A FEW WORDS ABOUT DOUG . . .

25TH SILVER ANNIVERSARY • It's been nearly two years since my sweet Doug passed. Anyone who has lost someone they loved deeply will tell you it's tough. The only thing you can count on is that change will be a "constant." Regardless, I'm taking baby steps forward as I know that's what Doug would want. Blessedly, sometimes I feel him near, a good thing, as in April we celebrated our 25th Silver Anniversary. He was everything my hero ~ as the docs gave him 6 months to live and he carved out another 6 years for us. I'm so grateful to Doctors Tony Conley, Timothy Yap (Houston's MD Anderson) and Ray Lance (Spokane Urology) for doing everything possible to help him stay on the planet as long as he did. Doug fought the good fight with everything he had and never gave up. Thank you, sweetheart!

A REGULAR GUY • But, in between the challenges, we DID share a wonderful life, both before and after his diagnosis. We created memories. We had fun! Even though there were huge hurdles, Doug lived life like these were bumps in his road with no complaints, always sharing his grin and engaging sense of humor. So many loved him like crazy and treated him as though he wasn't sick at all. This made living for him so much sweeter.

A BIG INSPIRATION • He inspired much of my friendly heart-warming artwork, encouraging me always, and being proud of me. He forgave often, gave folks the benefit of the doubt, and reminded me that we never know what is going on for someone else. He embraced light-heartedness, cherished memories, and never took life for granted. His friends, kids and grandkids were everything to him. "Don't take life too seriously. It's all good," he'd say. Most importantly, he taught me what REAL love is. I'm so grateful. How lucky was I?

 

 

 

WELCOME TO MY LIFE STORY PAGE AND 50 YEARS OF AMERICANA FINE ART!

50 YEARS OF SPRING INTO SUMMER!

2025 MARKS 50 YEARS SINCE MY FIRST FINE ART EXHIBIT! • 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 on May 2023 at 94 years. Her words still ring 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.

My five decades as a fine artist, art director and graphic designer, several events and career choices have shaped me as a fine Americana artist. It's been my signature style, although my brother Bob has a few early contemporary efforts on his walls. When I visit, It's fun to see where the years have taken me. As much as he liked these, I'm happy I chose the path I did. Below I've shared some milestones.

 

 

 

 

LIFELONG INSPIRATIONS

SISTER RITA MAE FISCHER • As mentioned above, my first grade teacher always 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 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 Cataldo Grade School and other parochial schools once staffed by the Franciscans filled Saint Augustine's Church with a Mass and 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, newsletters 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 see her, too. A few years ago, Maggie brought some "butterfly" books I 'd 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 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 into 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 shiny 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 does to this day at 98 years. I didn't know then exactly what my artistic niche would be, but these classes solidify my dream for a career in art and design.

In Summer 2013, the 125th Anniversary Celebration of the arrival of Holy Names Sister to the Inland NWn 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 shared 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 connected. 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" (left) 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' Primitive Winter-themed paintings (still in my library). Equally important, I discovered the art of Charles Wysocki when housemate Dawn Tanneburg tacked an "Americana Calendar" to her door. I fell in love with the work of both these artists, especially with Wysocki's attention to detail. Seeds of the "Americana" style planted . . .

MY AMERICANA DREAM • Originally from Detroit, most of Wysock'si art celebrated imaginary settings, some inspired by New England. "Why not paint real subjects?" I asked myself as the Pacific Northwest was filled with inspiring places begging to be painted. Our family's brick Dutch Colonial was my favorite home growing up, (also 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 detail to each piece.

EARLY WESTERN WASHINGTON EXHIBITS • Learn more about my appearances in several Kirkland, WA galleries in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More below.

 

MY SIGNATURE AND MORE • I created my 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, of course) everywhere to capture subjects that inspired. A trip to Port Townsend in the late '70s with my sis 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 thinking stopped when Gorbachev lost power.

FRIENDS & MY ARTWORK • In Tashkent (no longer part of the Soviet Union), I befriended three amazing women ~ a professor, a medical student and an art gallery curator. We corresponded after our trip until Russia rejected Perestroika and tighted restrictions there. Meeting the curator opened a door for me, as with help from Seattle's Mayor Royer's Russian-born wife Tatiana, she arranged for two of my works honoring our experience to be hung in the National Art Gallery of Tashkent.

One pictured the October 7th Revolution parade art (left) and the other,"THE CHILDREN OF TASHKENT" was inspired by by an invitation by my professor friend for several of us to visit a grade school. Remarkably, the students read several poems in flawless English. At dinner that night, we wondered how many in the U.S.A. would have been able to speak Russian as fluently as these 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 '80s as the cities' personalities were similar. Tashkent was miles from Moscow's government seat and even though it was still part of the Soviet Union then, Uzbekistan was much more open. Also, pre-Microsoft Seattle's biggest industry was Boeing and Tashkent was home to Aeroflat.

