Let me start by saying that my mother was a very talented artist, so hopefully I inherited some of her ability and love of art. Back in the 1980's when my three children were small, I took some adult education classes in oil painting and did several landscapes. Then life happened....and until my retirement in 2012, I didn't do much painting. My mom passed away in 2009 and I inherited all of her art "stuff" which included every medium imaginable. I experimented with most of them, but found that I could do the best with oils and acrylics.
Spending the winters in Florida lent itself to many opportunities to learn more about painting and the time to spend to create. I joined the wonderful Sebastian River Art Club where I have met many talented artists and have been able to take many different classes. I now belong to the Vero Beach Art Club and am Treasurer of the Lagoon Artisans of Barefoot Bay. I ebjoy all forms of art, but I am especially intrigued by portraits. I am always taking classes to improve and each portriat I paint, I feel like I was able to look into the soul of that person.
When I do a commissioned art piece, I start with a photo provided by the client. I do not need a hard copy. I usually put the photo on my computer so I am able to zoom in close for details. Here is a portrait that was done using three different photos of four children in progress and the finsihed painting.
Although portraits are my favorite, I also do many landscapes. I love looking for bright colors. Here is a building in progress and the finished painting.
I have participated in the Sebastian River Art Club "Art in the Park" many times and won a third place in the oil category of the painting below "Guarding the Sea". The painting was bought by a couple from Virginia who owned two Golden Retrievers.
