Nationally noted artist holds retreat at Carver Barn in Defeated community

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Artists from around the country recently gathered at Defeated’s Carver Barn for a painting retreat instructed by nationally known artist Donna Dewberry.

Based in Florida, Dewberry is a noted artist and instructor with followers world-wide.

The artist has an extensive multi-media presence including the internet. 

Dewberry is known for promoting a painting technique known as “one stroke painting”.

The idea for the retreat began with Defeated area resident and local hobby artist/crafter Vickie Givens, an avid follower of Dewberry who has a passion for painting and the one stroke technique.

Always enjoying crafting with her hands, Givens initially took up sewing but later in life took on painting after spending time with family friend and noted Kempville artist Reba Reese. 

“I have always been intrigued by painting,” comments Givens, who immerses herself in her work. “When I’m painting, I don’t know anything else is going on in the world”.

The Defeated area resident often paints by herself at a kitchen table, as well as socially with friends.

“You don’t have to be able to draw to paint, everybody can do it,” relates Givens, who paints as much as three to six times per week. A painting session can last a few minutes or few hours.

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