MOSCOW & ST. PETERSBURG • Thanks to Perestroika, our Intourist guides led us though Moscow's gilded onion-domed government seat 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 bombed them to bits along with and other historic structures We also visited Tolstoy's apartment ("War & Peace," Anna Karenina," etc.). Once in a lifetime experiences!

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

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

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

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 early days!

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

 

 

BROWN'ES ADDITION'S 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) plus support from Spokane's Historic Preservation Officer Patricia Prince made sure I was invited to exhibit at the first ArtFest. Patricia was also convinced I'd be a perfect fit for The MAC's Gift Sho and made that happen! At that early ArtFest, I presented 18 recently completed paintings of Coeur d'Alene park and many famous historic neighborhood residences like Patsy Clark's.

Browne's Addition with its "gingerbread"-style gazebo in Coeur d'Alene Park was named for the mines that brought early Spokane its wealth and first neighborhood. Several historic homes there were designed by renowned architect, Kirtland K. Cutter for Spokane's affluent citizens who made their money logging and mining the Inland NW. Cutter homes included the Walkefield House, the Patrick Clark Mansion, the Finch House and The MAC's restored Campbell House. My 1997 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 (INLAND NW) 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 returning servicemen from World War II. Currently there is a movement in the neighborhood to restore many of these back to single-family dwellings, a blessing for this revered historic area.

SPECIAL EDITION CALENDAR • Also at that early ArtFest, my 1997 "Paciic NW Memories Calendar" did a beautiful job of introducing my Americana art to Spokane and 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 passed away. Remarkably, Kirtland Cutter's sample book was found in the attic's servants' quarters that took up much of the third floor, a miraculous help to the these important efforts.

THE MUSEUM STORE • I've offered art cards of Spokane / Inland NW plus Campbell House scenes at the shop since 1997. In 2021, I created another calendar honoring the Campbell House that highliighted three NEW paintings of the children's guest room with teddy bears (the bears appeared about the time the Campbells moved into their home), the men's cardroom, and a third of the back yard's garden gazebo. Folks loved this calendar and dozens sold. In 2022, I also completed three NEW Browne's Addition works, the pink apartment house on Pacific Avenue, the 1899 B&B, and Browne's Boomtown Bistro which COVID closed. When open, its walls were hung with my art.

125 YEARS AT COEUR D'ALENE PARK • In the early 2000's, restoration of the Browne's Addition park's band pavilion was completed. I gave the park stewardship group permission to use my image of "THE PAVILION AT CDA 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 AMERICANA ORIGINALS AT WASHINGTON'S LANDMARK CAPITOL BUILDING

In 1997, just as Doug and I began dating, I was honored by Lt. Governor Brad and Mrs. Owen, enthusiastic advodates of Washington State's diverse fine artists. As mentioned above, Patricia M. Prince stopped by my first ArtFest booth to say "Hii" and share that she had recommended my work to the Owens. She 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 to 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 positive 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 HOLIDAYS AT THE LEGISLATIVE BUILDING" (left) art of the majestic State Capitol building. When I fiished it, Governor Gary Locke was serving his second term and I gave both him and Lt. Governor Brad Owen framed prints of this Holiday scene.

"Children at Play" was just one of four exhibits here that featured works from my SPOKANE and PUGET SOUND collection web pages during the 1990s and 2000s. Heading up a committee of committed volunteers, what a gift this couple was working so hard to promote Washington State artists. The halls of the Legislative Building were a spectacular backdrop for us all.

Lt. Governor Brad Owen retired after a long, generous career of public service. Everyone involved with the Owens and their creative team are still very grateful for the opportunities we received.

 

 

 

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 HNA Principal Sister Eileen Rose, brought unexpected gifts my way. It's been many decades since I graduated from Holy Names Academy, but the happy memories of school days, class reunions, and other celebrations are still fresh.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! • JACK & DAN'S • Thursday, Aug. 28th in the G.U. District • This year, our class is gathering for a Milestone Birthday Party!!

A LITTLE HISTORY • When Gonzaga Prep began accepting women students, Holy Names Academy and Marycliff (the 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 developer Harry (Hank) A. Green created an upscale retirement center from the structure, keeping many 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 and reopening it as condominiums. 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 its 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 who was living at Spokane's Fort Wright Convent near the Spokane River. I heard from Communications Coordinator Becky Sullivan and Director of Development Sister Celine Steinberger, asking to use my portrait of the school (left) in a publication devoted to creative alumni. My HNA portrait 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 Pacific NW region. These four pieces still hang on the walls of their Spokane regional office on the South Hill which is just two blocks from my home here on Moran Prairie.

Highlight • John Stockton, retired Utah Jazz basketball star, grew up across Superior Street from HNA. His Ryan son currently heads up Spokane's nationally famous "HOOPFEST" annual basketball event.

 

 

OVERVIEW OF THE FOUR HOLY NAMES PAINTINGS

• SPRING • "CELEBRATING SPRING AT HOLY NAMES ACADEMY" (Revised, 2013) • This piece was a reworking of the original 1997 portrait featured on the newsletter cover (above left), revised to commemorate the milestone celebration. I donated a framed enlargement to the event's live auction.

