So much has happened since then--some good, and some which I am sorry to say has been very sad. Over the last year we have lost some very loved and valued members of the Club, whose memory we will cherish as long as we ourselves are around.
IN MEMORIUM
TERRY PATE
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| Terry & I, Christmas 2013 working on a scholarship fundraiser |
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| "Geraniums" A Prizewinning Oil by Terry Pate |
So now it is the same day, 6:45 pm, a couple of hours after my dear friend's memorial service at the Art Center. Terry Pate, who passed away just a few weeks ago, was a good friend whom I looked forward to seeing whenever I was in the Art Center, which happened to be very often when I was Chairman. She always knew what was going on with everyone in the Club, and was ready to help whenever she could. In spite of her physical ailments which were many and often, she persevered with her painting and variety of responsibilities with the Club, but especially with the Rosalee Hume Scholarship Fund, her pet project. Terry was a powerful presence, and you always knew when she was in the building. Always pitching in, giving advice, showing her newest painting, trying new things. She was so proud of the ribbons she had earned over the past year or so. Above is a painting that won 2d place in the Art Center competition. At her memorial service today several people stood up to say a few words about Terry, myself included, which was a small testament of her worth to the Club. Incidentally, she was the first one to stop by the house after my husband Bob had a heart attack a couple of years ago, with food, advice, and just a friendly ear. You will be remembered and missed always Terry.
HENRY PITT
Long-time member Henry Pitt, of Micco, was a friend, a mentor, a fine
artist, and a giant to all of us in the Sebastian River Art Club. Henry passed away April 5th at age 87, after a long, hard and adventurous life. He was of strong character, had lots of great stories, enjoyed a great history with the art world on the Treasure Coast, and with only one eye
was an inspiration to all the artists at the Club. Each week he would come in
with a new painting, one more stunning than the other. Most with
wildlife or domestic animals in them, many from Montana where he once
was owner of a large ranch. He also was a bit of a poet, proof of which follows:A COWBOY'S DREAM
A curve in the road, a cloud in the sky,
A crisp cut hillside rising so high.
One lonely pine tree reaching into the blue,
A beautiful landscape dresed in full autumn hue.
All ten horseback riders just went riding by
Except for the painter with an artistic eye.
He saw the hill, the lone pine tree, a cloud in the sky,
And put it on canvas, in color, for the other nine to buy.
Just a dreamy old cowboy could dream up this tidbit,
One who came from Montana with the name Henry Pitt.
Henry was a colorful guy with a quick wit and charming smile, and he enjoyed some notoriety and fame over the years for his paintings and also for his efforts on behalf of the arts. He was quick to offer advice and critique when asked, and all of it was good. My husband Bob and I enjoyed listening to his stories of Montana and various adventures and foibles during his long life. His legacy will live on in the countless paintings he's left behind, and the memories that will stay with all of us.
God speed, Henry . . . and keep the palette filled for us as we join you in painting heaven some day.
VITO DERASMO
Vito joined the Sebastian River Art Club only a couple of years ago, but right from the first we loved him. He had a rather quiet demeanor, unless something ticked him off, then the real Vito regaled you with his opinion. He laughed with us when we were happy, and consoled us when things went wrong. He was a fabulous artist who found himself stretching with us all at the Art Center--trying new things and enjoying the diversity of other artists. His culinary skills were unmatchable, and we always looked forward to seeing what he brought to share. He was helpful, kind, generous, and tried to hide his loving side--but it showed through too much. I will treasure the crystal angel he made for me, which hangs as an ornament on my lanai screen, and reminds me of him daily.
BILL MARSH
FLORENCE CLOWES
B. April 10, 1928 - D. January 29, 2014
Florence Clowes had a caring heart and a passion for helping others, along with a talent for leadership and creativity. With a Masters Degree, she served in leadership positions in several civic organizations throughout her life, and joined the Peace Corps at 65, following her husband's death.v After moving to Florida in 1994, she became active in the Red Cross, working at disasters in Florida, around the US, and in Guam. In between, she joined the SRAC and indulged herself in art, until it was time for her to answer to a higher calling once again. She was an gifted artist and authored 4 books during her lifetime. I did not have the privilege of knowing her, much to my loss.
RICHARD WALSH
After making this memorium posting it was brought to my attention that long-time member Dick Walsh also passed away. He has been described as "A Jokester" who was a really fine oil painter. Subjects focused on beach scenes and people. His technique emulated Helen White of TV fame, in that he underpainted values in black, whites and gray acrylics, then overlaid with oil colors. He was not too active in the Club in recent years, but I do remember his sparkling smile and gentle demeanor. Wish I could have seen him paint in this interesting technique. So much talent has passed through this Club, sometimes in just a whisper, but all leave their mark in some way.
And now on the lighter side ...
MURALS
2 great murals were created by the Sebastian River Art Club members, one for the Moose Lodge in Micco, and the other for Sebastian's Community Center. Photos of them are to come when I get them.
NEW SHOW
An art show by Club members was organized July 26 at the Moose Club in Micco. Many people participated and the show was beautiful. It was great having a show indoors with air conditioning, food, drink, and plenty of room.
NEW COLORS IN THE ART CENTER
Sheila Lougheed, Suze Lavender, et. al., repainted the whole Art Center, with one wall in each room a contrasting color. Looks fabulous! Even the kitchen has a black wall! Actually it was painted with chalkboard paint which will enable us to leave messages on the wall, like a bulletin board. Behold Sheila's artwork and verse!Beginning this Saturday, August 9th, 2-4 pm, the Art Center will be hosting a Life Drawing session, with a live model. All welcome, and I think the cost for each session will be about $5. Kathy Costa is heading up this program.
FREE CLASSES
In memory of Terry Pate, I will be offering free art classes through July and August. July is now now over, so next classes are August 7th and August 21st. 9-12 noon, mostly oil and acrylic but other mediums are accepted. A donation, if you can, of $5 will be accepted in memory of Terry Pate, to go towards the Rosalee hume Scholarship fund which she was so dedicated to. Normal class charges are $15 for members, $20 for non-members, first and third Thursday of the month. Call if you are new or have questions - 772-581-8281.
ART STORE
Many fine and gently used art supplies are on sale at the Art Center for members to peruse and purchase at very reasonable prices. Proceeds go to the Rosalee Hume Scholarship fund, in memory of Terry Pate. Most of the supplies were donated to the Club from Terry's family.
ART CENTER STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION
The Art Center, although fully functioning, is currently under transition during the hot summer months, as Sheila Lougheed and Suze Lavender, et. al., continue improving on its aesthetics and functionality. Many wonderful changes have been made, but stay tuned ... there will be more! As the former Chairman, I personally am so pleased with the changes and improvements, and look forward to seeing what new ideas this twosome comes up with. I was happy to pitch in myself with the white walls, but really wanted to throw some of that red paint on it! Thanks to all who helped with the transition.
NEW WEBSITE
Check out our new website at www.sebastianriverartclub.org, which was launched this summer. Looks pretty good.
GREG HILLS PHOTO AND GALLERY
Opening Reception
SRAC member and photographer extraordinaire, Greg Hills, has opened a photography studio and art gallery at 1614 US Hwy 1, across from Wendy's. He welcomes SRAC friends to an opening reception on Friday, August 15th, 6-10 pm (free and open to the public). Join him in celebration of the addition of a fine art photography gallery in our great town. The more art the better!
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| "Palenquela" photo by Greg Hills |
Well, that's all for now. If you have news that you feel needs to be on this blog, let me know.
Judy Burgarella
Blogger
