I began painting in 1986, after years spent in teaching and medical work. It was a perfect solution to my desire to be home with the children and my longing to be expressive in a creative way with color, design, and texture. My dad was a painter, so it was “in the blood”, and when I paint, it is a tribute to his talent, and the encouragement he gave to hisown children.
I believe that every one of us has within us the power and ability to be artistic in ways we might not even know. For me, each painting is an adventure. I try to find a different look at the ordinary. The process of painting is what is important to me, the outcome secondary, so in letting go and enjoying the satisfaction of absorbing the moment, I feel I get my best work. Sometimes hours fly by during a painting session. Sometimes it is a struggle. Painting with impulsiveness and discipline are weighty considerations in my art.
My work is primarily about nature and how I see objects in nature in relation to their world. It could be seen as impressionistic with a heavy emphasis on color connections and textural variety. I like to examine things in nature closeup and exaggerate color and shapes. Many of these paintings are done in acrylics, which allow for strong color, layering, and texturizing. I have expanded lately to a series on music and to another on exploring vessels of ancient times, using this same style.
Some wonderful travel experiences have given me the desire to paint a series about street scenes in France and Italy, primarily. These are sometimes absent of people, but show a moment in time where the street disappears around a corner or through an archway, while picking up the architectural features prevalent in the area. These paintings are often done in watercolor, and perhaps collage.
I taught art at the Multnomah Art Center for 11 years, and will be holding a workshop at the Village Gallery in September. . All of my students have taught me a great deal. I love that they are so excited to learn and wanting to make art an important part of their lives.
My work shows in the Ryan Gallery in Lincoln City. In addition to small shows around Oregon, I participate in a couple larger ones, Celebration of Creativity, and L.O.C.A.L. 14. I am a member of that wonderful organization of women who puts on the L.O.C.A.L. 14 Women’s Art Show at the World Forestry Center each October. We invite around 40 guest artists to show with us, making it an amazing display by around 90-100 women artists. We have a scholarship program, which provides money to women who are currently studying art.L.O.C.A.L. 14 Women's Art Show