• SUMMERl • "LITTLE GROTTO IN THE WOODS" (2004) • This piece pictured the rustic shelter created by volunteers to house the statue of HNA's Superior campus Blessed Mother on what was once the Fort Wright Convent. Sister Eilieen Rose and Faher Lehman, S.J. are in this scene. Sadly, both these beloved, inspiring souls are watching us from Heaven. Highlight • After Scot Simpson's baptism, Faher Lehman blessed Doug and my marriage.

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

• WINTER • "SNOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES" • 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 • I'm SO grateful 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 hundreds of prayers for patience, perseverance, and complete recovery. Often these made all the difference. Sadly, Sr. Celene, our "angel on earth," passed away suddenly on Christmas Day, 2017. We and many others who remember her miss her so much. NOTE • Sr. Celine Steinberger is pictured below in the Art Directing, Unveilings, Exhibits, Awards and More section at the unveiling of the "SHOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES" 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. Sister Celine decided to try 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?

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

For more information about the retirement community 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.

 

 

 

NOTE • COMING SOON! LOCAL SETTING FINE AMERICANA ART EXHIBIT IN AUTUMN • Look for details soon on my 60+ -piece exhibit coming soon to the South Hill's Rockwood Retirement Center near Lincoln Heights.

 

NOTE • MOST RECENT ACCOMPLISHENTS FIRST

2011-TO PRESENT • FINE ART PAINTING / POSTER DESIGN / FUNDRAISER • THE FRIENDS OF MANITO

A STEP IN A DIFFERENT DIRECTION • When I lost my sweetheart Doug in Septemberr 2023, some of the friends we'd met through Doug's golf connections slowly drifted away as well. Part of this was because as Doug was in heaven, we were no longer a coouple. I found I needed to find a way to build and nuture relationships that weren't necesarily dependent on me being part of a couple.

THE FRIENDS OF MANITO • As I mentioned on my WELCOME page, my sis Peggy and Nancy Young, a wonderful volunteer I met at the Hospice House during Doug's last days there, suggested I become an active involved member of The Friends of Manito (TheFriendsOfManito.org) . Remarkably, Nancy's husband Bob was president of TFM board. I signed up in March, just 6 months after Doug passed.

At first, I felt like a fish out of water, but began engaging with a small team of people I was frequently was paired with. There was a lot to learn. I also signed up to work the June 2024 Plant Sale. It amazed me how crazy hard everyone worked to sell all the plants we'd carefully groomed, divided, re-potted and more. We alll worked as though the beloved park depended on it ~ which of course it did! Even though my schedule conflicted with the second sale, when Bob announced TFM made $70,000 that would cover repairs to the failing 1953 Davenport Fountain and the Conservatory, it was so gratifying.

TFM OPPORTUNITIES FOR DONATING • Most volunteers knew I was a recent widow and treated me very kindly. TFM felt safe, and my time there brought peace and joy. At the 2024 Plant Sale, in between selling lavendar plants, I shot photos of volunteers and shoppers, inspiring my art of the sale (on my WELCOME page). To thank fellow volunteers, I donated a large framed print for our meeting room and printed dozens of cards for everyone who wanted one. What an honor it was when Spokane Parks & Rec approved installation of my posters (left) in the park's five kiosks promoting the sales. Bob also asked me for a POLINATOR Newsletter article sharing memories of living near the park as a child plus later ones in our Craftsman by the pond. Highlight • For 2025's June sale, TFM board invited me to share my cards, prints, and puzzles in their booth (photo below). I raised $700+ in a few short hours and donated 100% of it to The Friend of Manito. I'm SO grateful for my experiences with this group!

 

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

A BETTER "BEST FOOT FORWARD" • In December 2016, SPA's President Bridget Piper and I discussed polishing some of the communication materials SPA used for educatng members about goals and projects to preserve historic Inland NW settings. We tossed around ideas, but agreed that over time, the need for preservation had grown, expenses were greater, and grant requests more substantial. Goals included growing SPA and assuring issues got the attention needed to help keep developers from destroying one-of-a-kind structures. Highlight • This is particularly urgent now as President Trump is committed to stopping Federal funding assistance for preservation projects.

UPDATE • My primary project was completely 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 a 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 a breeze 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 read, navigate, and (most importantly) remember the content shared.

This Summer's UPDATE (left) promoted the quarterly social, a fun backyard picnic at the F. Knight bungalow on 14th Ave. The owner pulled out all the stops to make sure eveyone enjoyed a great evening, including tours of her remarkable home. The only downside was Historic Preservation Officer Megan Duvall's explanation of President Trump's plans to stop funding for local preservation projects. She also shared how to contact our congressmen about what this would mean to our area. Please visit SpokanePreservation.org). To read the current UPDATE, click on the image (left).

