I didn't start out to be an artist when I was growing up.  Even though I enjoyed drawing and taking art classes from a young age, after graduating from high school, I enlisted in the Air Force as a Weather Analyst, and spent many years after my enlistment was up pursuing "traditional" jobs.  However, as the years passed, I found myself taking more art classes and spending what free time I could painting.  In 2012, my husband and I moved to California for his career and I decided to pursue an art career full time. Several moves since then, we are now in Colorado Springs, Colorado where I am still at it! 

 I work in oils alla prima using a limited palette because of the depth and freshness I can achieve. I started painting exclusively in a studio, but quickly grew bored with the static environment and results I was getting on canvas.  I have always loved the Master French Impressionists and realized if I wanted to capture even a tiny bit of the light and movement found in their paintings, I was going to have to move outside to paint - so I did!  Painting en plein air has had the added benefit of enhancing my studio work, and my paintings have become more colorful and vibrant because of it.  I am especially drawn to European subject matter after living in England for 6 years, and most recently in Germany for 4 years. Whether it's a beautiful landscape, colorful architecture, or interesting people, I am influenced by scenes that evoke a sense of peace and serenity, celebrating the slower, more deliberate pace of life.  

 My art education began in early childhood when my artist mother gave me plain paper with my crayons instead of coloring books.  I have taken art classes all through school and university, and I have continued my art education most recently through workshops taught by several renowned plein air artists, as well as self-study. 

Associate Member - American Impressionist Society

Associate Member - Plein Air Artists of Colorado