The Artist

It seems as if I've always had a pencil in my hand. I'm sure my early drawings were very child-like and crude. But, I was encouraged to continue drawing, as I observed the world around me. As a teenager, my father, a professional photographer, taught me the basics of design and composition. Those lessons instilled in me long ago, inspire me to this day. After art school, I began working as a professional artist in 1987. First, working in watercolor, and a few years later, I turned to painting on silk. Silk painting was a unique form or art back in 1989, and I enjoyed much success in that medium.

I didn't know it at the time, but my life was about to change forever when my first Newfoundland, Bailey entered my life in 1997. I spent many enjoyable hours sketching and drawing him as he slept near me. Without realizing it, I was soon painting him more and more, and before long, found myself entering the world of canine art.

Bailey became my inspiration as well as my best friend. Sadly, Bailey went to the Rainbow Bridge after battling bone cancer in 2005. Nothing is more devastating than to lose a beloved dog. For several months I could not pick up my brush..my boy was not there anymore. But, now...Watson, my beautiful Newf puppy, has taken over the difficult to fill spot left by Bailey. Watson taught me to laugh again, and to paint again. He too, like Bailey inspires my artwork.