Betsy Roberts - The Artist
I was born and raised in Montana, moved to San Diego, California in 1998 to work for a great bread company. Never in my life did I dream of doing an art form. I had never heard of gourd until I went to Portland, Oregon to learn to paint with my “favorite uncle” Bob Burbank in July of 2002. I wanted a hobby to occupy my then spare time and thought painting sounded fun. Well, it was way to challenging for me, one who does not like to think “in the box” or follow instructions exactly. I completed my project that day with him and asked for something else to paint, and he handed me my first gourd. It was LOVE at first sight and feel. The texture in my hand was the most unbelievable experience, as wood was the next medium I really wanted to learn. However, with the gourd in my hand, I knew I had found my passion.
Gourds touch my soul and open up a creative spirit that was waiting to be released. I love the freedom the gourd provides by each one being so unique and having a life of its own. Many times I think I know what will be best on the gourd and then “it” changes my mind as we start to work together to completion.
I have made several marvelous friends and mentors in gourding: Marla Helton, Bonnie Gibson, Dar Beck and Leigh Adams. Each one has given me more encouragement and help than I could ever imagine. I thank them for all the continued help and support they provide me.
I entered two gourds into the California Gourd Society competition at Welburn Festival and won 2nd and 3rd place ribbons. I have a difficult time keeping up with commission orders, therefore have not had time to enter into the competition on a regular basis .
I have taught and I am teaching classes at several Gourd Festivals: Zittels, Wuertz, Leiser and the Georgia Gourd Socieity festival. I also have taught at The Inner City Gourd Patch in LA, Santa Anna Zoo Gathering, the Orange County Gourd Patch and Jasmin Gallery in La Jolla, Ca. I also teach many private classes. I have been very well received as my style is unique and my use of mediums is different than other gourd artists.
A couple of quotes from my classes:
Dar Beck wrote :
“Betsy is Gourd Art Extraordinaire! She loves the use of all colors, textures, fibers and quality hand dyed silk ribbons, feathers and other fine materials to create one of a kind art pieces. Everyone is encouraged to think/create “out of the box” and to let their spirit and soul shine through each piece created.”
Leigh Adams wrote:
“Betsy Roberts is known for her brave approach to color and form. The dancing coils of joyous color and texture that grace her gourds contain bits and pieces of finery, flash and funk! A scattering of Mardi Gras elegance contrasting with well secured and stable coiling points up the whimsical cut and gracious curves of her delectable gourds. Look for “memory prompts”, is that a bit of a favorite prom dress’s trim?.a twirl of a favored old earring?…a smattering of rattail cord? While you may never be able to tell for certain, the “scrapbook” approach to gourd embellishment is a one of a kind technique that you will enjoy immensely, both as a viewer and a participant. Do yourself a favor and play with Betsy and her distinguished technique!”
I hope this tells you a little about me and you will consider to spend some time in my classes to have a fun, creative, and a unique experience. Please contact me online at gourdprincessb@yahoo.com with any questions.
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