Tell us a little bit about your journey as a developing artist.

I learned about oils when I was in high school, and that’s when I started painting on my own. Then I started taking classes with a professional artist through the 70s. Then life happened and I stopped painting for myself, but I advocated for art for children in the state. Arts advocacy became my passion, and I was lucky enough that I was recognized as a spokesperson in the state for arts advocacy. It wasn’t until my mom passed I decided I needed to take care of myself and make my art again. And I was looking around and discovered One River, and it fit my needs.

Which has been your favorite project to work on at One River and why?

I always paint landscapes. But my favorites might be my daughter’s wedding bouquet.

Describe One River in 3 words and tell us why

Creative, open, caring

What would you tell people who’ve never dabbled in art making are the real benefits to trying it?

Art gives you a place to explore your inner self. It gives you the opportunity to see things in a different way. Any time you’re creative, it feeds into all of your intelligences and hones in on them. People don’t realize how important art is to all education and intelligence. There are studies that show that art regenerates brain cells. I find painting very relaxing and peaceful. It’s my happy place. I neglected it for too long while taking care of other people.