 

 

2017-2019 • ART DIRECTOR • THE 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 untimely 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 after the storm, the Corbin Art Center Director at 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 garden efforts 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 on the board and serve as 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 fund-raisers, May's Mother's Day Tea and September's Art in Bloom. After just two years, I retired due to Doug's rare cancer diagnosis. A very hopeful board is working hard on future projects and fund-raising 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 my schedule allowed. Browne's Addition has always had a special place in my heart as one of my first apartments was in Brunot Hall, once the Episcopal School for Girls where Helen Campbell had been educated. See my art of it in the Browne's Addition Collection pdf.

Projects included five years of creating posters and program covers for Coeur d'Alene Park's Summer Concert Series. Last 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 with apple cider and pumpkin carols several evenings during Halloween week at E.J. Roberts' Secret Garden. 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 and the web.

"ART FOR THE PARK" • In 2014,"Friends" presented improvement plans to Spokane's Parks and Rec to bring it more in-line with the 1890s vision of the Olmsted Bros. 2016 was the park's 125th birthday so a benefit dinner was held in Autumn 2015 at Patsy Clark's where Bob Scarfo's Master Plan and my painting of the park were unveiled. See "Vintage View of Coeur d'Alene Park" in the Inland NW Parks and Gardens Collection pdf. "Art for the Park" brought attention to CDA Park with an event for which I designed all the materials promoting street intersection mural artists, kid's activities, and artists' booths.

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

 

 

2012 UNVEILING • MY INITIAL FIRST FRIDAY SPOKANE ART WALK • E.J. ROBERTS' MANSION EVENT CENTER

2012 UNVEILING, E.J. ROBERTS' FIRST FRIDAY • In 2012, a year after Doug and I moved back from Western Washington, I unveiled my painting "SNOW CHAPEL AT HOLY NAMES (pictured with other HNA art above) at Mary Moltke's E.J. the Loewenberg-Roberts' Mansion's First Friday.

Many HNA alums attended this event, including Molly Roberts Hannan, E.J.'s great-granddaugher (left). Several Holy Names Sisters came too, including Sr. Celine Steinberger and Sr. Paula Mary Turnbull. NOTE • This internationally famous acclaimed 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 with the nationally sponsored "Candlelight Sumner Avenue Tour of Historic Homes" on the brow of the South Hill that Winter. Sally Mom and I attended this amazing tour..

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.

 

 

NOTE • MOST RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS FIRST (With Occasional One-Day / Weekend Art Events in Spokane)

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

"THE MARKET" • This downtown Redmond al fresco venue took place on Saturdays from late May through the end of October. Across Lake Washington from Seattle, it sat on a grassy area dotted with shade-giving Ponderosa pines during hot Summer months.

Although I retired as an active member of it when Doug and I returned to Spokane in late 2011, my swan song was winning First Place with my "MEETING AT THE MARKETt" painting for the best image capturing the "market experience." Filled with vendors, shoppers, families and their pets enjoying the setting, folks just loved this scene.

RSM also 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 communities that season. 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 still thriving Western Washington venue (second only to Seattle's Pike Place Public Market), visit their website at RedmondSaturdayMarket.org.

 

 

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

ART DIRECTING & EXHIBITING AT THE 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 All-City art event. It took six months of planning, promoting and organizing to bring this 33-artist-driven co-op to fruition. In addition to the many logistical challenges necessary to make this happen, as art director, I handled all the graphic design and production for it, including:

Sammamish and its Arts Commision were generous with their apprecation of the many months of organizational efforts completed by me and my co-chair. They shared that attendance for event was nearly twice what it had been the previous year!

 

 

2008 EXHIBIT • KIRKLAND ARTS CENTER MEMBERS' EVENT

EXHIBITING MY WORK IN KIRKLAND, WA • August 2008, my Americana neighborhood-style painting, "SPRINGTIME COMES TO SIMPSON STREET" was chosen to be included 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 finished in January 2023 when I added Doug and my current Moran Prairie cottage. Visit my COMMISSION web page to follow the 15-year process of creating this fun very personal piece.

SIX HOMES AND MORE • Five of six homes pictured in the art were from Spokane, with the Sammamish Doug had when we began dating. The top half shares the three houses where I grew up during from the '50s to t '60s. The lower half showed the three homes where Doug and I shared our 25 years together.

ALL THE OTHER DETAILS • Not only were there residences, but around each, I added details like pets, bicycles and vehicles, including the red VW bus I used for my driver's license test. I grouped family by each house, including my Simpson grandparents, cousin Jim Flemister who lived with us during high school / college dates, parents, siblings, spouses, kids and grandkids. Stepkids Matt, Kevin and Leah shared that no more kiddos were planned, so it seemed the right time to complete the art once and for all in 2023! Highlight • The Members Exhibit was a mix of styles from dozens of artists ~ so much FUN each year!

 

 

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

A SECOND AWARD INVOLVING 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.

