In the early 90’s I discovered gourds. At  “The Ohio Gourd Show” in Mt. Gilead OH. For years I went
  back to the show, I was so impressed with the painted gourds I knew I had to learn to paint.

  In 1995 I retired from the Air Force after 20 years and moved to Las Vegas NV.  We lived there for 3
  years then moved back to OH.  During my 3 years in Las Vegas I looked and looked for a teacher in
  Decorative Painting.  3 months before the move back I started taking lessons.  My teacher told me
  about the “Society of Decorative Painters SDP” and “Heart of Ohio Tole HOOT” in Columbus OH.  I 
  joined the SDP and HOOT as soon as I moved back and started taking lessons in every medium they
  offered and found that I liked Acrylics, and Pen and Ink.

  It was at A HOOT Chapter meeting that I first took a seminar in Pen & Ink with the late Jan Spanik.  I
  was hooked, and started taking classes in Jan’s home, she became a friend as well as my teacher.

 Taking certification with Mary Owens opened up a whole new world.  I now teach in my home studio,
 and travel teach.

  My first love “Gourds” are still my favorite surface and I use Pen & Ink on some of my designs.

  I am also a One Stroke Certified Instructor.

  Member of:
  Society of Decorative Painters SDP
  Heart of Ohio Tole HOOT
 American Gourd Society AGS
 Ohio Gourd Society OGS, I am currently membership secretary
 Indiana Gourd Society IGS
 California Gourd Society CGS

  Please check my web site for teaching schedule, items for sale, and other information and links

  www.GourdsbyLeeB.com