Artist Statement
I am a watercolor artist deeply inspired by the majestic beauty of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Based in Olympia, Washington, I create detailed, representational realistic watercolor paintings that bring the natural world to life. From majestic landscapes and rugged seascapes to delicate florals and wildlife, each original piece is hand-painted on premium, archival 100% cotton paper. Every piece I create tells a unique story. Through my art I aim to invite viewers to pause, connect deeply, and experience the same sense of joy that inspires me.
My creative journey has been shaped by my rich and varied life experiences and is reflected in my watercolors. Living between a freshwater pond in my front yard and Puget Sound behind my home—surrounded by flowers, gardens, fruit trees, pollinators, and wildlife—provides endless inspiration.
Art has been a constant thread throughout my life, expressed through drawing, ceramics, dance and choreography, singing across genres (rock, spiritual, and classical), as well as sewing, needlework, interior and graphic design, acrylic painting, and creating vibrant floral arrangements.
During the COVID lockdown, I discovered a deep passion for watercolor, immersing myself in multiple intensive schools, academies, and courses. I continue to refine my skills by studying with master artists who bring diverse approaches to representational and realistic painting. My influences include Canadian Artist Carol Evans and Jessica L. Bryant, my teachers Tracy Lizotte, Krysztof Kowalski, Bradley Hendershot and Jessica L. Bryant and the timeless work of masters such as Andrew Wyeth, Maxfield Parrish, François Millet, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
Biography
Before retiring in 2023, I had a long and diverse career as a physical therapist, PT assistant professor, professional opera singer and opera company Executive Director, and as a volunteer art appreciation teacher and coordinator of "Art Smart" in Florida and Texas at my children's elementary schools. Born and raised in the South (Florida and Georgia), I lived all over the US and Germany before moving to southern Oregon in 1999 and then Olympia in 2019.
Affiliations
I’m a member of the Olympia Art League, Peninsula Art League and the Northwest Watercolor Society.
Honors
Accepted into "Around the World Art Exhibition" at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts January 7 - February 21, 2027.
Accepted into 2026 Proctor Arts Fest.
Accepted into the 2026 Peninsula Art League Juried 40th Annual Summer Festival.
My watercolor/gouache painting "Point Wilson Lighthouse" was accepted into the 2026 Collective Visions Juried Art Show. 130 pieces were selected from 700 entries.
Accepted into the 2025 Juried Bellevue Art Museum Summer Arts Fair, the largest Arts and Crafts show in the Pacific Northwest.
My painting “Midwinter Morning” was accepted into the Power of Color Juried Art Show and Exhibit at the Fogue Studios and Gallery in Seattle in spring 2025.
My first Art Competition entry “Puffins on the Edge” won 3rd place at the 2024 juried Thurston County Fair Art Show Watercolor Division.
