My father told me that I could be whatever I wanted if I worked hard and practiced. Since then I have studied books, videos, and attended workshops whenever I could. I studied drafting in college and worked as a mechanical engineer until my husband and I moved to Alaska. Thanks to the limited distractions 350 miles from civilization, I have time to raise my children and paint.

During the summer I spend most days (rain or shine) exploring Bristol Bay with my kids. They play in the water or climb cliffs while I paint or photograph. In the past I was spending 30 minutes to an hour on a small watercolor, but last summer I worked more directly with oil paints from life. We spent four to six hours in one location while I attempted to capture a scene. There might have been one sketch I did this last season that didn’t have dirt or grass in it thanks to the help of my little sweethearts. We bring bug jackets, bug spray and a picnic lunch, the perfect way to spend the summer. I decided that painting after my kids have grown is going to be boring. During one outing, somewhere in the middle of many distractions, the paint got away from me. I had it all over my bug jacket, hands, skirt, and shirt. Then wouldn’t you know it, my husband showed up with his friend to see if I wanted to go clam digging and saw me covered in oil paint.

In November 04’ I was able to study with Tony Ryder in Seattle for two weeks, right now I’m looking forward to two weeks in Scottsdale, AZ. The first week will be watercolor with Stan Miller, the second week will be quick sketching in oils with Kim English. Every minute of time I’ve had with different teachers has been so valuable to me, I’m very excited for the privilege of more instruction.

November of 05’ I had my first gallery showing as the featured artist for Picture Alaska Art Gallery in Homer. I was very nervous, but Lynda made it a beautiful evening and has invited me back in July.

Renea Zosel, the author of “Juvenile Diabetes, an Emotional Journey”, has asked me to illustrate another book for her. The first one I did all graphite drawings, this one will be all charcoal drawings.

The year 2006 looks to be filled with many more exciting adventures, I can’t wait.