By Betty Lee
If you’re in the Gassaway/Sutton area, stop in during business hours to see the beautiful work of Darlene Jones, who is the August 2021 Artist on display at The Tiny Sparrow. A selection of her pieces are ready for immediate purchase. Message The Tiny Sparrow, Art Studio & Happy Place, on Facebook for more information or call/text 304-549-8203.
From the Artist:
“Growing up, I loved to color. Other than that, I never had any interest in drawing or painting. As a young adult, I was always interested in learning various crafts: macramé, cake decorating, ceramics, and counted cross stitch. Around 2001, I met a woman through work who painted with acrylic paint. She and a couple of friends would gather weekly to paint together. She invited me to join them. I was so surprised at the immediate thrill I got at creating something on a blank page or canvas! I especially developed a love for painting flowers. If it had not been for the encouragement received from these women, I would not have pursued acrylic painting.
Around 2017, I discovered the Frugal Crafter (Lyndsey Weirich) on YouTube. Her love and enthusiasm of painting and watercolor really sparked my interest. Not being sure if I would like watercolor and not wanting to invest a lot of money, I bought a tray of Crayola watercolors like kids used in grade school. The softness of the watercolor was so different than acrylics, and I immediately loved them! I especially loved to paint cards in watercolor.
In late 2019, early 2020, I began coloring with colored pencils and really enjoyed it. I researched YouTube for colored pencil tutorials and took some Zoom classes. While colored pencil is slow or medium to work with, I loved the process of adding layers to build depth.
My goal as an artist is to create something in which to view or find something peaceful. While I am truly never satisfied with a piece, I believe if I work hard enough, I will improve and become a better artist.
I live in Elkview, West Virginia, with my very supportive husband, Roger. When I am not creating, I enjoy reading, music, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.”
The Studio is located at 614 Elk St. Gassaway, WV, and offers Tuesday and Friday guided paint classes. Come check it out if you’re ever in Gassaway.