I began using pastels about 8 years ago by taking two classes with Robert Carston. After that, pastels caught my interest and I looked for a pastel artist who’s work inspired me. That turned out to be Alain Picard who I have studied with since 2018 focusing on landscapes or still lifes. I continue studying with Alain while participating in pastel workshops currently with Barbara Jaenicke, Jeanne Rosier Smith, and Liz Haywood-Sullivan.

My interest is in the painterly, impressionistic style of painting. I love using bright, bold colors and marks while infusing my work with the joy I feel when out in nature. I prefer the soft and very soft pastels but will use whatever pastel is right for the piece. I rarely blend my marks. I prefer they stand boldly on their own. I begin with an alcohol wash underpainting on a sanded board or paper. I finish with a spray fixative to set the colors and powder before framing.

My mixed media collages are much more spur of the moment pieces. I have been doing various collage pieces for decades and just use my design intuition when creating them. They are composed of paper images/designs, maps, photos, postcards, stickers along with various small 3D items. I build my collages from a central image or theme and use items that enhance the composition. The pieces are unframed due to the 3D element but could certainly be framed in a shadow box type frame. They are created on sturdy boards which allow for a firm base. 

I live in Lenox in a 220 year old farmhouse and barn, both of which needed restoration. I am the grateful steward of a property with fabulous ledge rocks, woods, gardens and a brook with a waterfall.  I share this beautiful spot with my two dogs and many friends and visitors.