 

 

1990-2007 EXHIBITS • BOTHELL'S ARTISTREE GALLERY • COUNTRY VILLAGE

ONGOING EXHBIT NORTH OF SEATTLE • For 10+ year, my Americana fine art was displayed at the Artistree at Country Village. Once a farm in Bothell, its outbuildings were converted into Country Village. Bob James and daughters Robin and Wendy invited me to join their group of artists.

ARTISTREE ARTISTS • I was one of several exhibiting there for over a decade. I showcased my paintings of Roche Harbor, Port Townsend, Snohomish, Seattle, Tacoma, King County's Eastside, the Oregon Coast and many other Pacific NW locations with frequently revolving local groupings.

BOB AND ROBIN JAMES, TWO CREATIVE GENIUSES • When I worked in the creative studios in the downtown Bon Marche flagship sore, Bob worked across the hall in the Store Planning section. 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 Holiday Decor was "his baby" until the chain of 40 departments stores was absorbed by Macy's in the mid-1980s.

Bob's equally famous daughter Robin was a published children's author / illustrator for the "Serendipity" series. Very popular, some of thes are some still available at vintage book stores.

A SPECIAL EXHIBIT • In 1999, the Artistree presented "An Evening of Americana Art" featuring my and Sonny Salsbury's work. My style was very detailed like Charles Wysocki's and Sonny's echoed the looser feel of Grandma Moses' primatives. Both were well received. Highlight • Years later in February 2023 when Doug and I were in San Diego for niece Steph Simpson and Ryan Gawyne's wedding, we visited Hotel Del Coronado's (their honeymoom destination) gift shop. I found a colorful portrait of the resort that looked like Sonny's work. Amazingly, 25 years later it was! When the three (yes, a baby!) came to stay with me last Thanksgiving, I gave them Sonny's art for Christmas.

HOLIDAYS AT THE VILLAGE • Country Village and The Artistree came alive during the Holidays with carolers, decorations and open houses. The gallery requested Holiday-themed art in keeping with the season. Kicking off Christmas was Santa in his sleigh flying down into the plaza!!

Sadly for all of us who enjoyed a presence at Country Village, a developer made its owner an offer he couldn't refuse, and the quaint collection of shops, galleries, cafes and more closed forever. The setting is now a handsome upscale nighborhood, but many still fondly remember and miss this charming destination.

 

 

1975-1985 • ONGOING EXHIBIT • BELLEVUE ART GALLERY, BELLEVUE, WA • AND OTHER SETTINGS

10-YEAR ONGOING EXHBIT, BELLEVUE, WA • As mentioned near the top of this page in the School Days + Early Career & Highlights section, in 1975, my Americana originals began their 10-year home at The Bellevue Art Museum by Bellvue Square. As I also shared, Charles Wysock and Grandma Moses were making their signature Americana style with it's charm and vivid colors more famous each year. The two Bellevue Galleyr owners were delighted when they discovered my work, inviting me to exhibit my small collection. Highlight • Several pieces sold during the decade. "227 WEST 25TH" was the first Americana painting that found its place on one of their galery wals 50 years ago.

Created with a very "Primitive" feel, it featured the beloved beautiful Dutch Colonial near Manito Park on 25th Avenue where I loved growing up. To this day, I remember its beautiful Gumwood crown moldiing, built-in bookcases, woodwork, multi-paned windows, and charming English feel. Sally Mom papered the walls with cabbage roses and linen stripes, filling it with glistening mahogany furniture. Some of these pieces are in my Moran Priairie cottage today. Highlight • I've since painted this home five more times.

It also pictured our ever-growing family (soon to be eight) and menagerie of pets. NOTE • Only youngest brother Bob, (there's 15 years between us), wasn't part of this group as he was born after we moved to a Mid-Century Modern (Sally Mom's Dream House) in the Valley's suburbs in 1962.

AFTER BELLEVUE • After my Bellevuel experience, my work was hung in a small Kirkland, WA Gallery that featured local artists at First Friday Art Walks. At the same time, themed Everett Fire Department art of structures and settings was also exhibited in Everettt for several years.

ENTER MY PRINCE, DOUG • His enthusiastic, generous support throughout our 25 years together was genuine. He helped me from the beginning in Western WA and then in Eastern WA for another 15 years. Crushingly, my sweetheart lost his 6-year battle with cancer in 2023. I still miss him so. Thank you so much, Doug for being there for me so completely those 25 of 50 art years!

 

 

 

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

When I lost my Dougie in September 2023, my life changed in dozens ot ways. For months, personal "Meet & Greests" and art festivals I'd done for decades were simply impossible. As I slowly but surely took baby steps back towards a little more balance, I've gradually added a few of these back on my calendar. Here is a list of dear friends who'ved generously helped me • including my most ardent supporter, Doug. Thank you so much to each and every one of you.

