Barton's Creek Collection

Marsha Friesen, Artist

Marsha Friesen's affection and bond with bears began early in her childhood.  She fondly remembers family outings to Yellowstone National Park where they would tent camp and observe the great Grizzly Bears.  They may have been a bit too close for the grownups but not close enough for her.  It was then that she began to develop her special kinship with these friends of the wilderness.  

Creativity is in her family's genes.  Her father was an inventor and a very creative man.  Marsha feels her creativity came from him.  She remembers as a child making a beautiful doll dress from a material that she felt was special.  Unfortunately her Mom's enthusiasm was not as great since the material came from Mom's favorite scarf.

The family ranch in American Falls, Idaho has become the setting for bear making in the Friesen family.  She shares her love for making Teddy Bears with her two daughters, both accomplished Artists.  Her son helps in the bookkeeping and her husband helps stuff and joint.  Many of the family creations have been donated for auction to help those in need from their community.

Marsha has touched the hearts of many collectors by her creations that speak to their hearts.  She has eight Golden Teddy Award nominations and two Toby winners.  Although she enjoys the awards and nominations, her greatest joy comes from collectors who appreciate her work and want to take her creations home with them.  The bond she feels with her collectors and the joy she brings them makes it all worth while.