About the Artist
I began painting in watercolor in 1983. I took my first drawing and painting class at San Francisco State University to fulfill a graduation requirement, and found that I was more interested in my art class than in my major. I kept painting, but didn't take another art class until 1991. I studied watercolor with photo-realist painter Jim Torlakson in the early 1990's, and with his encouragement I began to paint seriously. In 1999, I was awarded a one year scholarship to the Academy of Art College in San Francisco. I attended the AAC in 2000-2001, and fulfilled my dream of attending art school. After staying home for ten years raising my kids, it was very exciting to attend art classes in downtown San Francisco.
I paint from photos I've taken while in Hawaii and at home in California. Sometimes I combine many photos to create my composition. Lately, the focus of my painting has been tropical flowers and still life. I try to capture the grace and beauty of my subjects, and hope viewers of my paintings can share in the happiness they bring me. My goal is to make my paintings look alive.
I began participating in local art festivals in 2005, and really enjoy them. It's like having my own art gallery for a weekend. Check my show schedule for upcoming festivals.
I've been teaching watercolor classes in Pacifica since the fall of 2005. I've been teaching three day watercolor workshops on various subjects such as painting flowers and koi. I have also been invited to give watercolor demonstrations for several art leagues and associations. I am available for both demonstrations and workshops.
I've been submitting my paintings to juried watercolor exhibitions around the United States. Check my exhibitions page for a list of exhibitions and awards. If you scroll through my artwork, the accepted paintings are noted. I have earned signature membership in both the Northwest Watercolor Society and Watercolor West in 2009.
Thank you for visiting my website. I hope you enjoyed my artwork!