The Full Story
About
ARDIKA Gold Bar is a community studio and marketplace in Gold Bar, WA, where wellness, creativity, and community come together. We offer art workshops, craft classes, and educational events for all ages. Our shop features organic herbs, handmade gifts, local artwork, and vintage treasures. Discover a welcoming space to create, learn, and connect — a hub for artists, makers, and mindful living in the heart of Gold Bar.
A Space to Create & Connect
Our Creative Studio is open to all—artists and non-artists alike. It’s a space to gather around easels, paints, tables, and craft supplies, and to let curiosity lead the way. Here, the focus isn’t on following directions, but on finding your own creative voice. Our Marketplace offers treasures for both daily living and soulful nourishment. You’ll find:
• Dried herbs and flowers, naturally grown
• Handmade self-care items like bath salts and scrubs • Vintage bottles and unique finds
• Original works of art from local artisans.
The Heart Behind
ARDIKA
Gold Bar
Sue Simpson, the founder of ARDIKA Gold Bar, has called Gold Bar home for over eight years. Her dream of creating a community space began years ago when she taught arts and crafts at a homeschool co-op. Watching children light up with confidence and imagination—and hearing parents share their gratitude—planted the first seeds of what would one day become ARDIKA. Sue’s philosophy has always been simple: art isn’t about rigid instruction, it’s about inspiration. Her style of teaching invites people to explore, to play, and to discover joy in the process. Her journey took on even deeper meaning while caring for a loved one with dementia. Together, they painted and sang, and she saw firsthand how creativity can soothe anxiety, awaken the mind, and bring connection and joy
Inspired by Nature, Rooted in Community
Moving to Gold Bar allowed Sue to immerse herself in the healing power of nature. Hiking, walking, and simply breathing in the outdoors became her therapy and her teacher. She now weaves this love of nature into her creative practices, from art journaling and altered books to encaustic and intuitive painting.