON SCHOOL" and "FLYING SOUTH OVER SPOKANE FALLS (MONROE STREET BRIDGE)" Both sold within the first hour.

 

 

2016 • CONTEMPLATE NEWSLETTER'S "SISTER RITA MAE: FURTHERING FSPA'S MISSION OF EDUCATIONS."

Published by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration headquartered in Wiscomsin, this article was featured in the December 2016 issue. Click on the "Contemplate" image here or on Contemplate pdf to read it. Sister Rita Mae Fischer was my much admired first grade teacher fom Spokane's Saint Augustine Grade School (now Cataldo School at Saint Augustine's). Until this May 2023, when Sister Rita Mae quitetly passed away unexpectedly at 94 in her sleep, we had been in touch frequently through letters and Christmas cards. She is pictured in the 1956 class photo (top of this page}, wearing her Franciscan habit as the sisters still did in the '50s and 60's when I was a young student. She was an inspiration and I miss her wisdom and kind encouragement greatly.

 

2013 • DODSON'S PROMOTIONAL POSTCARD AT CHRISTMASTIME

This festive promotional postcard with my portrait, "THE CRESCENT WINTOW AT CHRISTMAS" on it went to dozens of folks attending the Spokane Symphony during the 2013 Holiday Season.

Dodson's longtime owners Penn and Deborah Fix hosted Holiday and Winter-themed artwork at their fine Jewelry shop on Riverside Avenue in Spokane's Downtown District.

2013 and 2014 • Of the 10 originals they chose from my Spokane / Inland NW Collection, "VISTA HOUSE VIEW" and "CAVORTING AT CANNON HILL POND" sold to Pat and Kathleeen Dix. They later commissioned a portrait of their cabin on Hayden Lake's Sunset Beach near our old family place my brother Bob now owns. See it on my COMMISSION page. In 2014, Dodson's invited me back, featuring 13 works, including art of the Spokane County Courthouse, Christmas Eve at Saint Augustine's Church, and other Holiday works like the Crescent Window on the postcard.

DODSON'S • After three generations of proprietors and decades of doing business in the Inland NW, Dodson's closed its doors forever in 2018. Many still miss this beloved family business.

 

 

2013 • ENTERTAINMENT SPOKANE NEWSLETTER

ED CLARK'S "FIRST FRIDAY" OVERVIEW • In November 2013, the Arbor Crest Cellars Tasting Room at River Park Square mounted an exhibit of 35 of my Winter / Holiday paintings. The event began with a fun "Meet & Greet" on Friday evening.

At the time, Ed Clark was producing a weekly newsletter about "happenings" in Spokane called "Entertainment Spokane," (EntertainmentSpokane.com). His Octobr 30, 2013 issue featured a wonderful front page article about my appearance. Click on the image (left) or Entertainment Spokane pdf to read the article.

As Winter's Holiday Season was around the corner, this exhibit was similar to what I had created for Dodson's with prints of some of the same images plus with 25 additional works.

WINTER TASTING ROOM THEMES:

During this event, I unveiled my NEW painting, "SLEDDING ON THE SOUTH HILL (MANITO PARK)" (left) on the corner of 18th Avenue and Grand Boulevard. It featured family and friends with kiddos in a mid-1950s scene enjoying a crisp day aftter a fresh snowfall. The art brought back fond memories for many who came to that First Friday event.

 

 

 

2013 • SNJM WASHINGTON PARTNERS IN MISSION MAGAZINE

PICTORIAL & ARTICLE ON THE SISTERS 125TH CELEBRATION

The Fall 2013 issue of the "Partners in Mission" Holy Names sisters' magazine featured a two-page pictorial and article highlighting all the events I talked about above that took place over a late Summer weekend. Celebrating the sisters' arrival to Spokane and the Inland NW, a large loyal group of Alumni came from near and far to attend.