 

 

 

PRESS DURING THE LAST NEARLY 20 YEARS • MOST RECENT FIRST

2024 DECEMBER • SPA UPDATE NEWSLETTER • AN HONOR FROM SPA'S EDITOR, DAVE SHOCKLEY, ART OF MARY'S PLACE BY PROVIDENCE

In the December 2024 SPA UPDATE, Executive Coordinator Dave Shockly invited me to use my art of "PEONIES AT MARY'S PLACE BY PROVIDENCE" to highlight an article about a hasty demolition of the "Mary's Place" mansion by Providence Medical Center. This unfortunate result spawned an ordinance ensuring that preventative meaures are in place so that something like this can never happen again.

BACKGROUND • It was remarkable as it sat in the shadow of the medical center for years. As the medical center grew, Providence Sr. Mary Claver visited Mary, making an offer to buy her home. An agreement was reached, but when the transaction was about to take place, the nun asked for a larger price reduction. Ourtaged, Mary Gianetsas called off the deal, promising a sale would never take place. Further offers not only got "No's," but she began enlarging her home to the chagrin of the hospital which bagan building around it. When she died, Mary left the house to her daughter who she knew would keep it intact, but when she passed, the son lost no time in having it demolished.

I learned of this story and the planned demolition from the hospital's gift shop manager when Doug was at Providence for a lengthy procedure. During that time, I visited the property and took enough photos to start this portriat. I finished it just one month after losing Doug • picturing him, Sally Mom and me in this special homage art to unfortunate things that should never have happened.

 

 

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

ARBOR CREST • My artwork on this poster, "THE CLIFF HOUSE AT ARBOR CREST " pictured the beautiful Cliff House in Spring. My talented friend, Robin Fontaine (Crispy Communications) designed posters for AC 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 painting on the poster (left) Robin used two others, "KRIS KRINGLE COMES TO THE CLIFF HOUSE" 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 still wanted to use my images to promote future events.

ROYAL RIBLET • There are different stories about him, but this seems to be most authentic. In 1924, he had his Florentine mansion built for cliff's view. A mechanical genius, it was filled with inventions like mechanized garage doors and falls that recycled water back up to the top of them. His famous chair-lift freed skiiers everywhere from using T-Bars or climbing back up the slopes. He was inspired by a visit to a mine where he watched ore buckets go up and down a belt from the entrance to freight cars below. Voile!

FOURTH ARBOR CREST ART • In 2022, I worked with Marcia Mielke (she and Harry owned the Cliff House Estate for decades) on my Fall-themed gatehouse art. My NEW "AUTUMN BRILLIANCE AT ARBOR CREST" was in my 2025 garden-theme calendar and the "Four Seasons of Arbor Crest" puzzle.

SIMPSON CONNECTION • When Royal lived at Cliff House, the cement factory below on the Spokane River spewed harmful dust fragment into the air, deteriorating the mansion's facade. He sued, and the attorneys who won this first environmental case were 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 was serving Spokane as the Francis Lester Restaurant, and then as simply Patsy Clark's. Many still fondly remember dining here.

When Patsy Clark's closed, a group of attorneys purchased it, embarking on an ambitious restoration. The second floor became law offices and they offered the first floor as a event center. After years of work on the historic mansion, the first group of attorneys sold it to another law firm who opened offices there in 2020, keeping the main floor as an event center.

 

 

2017 SEPTEMBER • THE SPOKESMAN REVIEW'S "ART IN BLOOM" ARTICLE: ARTISTS, FLORAL DESIGNERS IN ART IN BLOOM HELP MOORE-TURNER GARDENS AND 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 period when I volunteered in 2017 and 2018. The Spring's traditional English tea and Autumn's floral / art exhibitt 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 that year's event • including the news of the sudden passing of Diane Zahner, an artist with the event for two years. The photo (left) 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 Spring tea and Autumn art / floral benefits to be cancelled two years in a row, but in Autumn 2021, FMTG introduced a new event, "Art in the Attic." I donated framed art of "HARVEST FEST AT HUTTON SCHOOL" and "FLYING SOUTHOVER SPOKANE FALLS (MONROE STREET BRIDGE") to this new benefit. Both pieces sold within the first hour.

 

 

 

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

Published by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration headquartered in Wisconsin, this article was featured in the December 2016 issue. Click on the "Contemplate" image (left) 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 May 2023, when Sister Rita Mae quitetly passed away unexpectedly at age 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 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 DECEMBER • DODSON'S PROMOTIONAL POSTCARD AT CHRISTMASTIME

This promotional postcard with my portrait, "THE CRESCENT AT CHRISTMASTIME" was handed out to dozens attending the Spokane Symphony concert during the 2013 Holiday Season.

For years, Dodson's longtime owners Penn and Deborah Fix hosted Holiday and Winter-themed artwork at their fine Jewelry store 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 ON CANNON HILL" 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 iconic family business.

 

 

 

2013 NOVEMBER • 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 First 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 ARBOR CREST TASTING ROOM THEMES • "SPOKANE MAGICAL MEMORIES" COLLECTION

I unveiled my NEW painting, "SLEDDING ON THE SOUTH HILL AT MANITO" (left) picturing the coasting hill on the corner of 18th Avenue and Grand Blvd. This artwork featured families and friends in a mid-1950s scene enjoying the day after a fresh snowfall. The art brought back fond memories for many who attended that First Friday event.

