I grew up in in the country side of upstate New York. I was influenced by my great Aunt Mary who painted
landscapes and portraits of homes. I had an art teacher who recognized my interest and gave me my first set of oil paints. I
loved animals and wanted to paint them. I am inspired by their beautiful design, colors and patterns of texture. I believe god created them for our enjoyment and companionship.
I started painting in oils and now paint exclusively in acrylics. It is a medium where I can paint details of the animal thickly, or loosely for the background. It also drys quickly and I can paint in layers of color. I paint in earth tones, blues, greens, the colors of nature.
I go to zoos, wildlife shows, or animal farms, where I can take photographs of them. I even photograph wild animals that meander around my wooded property. I research their natural habitats, their eating habits and ways of living. Then I put these ideas together. I also do portraits of pets trying to capture their personality.
I went to collage to study art and have a B.F. A. I worked at JCPenney for 17 years. While working I decided to go back to my creative side and begin painting again in my spare time. I became active in art associations and entered art shows in Massachusetts and New York, and won various awards. I illustrated posters and programs for art shows in ink. I retired from JCPenney four years ago. So now my time is dedicated painting on a full time basis.
I want to provide a place
where injured or starving animals can thrive. I donate money from paintings and giclee prints to wildlife
rehabilitation centers and animal shelters.
I am now a member of the Association of Animal Artists.
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