Local Artists Paint for Hospitalized ChildrenThe Heart of Pinellas Decorative Artists (HPDA) organized a workshop to paint treasure boxes for children hospitalized at the Shriners' Hospital in Tampa. On January 2nd, HPDA members and their favorite young people gathered at St. Dunsten's Church in Largo to paint the boxes which are given to patients during their hospital stay. Patients use the boxes to store their get well cards and other personal "treasures." A number of members brought their children, grandchildren and neighbors who learned new painting skills while helping create these unique gifts. When their painting project was finished, the children added a note in the box with words of encouragement for the patients. The young artists plan to join members for a hospital tour when the boxes are delivered to the hospital. HPDA is a chapter of the international painting organization, Society of Decorative Painters (SDP). For several years, SDP has sponsored the treasure box project for Shriner's Hospitals throughout the United States. The local chapter has over 100 members who meet on the second Saturday of the month for painting workshops and seminars. In addition to developing their painting skills in acrylics, watercolor, oil, and other mediums, HPDA members are active in community service projects. In addition to the Shriners' Hospital, they have supported the SPCA, St. Giles food pantry and Habitat for Humanity. HPDA also encourages art education and regularly hosts "learn to paint" seminars at local libraries for people interested in exploring the world of decorative art. Members of the HPDA invite anyone who has an interest to visit their web site at hpdafl.com, email the club at hpdachapter@verizon.net or contact President Chris Wolfe at 727-541-3240 for more information.
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