 

 

 

2013 AUTUMN • 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 far and near 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 auction 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 prints of these for the sisters to hang in their retirement facility (still there). Good friend and local watercolorist Jeannine Marx Fruci had just finished her art of the Academy, and she gave them a framed print as well. What wonderful memories inspired us! We both had cards of our art available as mementos for guests and alumni who attended this event.

All five donated images were displayed throughout the weekend celebration. In addition, the art that both Jeannie and I donated to the live auction did well and brought in much needed funds for both the Holy Names Music School which was the last vestage of the sisters' presence on what was once Fort Wright College campus. These funds also went to care for retired aging sisters, some who live at a facility near me.

 

 

 

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

THE REDMOND SATURDAY MARKET ARTICLE • As noted above, my painting, "MEETING AT THE MARKE" won First Placein the Redmond Saturday Market fine art competition. This colorful art (left) featured a border of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers picturing 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, Sammamish, Woodinville, Issaquah and more. 35 Years was a milestone!

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 on 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'd made. This interview included the story of the couple visiting from Scotland who wanted 250 Christmas cards (in three days!) with my art of "DECORATING THE BRIDGE AT THE OLD COURSE" on their covers, 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 Local Artist Spotlight for Upcoming Saturday Market with Her Art on Promotional Poster."

 

 

2007 DECEMBER • 425 MAGAZINE HOLIDAY ISSUE

2007 CHRISTMAS PICTORIAL OF LOCAL EASTSIDE ARTISTS' WORK • I was invited to be featured with 11 other fine artists in the 425 Magazine's Holiday issue's colorful pictorial, "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 was chock full of restored Victorians, Foursqaures, Craftsmans, and Bungalows built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This "getaway" destination included B&Bs, restaurants, 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 "Meet & Greets" there where I exhibited my Snohomish art in historic structures during their Fall and Winter Historic Home Tours. This was easy as Doug and I lived nearby in Sammamish during most of the 2000s.

 

 

 

2006 AUTUMN • 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 image of this historic structure 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 The Redmond Historical Society as their art director / senior graphic designer, RHS had me help Renee outfit her cafe with photos of historic Redmond, giving her restaurant the vintage feel she wanted.

Highlight • Years later in 2010, Ryan Donaldson purchased it 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 loyal, devoted clientele for years and kept my art of the historic cottage in his restaurant's entryway long after Doug and I left the area for Spokane in 2011.

 

 

 

WESTERN WASHINGTON • DONATING MY TIME AND TALENT • I was one of the Eastside Heritage Center founding members in Bellevue, WA. I also served 8 years on the Redmond Historical Society board of drectors. As art director, I did their newsletter, event signage, and graphics on historical banners for the 2013 City of Redmond's 100th Birthday Celebration.

EASTERN WASHINGTON • CONTINUING MY COMMITMENT • When Doug and I returned to the Spokane, as noted above, I served several area non-profits. This is my 9th year as art director / graphic designer for Spokane Preservtion Advocates quarterly newsletter UPDATE (pdf shared above). Working with editor Dave Shockley designing this from 2017 to present has been an honor. I've also been an active member of The MAC in several capacities since 1997. NOTE • Normally, I gave framed prints (and once an original) of my local setting art to several Inland NW benefits and auctions. During COVIID, much of this stopped, but blessedly it's resumed!

 

TWO BIG CAUSES I SUPPORT IN SPOKANE

CTE • A favorite cause has always been the Spokane Symphony's Christmas Tree Elegance. 2024 marked my 10th year donating my artwork to this worthy group. In 2024, my "FLYING SOUTH OVER SPOKANE FALLS (MONROE STREET BRIDGE)" was featured with Elizabeth Raol's "Spokane Experience" tree. It received enough interest that three clients reached out to me to purchase portraits of the bridge as special Christmas gifts.

TFM • As mentioned above, for the first time, instead of just donating financially to The Friends of Manito, I rolled up my sleeves, grabbed my gloves and trowel, and gave generously of my time (often six hours each week) to help the Friends of Manito (TheFriendsOfManito.org) prepare for their two Summer Plant Sales. It's been a wonderful experience this second year 2025, as the three women leading the volunteers, Gabi Tilley, Judy Palrud, and new addition Windy Reynolds (who will be taking over in thethe furture) were great educators for willing novices like me.

THE TEAM • It was rewarding as everyone pitched in, whether they were beginner volunteers like me or 20-year veterans. Time spent with this group was hugely healing after my loss of Doug, and soon after, my brother Bill to Alzheimers. Being part of "Friends" was a gift I gave myself! My first time working the Plant Sale in June 2024, I manned a table crammed with lavendar plants. Who knew there were 20 varieties of this beloved perennial?!?

