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About Us

Our Story

Heart of Ohio Tole, Inc. (HOOT) is a not-for-profit charitable organization whose purpose is to promote and educate people about decorative painting. HOOT was organized in 1975.

HOOT had hosted painting conventions for 39 years (1979-2019). We had instructors and students come from all over the world to participate in our classes, shop in our Exhibit Hall and enjoy being with fellow painters, learning new methods, honing skills and creating beautiful artwork.

HOOT has sponsored the Decorative Painting category at the Ohio State Fair since 1978.

Since 1998 HOOT members have been providing Memory Boxes to over 10 hospitals in Central Ohio area for infant bereavement programs.

Our members set up displays in showcases at area libraries to promote decorative painting to local communities.

In 2019 the Westerville Uptown Merchants sponsored an Art Hop and HOOT had a display to promote decorative painting.

In 2019 HOOT provided hand-painted items for auction at ‘Trees for a Cause’ where their proceeds went to a variety of philanthropic organizations. HOOT has participated in many community projects including Festival of Trees to support Columbus Children’s Hospital, as well as Mural painting at the Columbus Zoo.

HOOT has participated in Plant Pride on Parsons, a community beautification project in Columbus where our members painted large flower pots.

HOOT members have taught classes for Girl Scout Troops so that they may have the chance to earn a badge.

HOOT has made donations to Volunteers of America homeless children’s art classes and numerous donations to other philanthropic groups throughout the years.