Following a 25-year career as an art teacher and school counselor, I pursued my passion for art through workshops and participating in plein air events throughout the scenic Northern Michigan landscape.

I begin each painting with a value study to examine the nuances of shape and value. I am truly inspired and motivated by the natural beauty of Northern Michigan landscapes while painting on location - en plein air - amid our visually rich lakes, fields, and woodlands. Working outside in the crisp northern air and sunlight, with its vibrant hues and shimmering lakes, has given me a deep appreciation and awe for the majestic beauty of God’s Creation.

Besides the inspiriting landscapes of Northern Michigan, I’ve had the opportunity to study with great instructors up north, including Irving Shapiro, Larry Blovits, Cheng Khee Chee, Stuart Shills, Bill Hosner, Pierre Bittar, Tony Couch, Mary Whyte, and recently, Richard Hansen and Kevin Barton.