This pictorial included photos of the hallway walls of Spokane's Mugugawa Center (once Holy Names' Fort Wright College) decorated for the event. The "Past to Present" exhibit included photos and artifacts from many classes throughout the decades, a sumptuous luncheon followed by speeches, plus a live aution on Saturday. This was followed by a Mass Sunday morning and tours of nationally famous Sister Paula Mary Turnbull's art studio. The photo of me with my commemorative painting of the high school, "CELEBRATING SPRING AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" (left & above) was part of the overview article.

As I shared above, I reworked this fine art from the original completed earlier to complement this event honoring the sisters' arrival to the Inland NW 125 years prior to this celebration. In addition to the school, the art pictured students, graduating Seniors, and educators on the lawn in front with a streamer above enscribed with our old school song, "O, Holy Names, we sing thy praises . . ."

THE FOUR SEASONS OF HOLY NAMES (above) • I donated framed canvas reproductions of these for the sisters to hang in their retirement facility (years later they are still there). My dear friend and local watercolorist Jeannine Marx Fruci had just completed her own portrait of the Academy, and she gave them a framed print as well. What warm wonderful memories inspired us both. We both had cards of our Holy Names paintings on a table for guests and alumni to collect at the event.

All five donated images were displayed throughout the weekend celebration. In addtion, the art that both Jeannie and I donated to the live auction did very well and brought in much needed funds for both the Holy Names Music School (last vestage of the sisters' presence on what was once Fort Wright College campus) as well as funding for ongoing care of the retired sisters.

 

 

2013 • REDMOND REPORTER NEWSPAPER II (2nd Redmond Reporter News Feature)

THE "MEETING AT THE MARKET" ARTICLE • As note above, my painting ,"MEETING AT THE MARKET" took first place in the Redmond Saturday Market fine art competition. This colorful work (left) featured a border of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers with arts & crafts vendors and shoppers.

After winning the competiion, the market's board of directors invited me to design the promotional poster for the market's milestone 35th season. Hundreds of these were hung in Eastside King County communities like Bellevue, Kirkland, Medina, Sammamish, Woodvine, Issaquah and more. 35 Years was a big deal!

In June, I met with Redmond Reporter Staff Writer Mary Stephens Decker for an interview ~ our second in four years. We spent a couple hours at Redmond's Soul Food Bistro ~ the first hour catching up as the last couple of years which had brought lots of changes to both of our lives.

The second hour, I shared the story of how I became involved with the market several seasons before, as well as the many friends and clients I made ~ and much more. This interview included the story of the couple visiting from Scotland who wanted 250 Christmas cards (in three days!) of my art of "DECORATING THE BRIDGE ON #18 ON THE OLD COURSE" ~ art inspired by a trip to play British Open Courses with Doug and his pals, Brent Orrico and Ric (Bubba) Metzger in 2002. See it on the MORE PAINTINGS page.

Mary wrote a glowing full-page piece with my photo and the image of my poster (left). Click on Redmond Reporter II pdf or the poster (left) to read "Meeting at The Market • Local Artist Spotlight for Upcoming Saturday Market with Her Art on Promotional Poster."

 

 

2007 • 425 MAGAZINE HOLIDAY ISSUE

DECEMBER 2007 CHRISTMAS PICTORIAL OF LOCAL EASTSIDE ARTISTS' WORK • In 2007, I was invited to be featured with 11 other fine artists in the 425 Magazine's Holiday issue's colorful pictorial entitled the "12 Days of Christmas Cards."

This glossy magazine celebrated ever burgeoning Bellevue and other Eastside communities (east of Seattle and Lake Washington) in the 425 area code region. To read the article, meet the artists, and see the collection of Christmas-themed artwork, click on the image (left) or on 425 Magazine pdf.

"THE HAPPY HOLIDAY HOUSE" portrayed the Queen Anne Harmon House in the heart of the Snohomish Historic District. Read about it in the Snohomish Collection pdf.

