About the artist

I am a Michigan-based artist and educator, working predominantly in watercolor. Drawing and creating were an essential part of my childhood. My grandmother noticed this and continued to encourage and support me as I grew into adulthood. My grandmother’s spirituality, green thumb and love of gardens has been a strong influence in my creative expression. I finds beauty and ideas on my daily walks through neighborhoods and parks, as well as in my own backyard. Perhaps due to my grandmother’s influence, I has always been drawn to nature, marveling at the colors, textures, patterns, and contrasts found there.

I moved to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan School of Art and Design after high school, and, for the most part, stayed. After receiving a BFA and teaching certificate, I spent 32 years teaching art in the Brighton Area School District while continuing to live in Ann Arbor. Drawing and watercolor were my first loves, but while teaching at the high school level, I discovered ceramics and continue to explore this medium as well.

Teaching art brought opportunities for me to explore and research art from around the world and throughout history to inspire lessons I developed. This has brought ideas for my own work, as does the energy and enthusiasm of my students. The wonder of nature and the great beauty found in the little things continue to be a main source of inspiration. As much as I loves to explore and create with a variety of media, sharing my knowledge and experience with others truly brings me joy and motivation.

I continue to teach in my “partial” retirement at the Ann Arbor Art Center, as well as my studio. I am a dedicated and seasoned teacher, and believe all who desire to learn have the ability.