Bringing Art and Nature Together
I attended classes at the Barn from 2003 to 2013, starting at the age of 9. I’m so grateful that Pat reached out and invited me to join the studio. I instantly fell in love with the Barn, moving on throughout the years into the teenage classes, master drawing classes, as well as working as an apprentice, and eventually leading up to my position as office manager at the age of 14.
I’m a second-generation student, with my father studying at the Barn, starting back in the 70s. I thoroughly enjoyed all mediums taught, but had a strong love for the gardens and nature walks, which taught me many different flowers and plants. I still use those lessons in my floral business today!
Having had experience with art and nature at the Barn, and having worked as the office manager there, I developed skills which eventually led me to my current career as a professional florist. I’ve worked at my shop, Colonial Flowers, since 2012, and after leaving the floral industry for some time, I returned in 2019 and eventually purchased the shop in 2020. The lessons of art and nature that Pat taught me have stayed with me all throughout my professional career as an independent florist. After all, floral design is a unique skill that brings art and nature together!
My most memorable experience at the barn was the nature lessons, the walks through the trails, and working directly with Pat, learning new skills not only in art, but also how art relates to everything you do. I made some very wonderful friendships through the Barn, and some of my greatest childhood memories were times spent at the Barn. The Barn community is truly that of a family!
The artist in today’s society has an important role, because art is truly a positive thing, and with the current times, everyone needs more positivity! The lessons from Pat still retain in my knowledge today, and as Pat taught me, you must remain positive, no matter what! My advice to any aspiring artist is to never stop learning, and do not be afraid to think out of the box! Be creative!
