Patty Tofsland lives in Stoughton with her husband Ken and has two adult daughters, Kaylan and Jenna. She is an active member of the Wisconsin State Rosemaling Association.   

“Living in Stoughton, Wisconsin my whole life, I have seen a lot of Norwegian art forms. In the early 1900s, Stoughton was nearly 90% Norwegian so that is why there is such a strong influence of that heritage. My high school art teacher had us Rosemale the store windows for Stoughton’s annual Syttende Mai, which is a celebration of Norway’s independence held each May. We used water-based Tempera paints mixed with dish soap on the windows. I enjoyed painting so much that I knew someday I would take some formal instruction in Rosemaling. When I was about to have my second daughter, I decided to take a class. That was 22+ years ago and I still love to Rosemale. I enjoy trying to paint on different and unique objects when I can, which made painting on this violin a lot of fun. I mostly paint in the Rogaland style but have also tried other styles. The Rogaland style has more realistic looking flowers, beautiful scroll work and is symmetrical.

I was deeply honored to paint a violin for the WYSO. After having been in band for 6 years throughout middle and high school I have a deep love and appreciation for music and what it can do to our lives. I listen to music often when I paint; it can be very relaxing.”