About

Art has been with me since I was a small child. I have always been surrounded by creative individuals, starting with my family who supported any and all of my efforts - then as an adult as a part of several art groups, the members of which have kept me inspired and focused. I have also taught art in its many forms to children and adults for a number of years. The challenge of keeping ahead of them has pushed me to try new things, which in turn affects my work.

Of late, I have been experimenting with colour, mood, movement, abstraction and surface texture. This allows things to happen in an often random manner, bringing together the elements until they evolve into something which shows promise. I build on patterns, as well as emphasize colours and shapes until the final image takes form. At times I force myself to go beyond the initial image, cutting into it or covering parts with collage. Frequently this works, but other times I may destroy something with potential, forcing myself to find a new method of finalizing the painting. The whole purpose of the process is to stretch and grow, allowing my creativity the freedom to take new paths. My work ranges from the realistic to the abstract, often with elements of each. The urge to create is neverending, becoming a focus, a purpose, a goal.

My Artistic Influences

As a child I had many creative influences which strengthened my interest in the arts. I was introduced early on to the paintings of the Renaissance and to Greek Sculptures and was so impressed that from that day I became dedicated to becoming an artist and gaining as much knowledge as possible. As time passed I was introduced to works by other artists and eras and each renewed my love of art.

The French Impressionists have been a strong influence on my work as has Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, and Emily Carr, with her powerful images and bold use of color. More recently I have come to know of present day artists who further influenced my style and future goals.

Each of these artists are popular authors, and teachers whose work I find inspiring. Their books are well written, beautifully illustrated and a wealth of information.

Jan Kunz - known for her lively, colorful portraits and florals. She provides easily applied lessons to create successful paintings and encourages students to plan ahead so that the finished watercolor looks fresh and spontaneous.

Roberta Carter Clark - well known for her portraits of children as well as adults. She gives many helpful tips on how to make all your portraits successful.

Zoltan Szabo - known for his many books on watercolor painting. He should be a staple of every watercolor wanna-be's diet with his well written and easily understood instructions that range from paint mixing, composition and design, to palette knife instruction and special techniques.

Edgar Whitney - "a great watercolor teacher of incredible personality and conviction, which raised him above his contemporaries, who literally came to sit at his feet." Known for his "Whitneyisms" which many of his students still quote to this day!