A short 30-minute drive north of Redmond, this community is filled with restored Victorians, Foursqaures, Craftsmans, and bungalows built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This "getaway" destination includes B&Bs, cafes, and over a dozen beautifully stocked antique shops ~ especially during the Holidays.

As I've painted 27 Snohomish residences, many friends came my way through my association with the Snohomish Historical Society (SnohomishHistoricalSociety.org.) Over the years, I was invited to do several in-person "Meet & Greets" where I exhibited my Snohomish art in historic structures during their September and December Historic Home Tours. This was easy as Doug and I in lived nearby Sammamish during most of the 2000s.

 

 

2006 • REDMOND REPORTER NEWSPAPER I (1st Redmond Reporter News Feature)

REDMOND HISTORICAL SOCIETY • In 2006, Renee DuVal-Northern had just opened a cozy eatery in the Stone House Cottage built at the turn of the century to house the Redmond's early livery stable. Before Renee opened her cafe, the unique river-rock structure wore several hats including Carollyn Miglino's Rose Tree Cottage Gift Shop.

When Renee opened her cafe, the Redmond Reporter published a two-page pictorial about it. Renee shared my "Historic Stone House" portrait with staff writier Mary Stevens Decker, who phoned me for an interview. Click on Redmond Reporter pdf to read the article, "Redmond Spotlight ~ Artist Sees Beauty in Old Buildings."

As I had recently joined RHS as their art director and senior graphic designing, for a nominal fee, RHS had me help her outfit her cafe with photos of historic Redmond ~ giving her restaurant the vintage feel she wanted.

Highlight ~ Years later in 2010, Ryan Donaldson purchased the business from Renee. Seattle, WA's KING TV's Evening Magazine featured Chef Ryan several times. The Stone House Restaurant went on to become famous for his Northwest cuisine, local wines, and special vintage cocktails. Ryan built a very loyal, devoted clientele and kept my art of the historic cottage in his restaurant's entryway for years.

 

 

 

 

I'm passionate about giving back. It's the least I can do with all of the support I've received from friends, clients and generous patrons. In addition to these gifts of art, I also support many non-profit organizations financially.

WESTERN WASHINGTON • I was one of the Eastside Heritage Center founding members in Bellevue, WA. I also served eight years on the Redmond Historical Society board of drectors. As their art director, I created their newsletter, event signage, and graphics / historical banners for the 2013 Redmond 100th Birthday Celebration.

EASTERN WASHINGTON • When Doug and I returned to the Inland NW, I served serveral area non-profits. Currently, I'm busiest as the art director for Spokane Preservtion Advocates quarterly newsletter UPDATE (pdf shared above). It's rewarding and I love working with editor Dave Shockley. I've also been an active member of The MAC in several capacities since 1997.

DONATING ART DURING COVID • Normally, I give framed fine art prints (and once an original) of local settings to several Inland NW benefits and auctions. COVID stopped many of these events, but most have resumed their in-person fund-raising.

CHRISTMAS TREE ELEGANCE • A favorite cause of mine has always been the Spokane Symphony's Christmas Tree Elegance. 2024 will mark my 10th year of involvement with this worthy group. This year my work will be featured with one of two Elizabeth Raol's wonderful trees with my fine art yet TBD. Visit this page as the Holidays approach to see the theme and the pairing she creates.

THE FRIENDS OF MANITO • For the first time, instead of just donating financially, I rolled up my sleeves, grabbed my pruners, and gave generously of my time, often six hours per / week, to help the Friends of Manito (TheFriendsOfManito.org) prepare for their two Plant Sales. It was awonderful experience as the three women in charge, Judy, Gabi, and new addition Windy were enthusiastic leaders / educators with valuable tips for us volunteer gardeners. Our crew was fun to get to meet and work with, whether it was a first-year volunteer or one on the roster for 20+ years. The experience was good for my soul during my grieving process after losing Doug in September, and more recently, my brother Bill in May. "Friends"was a gift I gave myself. Highlight ~ Recently I joined others at their Autumn Reception at Manito's Japanese Gardens, an event presented by Executive Director Kelly Brown and the board. The speakers, refreshments, and board and volunteer guests all enjoyed this wonderful close to the Summer Season.

