About
At work in my studio on a painting from the Cleveland Botanical Gardens.
        Pastel demonstration at the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio
   
    Drawing and painting has always been a way of life for me for as long as I can remember. Upon discovering my Grandmothers oil pastels at a young age, I knew I was hooked and have been creating art ever since. I've always known that art would be my career choice. I took art classes all through high school, combined with private lessons. From there I received formal training at the Cleveland Institute of Art earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration and painting. From my home studio, I teach private and small group art instruction. It gives me great satisfaction to see students with a genuine passion and dedication develop their talent. 

    I paint what I enjoy and inspiration comes to me in many forms. It may be how sunlight casts shadows on a particular object in nature, lyrics to a song, an inspirational quote, the detail in the hair of an animal and my own imagination. My images are bold with emphasis on color and contrast, combined with a strong light source. I feel the need to have my work jump off the page and I love the challenge of making something look three dimensional on a two dimensional surface. I enjoy many different mediums but prefer acrylics and pastels. I've always been a painter at heart and am at my best when in front of a canvas.

    My goal as an artist is to portray beauty not turmoil. There are so many wonders in this world and I am continuously inspired by them.
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