This year in 2025, TFM Board invited me to share my art items at their Plant Sale booth. I offered six park image prints, two different Manito Park jigsaw puzzles, a revolving rack of hundreds of art cards (many with park images), plus posters I designed for TFM that featured my recent art honoring its biggest fundraiser. My artwork items earned over $700 in just a few short hours. I donated 100% of my earnings to The Friends of Manito.

Highlight • Last year, the two 2024 Plant Sales brought in $70,000 which funded the replacement of the failing 1953 Duncan Garden's Davenport Fountain plumbing. It's back to shooting sparkling arcs of water into the air again! Part of this money also paid for a new boiler and generator for the Conservatory to keep its gardens of succulents warm and thriving in Winter. Hopefully, 2025's earnings will exceed last year's.

 

 

INLAND NORTHWEST CAUSES FOR FINE ART AUCTION DONATIONS

 

 

 

PITTYPAT STUDIO • A COZY PLACE TO WORK AND PLAY

A WONDERFUL CHANGE • 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 condo.

The first was on the second floor office of our Sammamish house. An even larger studio (with an art gallery) found a home in the lower level of our Manito Craftsman. Currently, my studio (left) in our Moran Prairie cottage resides in what used to be Doug's "Man Room" (yes, I feel him near sometimes). Overlooking the front lane and more often than not lit with natural light, it's a lovely place to create. I've finished many paintings and projects like this website in this space.

PITTYPAT GALLERY CLOSING • 2020 to 2022 brought changes. For reasons which included our move, COVID, and health challenges with Doug, it became clear that it was time to close my gallery. I'm focusing on a commission work and a handful of in-person festivals these days.

"MEET & GREETS" • I was only able to appear at one in-person event in 2023 as the challenges on my plate that year were immense. Last year in Summer, I did Manito Park's June Art Festival, both the Summer and Holiday Marketplaces at Arbor Crest, "Meet & Greets" at both Hayden Lake and Manito Country Clubs. Doug would have been proud of my efforts I hope.

UNVEILING NEW ART • Occasionally, when I finish NEW artwork, I share it on my Facebook page. Quite often, I unveil NEW works on my web site's SPRING INTO SUMMER or FALL INO WINTER (HOLS) WHAT'S NEW page collections, especially if they reflect the current seaon(s). As time allows, I add these to my "Complete Collection" pdfs.

V.I.P. MALING LIST • To be added to my V.I.P. (Very Important Patron) list to learn about upcoming "Meet & Greets" and new products, phone or text me at 206.406.1409 to share your contact info.

 

 

 

THE HAPPIEST DAYS . . .

APRIL 15TH, 2000 • WEDDING DAY, ECHO FALLS CC, MONROE, WA • Dad's best friend Mike Doohan (dad passed in 1988) walked me down the aisle and "Course in Miracles" Robbie Fawnstock officiated. 250+ guests joined us, more than we ever thought possible! Doug's mom Kay, brother Tom, pal Ric Metzger, and sons Matt and Kevin were there for him. Sadly, daughter Leah's mother Patsy and partner Liz took her to Hawaii to prevent her from being part of our celebration. Sad for Doug, but it was a special day, regardless. My wedding party included Sally Mom, sisters Marilee, Peggy, sister-in-law Jan, and best friend Robin Westbrook. It was a day of dreams come true for both of ous. Highlight • A few months later after Bob's son Scot's baptism at Saint Al's, to complete our marriage, Jesuit Fr. Tony Lehman kindly blessed our union.

Geinius pal saxaphonist Darren Motamedy played Pachal Belle Canon as I walked down the aisle to Doug. At the end, he played "When a Man Loves a Woman" before regaling us all for hours at our reception. The dance floor was rarely empty. HNA pal Kathy Ryan and husband Budd Gould gave us a private room for our "after party dinner" at their Caralon Point Anthony's. More memories, a romantic honeymoon night, and the fun out-of-towners breakfast before all left for home ~ what a beautiful way to begin our "wonderful life."

"I DO . . . IN SICKNESS AND IN HEALTH . . . Who knew how quickly the 25 years would fly by, and how final Doug's passing would feel. Grief shares difficult lessons. But, I was SO blessed to have had him for the two+ decades I did. I'm relieved he's in heaven with those he loved, no longer suffering. The photo (left) shared us on the Lodge steps at Pebble Beach. We played three rounds there a year before he passed. All of Doug's scores were in the 70s, a "bucket list" accomplishment for this lifelong lover of "The "Greatest Game."

ANGELS ON EARTH EVERYWHERE • Some angels show up as kind friends on the phone or at my door. Sometimes thery're at church. Often they're in nature when I'm out for walk, helping with bad days, reminding me to be grateful for good ones. And every now and then, I feel Doug's presence as there've been a couple miracles with his fingers all over them. He's just here in a different way. I have a framed message on my studio wall my sis Peggy gave me • "Sometimes I just look up, smile and say, 'I know that was you.'"

 

 

 

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FINE ART OR CONTENT ON THIS PAGE?

iPhone • 206.406.1409 (Talk, Text & Voicemail)

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