My art consists of recreating scenes from the joyous moments of my life. I like to find the beauty in ordinary scenes: a heron waiting to catch an unwary fish, a well worn path in a mountain landscape, the inky black solitude of the shade in a sunlit forest. The path of my life hasn’t always allowed me the time to be creative. I have finally started my own business which allows me to share my talent with others. I find painting to be challenging and so rewarding!
The subject matter comes from the many photographs my husband and I take on our travels and adventures. I like using acrylics because I want to get my ideas onto the canvas and have it dry quickly. Painting for me is an active process that has to excite me, or I’m not interested. Presenting an image that invites the viewer into the scene is one of my main goals. I love the feeling of making art and losing myself in the creative process. This is what motivates me as an artist.
Biography
I am a native of Kenova, West Virginia. I graduated from Marshall University with a degree in art education in 1987. I have taught elementary art for 30 years in Cabell County, WV, and am a current member of Allied Artists of WV, Tri-State Arts Association of WV, and the Tamarack Artisans Group. I have created many pieces of commissioned artwork, illustrated a children’s book, designed a cycling jersey for the Ashland Cycling Enthusiasts, and most recently designed a train engine for the Hoops Family Children’s Hospital of Huntington. My engine design was awarded 1st runner up for the People’s Choice Award. My painting, Blossom the Possum, was also chosen to be a part of the 2015 Best of West Virginia exhibition at Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia in November. Most recently, two paintings were chosen for the Allied Artists 2016 Juried Exhibition in Parkersburg, WV and the Tri-State Arts Association Biennial Exhibit 2016, in Huntington, WV. I also had two entries in the Annual Anna Robinson Memorial Art Show in Grayson, KY, with one receiving a first place award.
I most enjoy working in acrylics and oils, with emphasis on color and contrast. In addition to creating art, I have a passion for nature, travel, and adventure. I have rappelled off the New River Gorge Bridge, snorkeled Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and climbed Mt. Fuji in Japan. I strive to make art that will be both enjoyable and meaningful to the viewer. I would describe my art as, “A way to create a place that is inviting and beautiful, thought provoking. That’s my goal as a painter.”
Other Creative Skills
Drawing, Painting, Public Art Design & Production
