I grew up in rural West Virginia where many saw only ugliness and poverty. Because my family encouraged me to look for the best in everything, I saw beauty. As a child, my toys were handmade by my parents and grandparents – handmade dolls with handmade dresses, whittled whistles and spinning tops. Although I didn’t know it at the time, I was surrounded by art in its purest form.
My drive to create beauty through painting exists because of those who guided me through childhood. They taught me to enjoy the simple things of life that are free to all of us if only we’ll pause and look.
My paintings are executed in pastel, watercolor, and oil and encompass all subjects. While I enjoy painting representational art, I am just as likely to create completely conceptual paintings based on a moving piece of music, the feeling of a misty morning, the beauty of a moonlit night or the sparkles on a pond. My paintings are my view of the world, presented without preconceived ideas of what art should be.
Although I have taken private art lessons and participated in many workshops, I believe that the best way to enhance one’s artistic skills is to regularly associate with other artists. I, therefore, co-founded the Southern Colours Art Association, am a Member of Excellence and past president of the Southeastern Pastel Society, and a member of Kudzu Art Zone. All three organizations constantly reward me in immeasurable ways.
