Young Artist Inspires Creativity Through Gourd Painting

A creative collaboration between friends has blossomed into a rewarding artistic experience in Springville. Young artist Chelsea Rose has been visiting Judy Lowery once a month, sparking new ideas and projects that encourage both creativity and fellowship. Recently, the duo dedicated a Sunday afternoon to painting gourds, integrating lessons about art and spirituality.

In preparation for Rose’s visit, Lowery gathered a selection of paints, brushes, and homegrown gourds from her garden. This particular garden project began years ago, inspired by a gourd artist encountered during a UC Davis Master Gardener course. The couple designed a “gourdhouse” using PVC pipes, allowing various gourd seeds to flourish under the summer sun. Over the years, they harvested a variety of these unique plants.

With a fondness for this hobby, Lowery first introduced the art of gourd crafting to Rose. Their initial project involved creating a mobile from smaller gourds and driftwood. Although some time had passed since they last painted, Rose suggested revisiting the gourds, stating, “Well, it’s fall. So, I think we should do gourds!”

On the day of their artistic endeavor, Rose brought instructions for a unique painting technique. She had learned about painting roses from a friend who specializes in tiny scenes on dried tea bags, though they decided to focus solely on the gourds first. Lowery chose a round gourd with a dark brown stain, while Rose opted for a medium-sized bottle gourd.

As they painted, time flew by, filled with laughter and conversation. Lowery applied yellow acrylic paint over her gourd, creating a burnished finish. Meanwhile, Rose guided her through a challenging technique of combining two colors of paint on one brush to form the petals of a rose. Despite Lowery’s efforts, her creations resembled blobs rather than flowers, but the experience was rewarding nonetheless.

In a reflective moment shared via email after their session, Rose quoted Proverbs 16:9, stating, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord establishes his steps.” She drew a parallel between the act of painting and life itself, encouraging a mindset of surrender to divine guidance.

“This verse suggests that while we can make plans, God is the one who ultimately directs our steps,” Rose explained. “Just like when we paint with a flat brush, trying to capture the beauty of a rose blossom. We are supposed to let the brush flow and do all the work, but our natural tendency is to try to control every movement.”

The lesson resonated with Lowery, who expressed gratitude for the reminder to trust in a higher power. She cited Ephesians 2:10 and Philippians 1:6 to emphasize the belief that everyone is created for purpose and that work in life is ongoing.

Through their artistic sessions, Lowery and Rose not only explore creativity but also delve into deeper spiritual lessons. As they continue their monthly gatherings, they inspire one another to embrace both their artistic talents and the guidance that comes from faith.

For Lowery, this journey is a testament to the beauty of friendship and the transformative power of art in everyday life. She invites others to explore their creative inclinations and consider the lessons learned along the way.