I create original oil paintings and fine art prints of landscapes, flora, and unique pet portraits. My oil paintings explore color, composition and texture. When I see a subject that interests me, I always take photographs to capture the moment and record my thoughts. I usually compose images in my sketchbook or on the computer. I decide what size suits the image I want to paint. I then begin by making my own custom-sized wood panels to get the exact proportions I want. I like to apply a base color before painting. I choose this based on what the painting is and what will look nice peeking through the top layers. Then I apply thicker paint in slightly exaggerated colors. I like texture in my work and use a palette knife and brush, along with a scraper. The scraper allows me to draw into or remove some of the top layers of paint and expose the underpainting. My studio is outside of Washington DC in Northern Virginia.

I started being an artist when I was small. My mother and grandmother were always busy gardening, baking, plus making quilts and clothes. I learned to value aesthetics from them. After I was married, I decided to major in fine art. Since my husband was in the military and we frequently moved, I attended several schools. I ended up concentrating in photography. The skills I learned in the photography classes greatly influence my painting. I learned strong composition skills and I am attracted to scenes with dramatic lighting. Upon the birth of my son, and later my daughter, I chose to put my art interests on hold so I could concentrate on being a mom. Now that my children are getting older, I have more time to devote to my creative interests. I am currently studying at the Art League with Diane Tesler in addition to painting in my home studio. My interests in art stem from my surroundings. I am inspired by nature, objects I find, and my love of animals. I started painting dogs and cats when we fostered a dog and I wanted to raise money to help the animal rescue organization. I continued to paint more adoptable animals and take commissions for pet portraits. I donate proceeds from these sales to animal rescue organizations.