In my “past life,” I was a Special Education teacher in the elementary and middle schools grades in the Bay Area. My favorite part about teaching was providing students with developmental disabilities the resources to express themselves creatively. Plant and animal life were often themes I explored with my students during their lessons.

 

Although my only formal art education was an acrylic painting class in college, I was always interested in design and color, particularly in textiles and home decor as well as fashion. In my current life as a retiree, I decided to join a watercolor class thirteen years ago, taught by Mary Harden, of the Mary Harden School of Botanical Illustration. I found great enjoyment in the meditative, quiet focus of the creative process. Now drawing and painting have become fulfilling hobbies for me. Painting botanicals has also sparked an interest in gardening and I now find delight in discovering interesting fauna to both paint and grow. 

 

Over the years, I have experimented with pen and ink, colored pencil, ink wash, gouache, silverpoint, and watercolor. My favorite style has become pen and ink, embellished with watercolor. Because of my love of color, I especially love creating exciting new color mixtures with watercolor. Watching how the water and paint evolve together on blank paper is pure magic.

 

I have participated in several art shows in the Bay Area with my fellow students. I am an active member of ARTinc and Hayward Arts Council. I enjoy activities within the local art community including participating in group exhibits.

 

I live in Castro Valley, CA with my husband, Bill, also a retired teacher. I take great pleasure creating beautiful pieces to share with my family and friends.