There are no set formulas when I work with gourds. I start with an idea . . . then their shapes and contours become the focal points of the designs and the inspiration that ultimately creates the pieces.

Lynne Kottel discovered gourds in 1998 and connected with an artistic passion that eventually drew her from San Diego to Placitas, New Mexico. She began teaching gourd art classes, selling her work in galleries and juried art shows locally and in Santa Fe, and in 2002, founded the New Mexico Gourd Society. Her work has been awarded and sold in the Fine Arts Category at the New Mexico State Fair. Gourds are a source for diversification and challenge in her art work.

Working with natural fibers has always inspired her and after discovering gourds, it was only natural to combine the two. Blending the unique characteristics of the gourd with the use of colorful, textured plant materials and natural fibers creates the movement and flow in her work. Each piece generates the ideas and inspiration for the next one.

Lynne is a member of New Mexico Arts, Jardineros de Placitas, the American Gourd Society, Las Arañas Spinners and Weavers Guild, and Handweavers Guild of America.

Visit Lynne’s website at www.ziagourds.com.