Featured Artist Winter 2025

Laura Manser - Tulare-Sequoia Gourd Patch

Submitted by Debra Zimmerman, Director Southern

I’m delighted to introduce Laura Manser, a talented artist whose diverse creative background ultimately led her to the captivating world of gourds. Laura lives in the beautiful foothills of Sequoia, in the Woodlake area. I had the pleasure of meeting her at the 2025 CGS Retreat in Three Rivers, where she was nominated by her patch to be our featured artist.

Her artistic journey began with lapidary work through her local Gem and Mineral Club. There, she honed her skills in crafting cabochons, which soon sparked an interest in beading. Always eager to learn new techniques, Laura later explored lampwork bead making—a skill that would eventually complement her gourd artistry perfectly.

Laura was introduced to gourds by Sue Winters— whom many of you know for her dedicated coordination of the beloved Containers of Our Culture Conference—and she discovered the ideal canvas for combining all her creative passions. Her gourd art beautifully integrates gemstones, beads, and detailed designs, showcasing her unique artistic vision.

In addition to her artwork, Laura is also a Master Gardener. She serves on the board, where she is responsible for recruitment and teaching. Although she admits that her local climate makes growing gourds a challenge, she’s fortunate to live near fellow member Cecile Garrison, who generously hosts classes in her garden, renowned for its manipulated gourd varieties. Laura has incorporated some of these gourds into her work.

As a relatively new gourd artist, Laura is enjoying the process of exploring different techniques. She was recently introduced to beaded chain work and used this technique for the CGS retreat exchange (see photo). She has embedded cabochons into gourds and created beaded bezels around the stones. Twice a month, she works with other artists in an open studio environment where multiple mediums are explored. She enjoys patch workshops and play days, and she often studies the work of other artists in both CGS and AGS for inspiration.

When asked for words of wisdom for fellow artists, she shared these thoughts: • Save your scraps—you never know what they might help you create in the future. • Live with your gourd and let it tell you what it wants to be. • Take time to plan the steps that will lead you to your final design.

Laura’s work is a wonderful example of how diverse creative paths can come together to form something truly inspiring. Her passion, skill, and innovative spirit make her a remarkable addition to the Tulare/Sequoia Gourd Patch Community.