I grew up in a small farming town in Minnesota where I found my inner artistry. I wasn’t good in school; I was shy and didn’t have many friends. The only thing that saved me was art. I was good at it and got good grades. I had a wonderful, but quirky art teacher who always introduced us to new materials and projects. I was happy and thrived in this environment, relating well to my fellow artists. I guess we all felt different.

My father never supported my art as a way of making a living. He was very conservative and traditional and believed one must get a real job; I guess he was right. After school and the military, I got a job that allowed me to get a pension. Beginning in 2002, I moved to Oregon with my best friend and husband where I immediately began making artistic connections.

Art classes in California were always full, so, I was accustomed to waiting. However, I went to check out an art class in Myrtle Creek. The teacher was a talented artist working in oils. She said to me, “Where’s your stuff?” So, I went back home and gathered my things and started to paint that day. I learned quickly and made many long-lasting friendships. I was in my element.

I went on to take classes from many talented, supportive teachers where I was stimulated by the creative environment. I met a friend in class who called me up and invited me to go to a garage sale of an artist who had passed away. There were many great things to buy and I was able to connect with more artists. A few years later, I was flattered to be invited to join an artist’s co-op. That was the beginning of a nine-year relationship with some great friends and fellow creators.

My artwork varies a lot depending on what gets me going. I like to change things up and often work on three pieces of the same subject, but on different papers, paints and methods of application. I love to experiment with color, texture and things one would not think of as art supplies. I love to work around others; it’s always fun. I have taught workshops on batik and working on vinyl paper. For me, teaching is kind of a party. I can’t believe that I am so blessed to work around so many creative and fun people; moving to Oregon has been life changing.