I started out creating traditional oil and pastel paintings but have evolved more and more into abstraction using acrylics and collage elements. I’ve always been attracted to bold vibrant colors, and as an artist, I’m always seeking dynamic color combinations. I love experimenting and trying new techniques, materials and abstract interpretations to achieve unique, original paintings. I often start out in one medium but add others as the work evolves.

My goal is to create distinctive uplifting artwork. Vibrant color and texture and many different collage elements can be found in my paintings. I love the fluidity and vibrancy of watercolors and acrylics and love using these mediums. The immediacy of pastels appeals to me along with the ability to achieve clear, vibrant color with them.

I have participated in workshops given by highly respected artists in watercolors, acrylics, mixed media, and pastels including Bob Burridge, Dawn Emerson, Jo Toye, Carol Nelson and Richard McKinley. I was born and raised in Salem, Oregon, and graduated from Oregon State University. After graduation, I lived in West Germany and in several different states, including California, Michigan and Pennsylvania, before returning to Roseburg, Oregon in the Pacific Northwest. I also took drawing and painting classes at Consumnes River College in California.

I have been fortunate to have access to wonderful museums and inspiring art during my travels. Since returning to Oregon, I’ve been able to become active in the arts community. I am a juried member of the Watercolor Society of Oregon, a Master Pastelist in Pastel Artists of Oregon, and am a member of the International Society of Experimental Artists and Umpqua Valley Arts Association. My work has been accepted into numerous juried shows and is in private collections in several states.