Throughout my childhood, I was literally surrounded by art. As the daughter of a well known portrait painter in upstate New York, I have vivid memories of my father setting-up his easel in our living room every Saturday morning and painting the children and adults who had come to pose for their portrait. I would stand behind his chair and watch him paint. His studio was located beside my upstairs bedroom and paintings hung throughout the home. Art supplies were plentiful, so as a young child and into my teens, I enjoyed drawing and painting.

I rediscovered my love of art after retiring from a 42 year career in education, first in the public schools and later at the college level. Needless to say, between raising two sons and grading stacks of papers, there was never time for painting. When I retired, I resolved to try watercolor painting. I’ve always appreciated its vibrant and transparent colors as well as the need for such precise technique. I accepted the challenge of relearning how to draw and paint and soon became totally engrossed in the process. I have been painting ever since!

Traveling with my husband has been a source of inspiration for many of my paintings. Trips to California, the coast of North Carolina, Blue Ridge Mountains, Adirondack Mountains, Ireland, Cornwall, and Wales have provided opportunities to explore nature’s beauty in so many different settings.

It’s also been a fun challenge trying to capture the unique personalities of the family dogs, especially my own dog “Sophie”.

Rediscovering my love of drawing and painting after so many years has been a wonderful gift to myself. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving hours of stimulation and many moments of joy!