Artist Biography
Primarily a self-taught artist, I began drawing when I stopped eating my crayons as a pre-schooler. Fascinated by horses, they were my mane subject until I sketched Springsteen from his album cover, and then dogs happened. Few years later came commissions for cars, motorcycles, anything I can photograph for reference. Juried into three annual shows in suburban Philadelphia, this led to features in four publications. My go-to medium is colored pencil, followed by graphite, acrylics, oils, and … I admit this fully … Sharpies and glitter pens. I have worked in several galleries and enjoyed the experience, First Fridays, meeting clients, and picture framing. Originally from Springfield VA, moved to the Philadelphia area in 1992 where my four adult children live. Yes I’m an Eagles fan. Four years in Ft Myers FL, and now loving my home in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia where my great-grandparents are from. Excited to re-establish myself as an artist in West Virginia where the opportunities are far more than I expected. Still awaiting my first Big Foot siting.
Artist Statement
My wish, as an artist, is for my artwork to give happiness to the viewer. Whether it be a portrait of something or someone that holds a place in their heart; or a piece that I put my soul into; breathe love into; letting the colors, subjects, or objects light up a somber mood resulting in a smile, a smirk, or even a what the heck?!
Life creates challenges, these challenges change not just ourselves, but our methods of creating artwork. Like many, this happened to me resulting in two distinct styles. The realistic style I prefer for portraits, and a very colorful, imaginative, sometimes unexplainable style. Every artist leaves a small piece of their soul in their creation. I wish to leave not just a bit of my soul in my work, but my love and joy to share with the viewer.