Being an artist is just one expression of my creative life. As an introverted child, I was most happy doing arts and crafts and even producing backyard carnival events for my school friends. Art was the one subject I excelled in throughout my school years. After high school, I attended 7 different colleges in Northern California concentrating on various principles such as basic art practices, silk screening, drawing, stained glass, architecture, art history, pattern drafting and interior design. Throughout the college era I knew I wanted to be an abstract artist but also loved the impressionists sense of color and light.
During the early 70’s I lived in a commune in a beach town in Santa Cruz, CA. Since I always seemed to have a little quirky way of looking at the world and being influenced by the times, I embraced the hippie lifestyle. It was liberating and fascinating and arts and crafts was a huge part of commune life including tie die, batik, ceramics, Indian beading, macramé and stained glass. I continue to love crafts and it has been a huge plus for my party planning business when I need to create décor to complement the theme.
Since I retired in 2010 I picked up acrylic painting to express myself and bring back the creating side of me instead of the business side. I find it rewarding and frustrating but have continued to be involved in online courses, joined an Art League and show my work at a local art gallery. I learn something every day and can see my transition from slapping paint on canvas to making educated decisions that has improved my work every day while staying in the Bohemian lane of art expression.
My goal is to continue my education in various forms and to sell my work which I have been able to do. I also won a first place award for one of my mixed media paintings! As long as my heart sings with joy while I’m painting I will continue the journey.
Member: Saddleback Art League
Awards:
“Artist of the Month” Saddleback Art League – Sept 2021
“Artist of the Month” Saddleback Art League – April 2022
First Place Award, Mission Viejo Library - June 2023
First Place Award, Mission Viejo Library – April – June 2024
Continuing Education:
Art2Life Academy – Nicolas Wilton
Adele Sypesteyn Academy