 

INLAND NORTHWEST CAUSES FOR FINE ART AUCTION DONATIONS

 

 

 

PITTYPAT STUDIO • A COZY PLACE TO WORK AND PLAY

A CHANGE THAT FILLED MY HEART • When Doug and I married in 2000, his wedding gift to me was my studio ~ a huge luxury after cramped quarters in my small Seatte Capitol Hil, first in our Manito Park Craftsman and then here at our Moran Prairie cottage. My studio was one of the first rooms to be set up after the move, and I've finished many paintings since we moved in 2020.

GALLERY CLOSING • 2020 to 2022 brought changes. For reasons which included our 2020 move, COVID, and health challenges trying to give my Doug more time, it was time to close my gallery. I'm focusing on a few in-person events and more on creating in my studio these days.

2023 IN-PERSON EVENTS • In December 2023, I was blessed to see so many clients and friends at my "Meet & Greet" at the Manito C.C. event.

THIS YEAR'S "MEET & GREETS" • This year, I've appeared at Summer's Manito Park (June) and Arbor Crest (August) art fests so far, with Hayden Lake's December two-day luncheon and Marketplace pencilled in.

UNVEILING NEW FINE ART ~ Frequently when I finish new paintings, you'll find them on my Facebook page. Facebook images are often part of the seasonal collection, dovetailing with this website. Find more on my WHAT'S NEW and ART VENUES pages.

V.I.P. MALING LIST ~ To be added to my V.I.P. (Very Important Patron), please phone or text me at 206.406.1409 and share your contact information. This year has definitely been a very tough one, but as I gradally find more balance moving forward, look for notifications to begin again.

 

 

THE HAPPIEST DAYS . . .

APRIL 15TH, 2000 • ECHO FALLS CC, MONROE, WA ~ My Dad's best friend Mike Doohan walked me down the aisle (Dad passed 10+ years prior), "Course in Miracles" Robbie Fawnstock officiated, and we had 250+ with us, more than we could have imagined! Doug's mother Kay, brother Tom, pal Ric Metzger, and sons Matt and Kevin were there for him. My Sally Mom, sisters Marilee, Peggy, sister-in-law Jan, and best friend Robin Westbrook were in my party. It was a beautiful day of dreams come true for us both.

Geinius pal sax musician Darren Motamedy played Pachal Belle's Canon and "When a Man Loves a Woman" at the wedding ~ and others for hours at our reception with the dance floor rarely empty! Holy Names pal Kathy and her husband Budd Gould gave us a private room for our "after party" for close friends and family at their Caralon Point Anthony's. More memories, a romantic honeymoon night, and the fun group breakfast in the morning before folks took off for homes. What a wonderful way to begin our "wonderful life."

"I DO . . . IN SICKNESS AND IN HEALTH . . . Who knew how quick the 25 years would go by, and how final Doug's passing would be. It was probably the most difficult lesson the grieving process has shared. But wasn't I blessed to have had him for so long with every wonderul moment. I'm happy he is heaven with those who love him and no longer in pain here. But we miss him . . . he was really someone special to so many.

"ANGELS EVERYWHERE ON EARTH" ~ Some show up in the form of kind friends on the phone or at the door. Sometimes the angels are with me at church. Often they're in nature when I'm out for walk, helping me get through the bad days, reminding me to be grateful for the good ones. And every now and then, Doug is here, as there are little miracles with his fingers all over them. He's just here in a different way.

"SOMETIMES MIRACLES ARE SIMPLY GOOD PEOPLE WITH KIND HEARTS."

 

 

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