I was born in Los Angeles and moved around throughout Southern California during my early childhood. I remember copying characters from a Katy Keene comic book. I always had a note pad and something to draw with wherever I went. Drawing was my constant companion during those early years. As my abilities progressed, I started drawing people and animals. My passion for art never wavered, but external influences directed me towards a more pragmatic career as a young adult. I wanted to major in art at college, but my father strongly advised me that a degree in business would allow greater opportunities. I changed my focus to business. Shortly thereafter, I had to change my focus again as I was raising my three children after marrying a National Park Service Ranger. During this time, we lived in Lassen National Park, Glacier National Park, Washington D.C., and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. While in Washington D.C., I joined an art class instructed by Richard Lahey, former principal of the Cocoran Institute of Art. Professor Lahey played a significant role in how I interpret and approach each of my subjects, specifically managing space whether on paper or canvas. My experience with Richard Lahey had a profound impact on me as an artist. We moved to Boulder City (BC), Nevada where I continued my business pursuit as a commercial real-estate broker. I lived in BC for 10 years raising my family. I later relocated to Redding, California, and entered the Art Program at Shasta College. I was able to reconnect with my love of art with the extraordinary tutelage of the Art Department instructors and staff. I took Life Drawing, Painting, and Print Making. These courses truly inspired me, and the painting classes challenged me to be expressive, tap into the emotions of my paintings, and identify what the piece says about me. I feel that I have grown as an artist during my time at Shasta College. I have had the privilege of doing commissioned work for friends of their beloved animals, capturing those special characteristics of each animal. I have displayed my art at Shasta College, Turtle Bay, and at the State Fair. Today, my paintings are primarily oil based on large canvases. My goal in my paintings is to visibly tell my story with emotion.

I was born and raised in Illinois. I received my BA from Illinois State U. in fine arts. My art took a pause as I moved to California, married, and raised 3 children. In 2005 I started printmaking at Shasta College with John Harper. My drawing and use of oil paint in mono prints inspired my interest in painting on canvas. I took classes from 2006-2021. I continue to paint images of family members, personal experiences, and feelings. I have exhibited at the California State fair, West Coast Biennial, Don Soker gallery in San Francisco, and Shasta College Student Art Show. I continue to paint on both canvas and birch plywood having an interest in conceptual pieces as well. I have several here that are cut outs that you can walk around. I continue to work from my private studio in both mediums in Glen Ellen, CA.