Artist Statement

I fell in love with the desert as a child, when my family moved to Monument Valley. When my grandmother visited and l watched her paint, l knew that I had to learn!

Years later, when a health problem forced me to give up maternity nursing, l took up oil painting. I was living in the Napa Valley and painted many vineyard scenes, but enjoyed painting from my photos of the Southwest much more.

In 2000, l closed Avalon Gallery in Yountville, CA and moved to Aztec, NM. I was home again! I painted with a plein air group for several years, but now l usually paint from my vast array of photographs.

Recently, I've focused more on photography, and hand painting enhancements on photos printed on canvas.

I've taught several others to paint while encouraging individuality. I am largely self-taught because so many instructors want their students to paint just like they do. I strive for the unusual perspective and enjoy watching people's reactions.

Some ask, "Why did you paint the back end of a cow?" Others say that the cow painting is their favorite. I paint what inspires me, not focusing on what might inspire someone else.