I am intrigued by man-made forms, often contradicted or balanced by the natural environment. My paintings include rural landscapes, urban scenes, seascapes, and close-up views of the same subjects. I prefer the dramatic lighting found at dawn, sunset or in unusual weather conditions, which brings out the extraordinary beauty of ordinary objects. I often paint a subject first from a distance and then close up, so that the viewer may gradually become a participant in the experience. To study my subjects, I often create small plein air pastel paintings, or watercolor sketches in hand-bound watercolor sketchbooks, and then use these paintings along with photographs as references for larger paintings.

After graduating from the University of Oregon’s school of architecture in 1984, I was introduced to colored pencils and worked with them exclusively for the next 15 years. After illustrating a children’s book with colored pencil, I decided to explore mediums that would allow me to work faster, and make changes more easily. In 2004, I took my first pastel lesson from a friend, and simultaneously studied watercolor and oil painting. I wasn’t sure which medium I would choose, but I knew I wanted to explore the rich colors and wonderful textures of pastels.. After my painting, “Chiara”, was accepted into the Pastel Journal competition in 2010, I rewarded myself with a large set of pastels. It included wonderful muted colors, as well as intense colors. This was a turning point in learning to paint with pastels. I did not make a conscious decision to work with pastels. They chose me. When I see a subject that inspires me, I often envision it as a pastel painting.

I love teaching at my studio in Vicksburg, Michigan, as well as other locations. I am a member of the Great Lakes Pastel Society, the Northern Indiana Pastel Society, a Signature Member of the Pastel Society of America, and have achieved Master Circle status with the International Association of Pastel Societies.

I am represented by: EastEnd Studio and Gallery in Marshall, Michigan, Sychronicity in Glen Arbor, Wandering Oaks Fine Art Gallery and Dragonfly Gallery.