October 17th, 2010

A Golden Moment

There were MANY golden moments this past September when the PDPA, an organization dedicated to elevating the field of decorative finishing, held it’s first Education Summit in Golden Colorado.

Andre-and-Pat

After many years of work and planning by some of the most notable artists in the decorative painting field, the PDPA is working towards reaching its own “summit”, thanks in large part to the vision of founding President Andre Martinez (left) and incoming Executive Director and industry dynamo, Pat Ganino.

untitled

At this year’s inagural event there were daily morning lectures on a variety of topics…

lecture

held in a converted chapel that is now a local art center.

Sean-Crosby

These were followed  by morning demonstrations in the garden by master artisans such as Sean Crosby,

Sheri-Hoeger

and hands-on training in a variety of classic techniques by other notable artists in this field, such as Sheri Hoeger.

Lunch

Before the afternoon presentations began, there were delicious hand-prepared lunches,

Pierre

featuring guest chefs. Here, the incomparable  Pierre Finkelstein shows that he is a man of MANY talents…

Pascal playing 2

…as is French artist  Pascal Amblard.

Nicola-Vigini

One day’s afternoon sessions featured informal discussions on business practices with noteable artists such as Nicola Vigini of Vigini Studios.

Mark-Goilden

The ultimate “Golden” moment for ME came when Mark Golden, president of Golden Paints…

Melanie-Royals

…awarded the newly esteemed “Golden Brush Award” to 4 people who have helped to shape and support the decorative finishing industry in their own unique ways. Here I am, looking shocked and sheepish (and trying not to get TOO emotional) as I was the first recipient called to the stage. Truly, it was a great honor to receive this recognition from a man who is so highly respected and admired in our industry. Golden Paints is a company that is well known for putting it’s customers and employees first-a key to their ongoing success.

Jon-Sunde

Congratulations to fellow recipients Jon Sunde, a master artisan and expert in the field of Tadelakt application…

Iliaq

…as well as Ilia Anassov, who works diligently to keep the art of true fresco painting alive. Unfortunately, I had to leave the event early to catch a plane and am unsure of who the 4th recipient was??

group

Next year’s Summit has been scheduled for Sept 8-10. 2011 and is open only to PDPA members.  Perhaps you’d like to be their to create your OWN Golden moments?

All photos by decorative artist and photographer, Jon Smith.