Early this summer I learned of the 18th annual NWSSA symposium at Camp Brotherhood, near Mt. Vernon, Washington through my sculpture instructor at the College of Southern Idaho. This was the first time I had heard of the symposium or NWSSA, and all it entails. With short notice, I began to make last minute arrangements to attend. After tying up loose ends with family and work, I made the trip to Washington State with a couple other gals from Idaho State University.

 

From the very first day that I arrived, I was greeted with warm and helpful guidance from the staff and other participants. I found the teachers and fellow artists to be very talented, knowledgeable, and sharing in their knowledge, and a very creative and fun group. The event was well organized in the presentation of the many workshops and the sharing of invaluable experience by fellow artists. Two examples are MJ Andersons’ insight regarding working with marble, and Tom Urban’s wealth of knowledge of both hand and power tool tips that make the job much easier. It would be impossible in this limited space to mention the whole amount of help, assistance, and instruction that I received from so many other wonderful people for my personal projects. And to all who contributed to my experience, I must say a giant “Thank you.”

The workshops were invaluable, and the field trips to the river memorable and rewarding. The meals and evening camaraderie were fun, and led to getting to know a wonderful array of lifetime friends and compatriots.

 

Any artist who would like to expand their personal knowledge of stone sculpture would benefit greatly from the experiences at this symposium.

 

Again, my heartfelt thanks to all of those who attended and helped in every way, and I look forward to seeing you all next year!