So, things are more “normal” again, and WOW! meets again in that cute building next to the Tualatin Police Station. The social value of WOW! – camaraderie, laughter, a time for storytelling, information swapping – supports the art mission for developing self-expression and skills.” There’s something about those smiles that fill the room. WOW! Vice President Terry Witter sends out witty weekly reminder notices to the group and recently commented, “Several people, including myself, are feeling we WANT to paint since we can actually see each other in person. It is a testament to a shared passion for doing art and the bonds of friendship that this local art group is still going strong after almost 13 years. It would have been easy for everyone to go in their own separate directions and for the group to die. Meeting online was exactly what some members needed in a dark time, and despite the end of the lockdown, meeting online continues to be a good idea. Wild Over Watercolor member Terry Witter.Īrtists who adapted to the digital format and met on Zoom not only diminished their isolation and kept up with their friends, but also kept painting and making progress in their art.

Amazingly, we are able to encourage and help each other where it is asked for.” We hold up our art to the camera and share it on the screen. Everyone’s style and creativity come through. Karen Berg, current WOW! President said, “We got a rhythm going, and we look forward to our Wednesday and Friday Zoom sessions. And while I had to be careful about not bringing home germs to my family, painting at home and seeing my friends on the computer screen worked for me.” It’s nice not to break down and set up all the time.

While meeting online wasn’t always perfect, it was, for some, a lifeline and kept a beating heart going at the core of the organization.Īrtist Dianne Hicks of Tualatin, a regular participant in the Zoom sessions, will tell you that not having to carry art supplies to an away location can be a plus, “I like being able to keep my art set up at my art table at home. Could they paint together online and make that work until things returned to normal? Like others groups, WOW! turned to Zoom to stay connected. Like many organizations at the beginning of Covid, WOW! wondered if they could survive. They are also an open group, meaning they are accepting new members. Just who is WOW!? They are a watercolor painting group with members at various levels of accomplishment who encourage each other’s progress, provide useful critique, and learn together. Most of WOW!’s meetings are held at the Tualatin Heritage Center.

Heart of the wild wow gathering