About the Artist

I moved from Ohio to Phoenix in the late 1970s where I began oil painting and teaching art at different studios throughout the Phoenix area. I enhanced my art education with an additional year of studio art at Northern Arizona University in 1985. In 1990 I became highly allergic to the oil paints and solvents and made the decision to return to school in psychology. I completed my Master’s and then my Doctorate and practiced with my husband for over 25 years in Sun City, Arizona.

In 2014 while preparing for retirement, I returned to playing the violin which I had done in my youth. I then volunteered for over 6 years in numerous Memory Care facilities throughout the West Valley as well as participating in the Phoenix Renaissance Orchestra. When the COVID pandemic arrived in early 2020 I was no longer able to do that. But last summer my dear friend introduced me to “Water Mixable Oils” and WOW that has changed my life, by allowing me to return to oil painting. No smell, no fumes and I can work in my studio every day.

My days are filled with violin practice in the morning and painting in the afternoons. As my friend says, “I am one of the few she knows who is enjoying her lockdown at home.” I am influenced by the master painters of the 18th and 19th century and remain a realist in my work. Alla Prima, direct painting and glazing are my areas of interest.