This current body of work in soft pastels grew out of a move at the start of 2020, from California to North Carolina. Following a decade of intense work in coiled pine needle basketry, I was in the process of unwinding from a long career in nursing. Landing here in Chapel Hill I was overwhelmed by the lush landscape and quickly began searching for a medium to describe it. In November of 2020 I bought my first pastel set and sanded papers and fell in love. Over time I have developed a mostly representational approach to earth and sky, reflections in water, and massive storm clouds, though at times I may use non-traditional methods to achieve my goal. I am always seeking to understand the complex relationships between color, light, composition, and the emotions they evoke.
My parents encouraged me in the arts from early childhood, recognizing my passion. Despite the desire to be an artist, I followed my second passion to become a nurse. While working and raising my family I obtained my BFA in Studio Arts at UC Davis in California. I had the honor of studying under many talented artists who taught me not only the mechanics of printing, painting, and photography but also how to open my eyes and see the world around me in color, abstract shapes, shadows, and light. I have carried those lessons forward in this work.
click on the thumbnail pictures below to see the full painting
