Washington State Gourd Society

Welcome to the home of the

We are the Mu Chapter of the American Gourd Society

The artistry of Myrna Grigsby

Current WSGS President

Myrna's Story: My name is Myrna Grigsby and I'm honored to be the first President of WSGS. This adventure started in October of 2007 with a lot of determination, hard work, sense of humor and dedication by a group of artists that had a similar goal in mind.

Although I lived in Arizona for 4 years and learned the art of "gourding" down there, it wasn't too long before home was calling. My husband Larry, and I moved home in March of 2007. The style of gourding in the Southwest is much different than gourding in the Northwest. Down South we used a lot of feathers and items found in the dessert, while up here, it is a lot more coiling, weaving, etc. Not to say there isn't a huge crossover between the two because there is, different areas, different interests..

In the very short time we started this adventure we have grown leaps and bounds. The response has been awesome with folks often saying.."I had no idea there were other gourders around here!". Among the many new friends I have made, I have also learned so many new techniques just since being home. I am very fortunate to be married to a man for over 22 years who supports me 110%. He is always there to give me a pep talk, or pack (and unpack) my many displays when I do a show and not give me "that look" when another box arrives from some far off land with gourd goodies!

We have a "blended" family that includes 2 daughters, 2 sons, 5 grandchildren. Thankfully (did I say that??) they are raised and on their own now. At home with us is a cat named Sushi, a Puggle Dog (Beagle & Pug) named Bella, a mix terrier and schnauzer named Chloe' and 6, oops, now it's down to 5, fish.. I still go down to the Wuertz "Running of the Gourds" Festival in Casa Grande, Arizona, in February, where I have the privilege of judging the fabulous gourd show at their festival. I am looking forward to the first ever Washington State Gourd Society Festival in the summer of 2010 and have my fingers crossed that everyone jumps right in and helps us out with the planning!

Send me email at gypsysouldesign@comcast.net