I grew up on a small farm in western Washington.  As a child, my day was filled with exploring creeks, forests, and farm animals.  Toys were a momentary thing made from the products of those explorations.  So, it is not surprising that such experiences gave birth to my creative process.  That’s where it all began. I remember early creations and creative ideas that grew into an entity that could not be ignored.  “I loved to make art!”

The first official recognition of that bent was from a work created in high school, a linoleum block print in 1952.  It won the first prize in printing and the Grand Prize for the show. From that point on my curiosity would not be quieted. I paint because it beckons me down a path of exploration and understanding in this complex world.  It is my continuing education. I even I painted the studio floor. My studio is my muse and reminder to press on.

Scholarships from that prize took me to college for two years as an art major.  Then it dried up. Seeking another source of funding for education my art was sidelined.  The detour took me to nursing and anthropology and into the Southwest, where the light is magical, and everyone seems to be an artist or an anthropologist.  Art was front and center again!  What rose through the mists of other worlds was my renewed focus on art classes, workshops, mentoring, competitions, docent work at the Museum of Art and History, and a large group of kindred souls.  I painted my ideas and sensibilities, entered art competitions, and often won top prizes, encouraged others, and served the art community.

The rewards came in.  My work has been shown all over the country and has won prizes at the New Mexico MasterWorks competition, the Texas and Neighbors Regional show, among others, and is featured in the Encaustic Art Institute's permanent collection.  I have also been selected as a Local Treasure and honored as a Living Legend.