Terry and Don Helmstetter
Margie Calhoun
When Don and Terry Helmstetter decided to move from Reno, Nev., to Robson Ranch in Eloy, a major factor in their choice was the community’s arts and crafts facility. Both of the Helmstetters have been dedicated watercolor artists for more than 40 years, and they were drawn to the promise of an active creative space.
After settling in, they discovered that the art center was significantly underutilized, with no consistent schedule of workshops or ongoing instruction. While occasional paid instructors were brought in and members could enroll in individual classes, opportunities for regular, structured learning and community engagement in the arts were limited.
It all started when they invited a small group of friends into their home for watercolor instruction and it quickly grew into something larger. As interest increased, Don and Terry approached the Fine Arts Guild Board to request the creation of a weekly watercolor workshop. This led to the establishment of the Tuesday afternoon beginners’ class.
Don has generously devoted every Tuesday from 1 to 4 p.m. for the past five years to guiding and supporting our group, while Terry frequently stepped in or led special projects of her own, as well as becoming a member of the Fine Arts Board. Their contributions have truly been invaluable.
Although it has been exciting to watch beginners grow into talented watercolorists, Don always reminds us of the most important part: “Are you having fun?” And the answer is always yes. There is nothing better on a hot summer afternoon than stepping into the cool, air conditioned art studio to paint, laugh, learn, and enjoy each other’s company.
What began with basic supplies and simple beginner exercises has now expanded into two weekly workshops, including an intermediate/advanced session. Inspired by this success, other groups have launched weekly workshops of their own, such as acrylics and colored pencil.
Unfortunately for all of us, the Helmstetters will be leaving Robson Ranch as they transition to an Independent Care Facility. They leave behind an extraordinary gift: a vibrant, hands-on, creative art center that is fully used, deeply appreciated, and thriving because of their vision and dedication.
Thank you, Don and Terry, for this remarkable legacy. We will proudly carry the baton forward. We wish you both the very best as you begin your next adventure. You will be missed!