Tell us briefly about your background & how you got started in your medium.

My interest in art started at an early age. At age 16, I took some informal art classes beginning with the basics of charcoal drawing, proceeding to pastels, then into oils. I took elective art courses in high school, attending painting workshops in the ensuing years.

I am a former member of the Perry County Council of the Arts (2019-2023), a current member of the Millersburg Area Art Association since 2024, and a new member of the Susquehanna Art Society for 2025.

What do you like most about your medium?

Working in oils has been my choice of medium because of the vibrancy of colors, the fluidity of application which allows for shading and blending, and a longer workable time frame.

Who or what have been your artistic inspirations?

Pennsylvania artist, Ned Smith, was always in the forefront of artists that I admired. His attention to detail and his subject matter of wildlife and nature had a great influence on my work. I was thrilled and honored to have two paintings on display at the Ned Smith Center for Art and Nature during an exhibit held in early 2020.

Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio?

I have many favorite pieces, but a recently completed piece that is probably at the top of the list right now is called, “Sentinel of the Valley”. It presented some challenges along the way, but I feel I met those challenges and brought it to a successful conclusion! I view it everyday and it’s an uplifting piece.

What would be your advice to artists just starting out in your medium?

Advice to beginners would be to learn from the medium as you go. You’ll discover what the medium will allow you to do. Don’t be afraid to experiment! And, most importantly, ENJOY the learning process. True joy can be found sitting at your easel with paint brushes in hand!

Artist’s Statement –
My interest in art started at an early age. I’ve been painting in oils most of my life starting with lessons as a young girl. I took elective art courses in high school, and then several Adult Education workshops. I am a former Member Artist of the Perry County Council of the Arts (2019-2023), a current member of the Millersburg Area Art Association, and a new member to the Susquehanna Art Society. I’ve participated in many exhibitions which include the State Capitol, William Penn Museum, Ned Smith Center for Nature & Art, and various PCCA Art on Tour locations. I display my artwork at libraries, cafes, coffeehouses and other venues throughout Dauphin and Cumberland Counties on a regular basis and have also exhibited in Perry, Lebanon, Schuylkill and Juniata Counties. My art consists mainly of oil paintings in a variety of subjects, with my main interests lying in the areas of florals, seascapes, landscapes, sunrises/sunsets, birds, wildlife, and recent ventures into art deco and contemporary/modern genre. I also enjoy creating and customizing unique frames so that they complement each art piece. I am thankful every day for being blessed with artistic ability and a creative mind. Sitting at my easel and seeing things come to life with each brushstroke on the blank canvas is truly a joyful time.